Filament 3D Printing: Pros, Cons, and Best Use Cases

Filament 3D printing is one of the most widely used additive manufacturing technologies. Its affordability and versatility make it a popular choice for engineers and designers alike.

Pros of Filament 3D Printing

Cost-Effective

Filament 3D Printing is one of the most economical 3D printing methods, both in terms of machine and material costs. This affordability makes it accessible for individuals and businesses of all sizes.

Wide Material Selection

Filament 3D printing offers a broad range of material options, for example: PLA and ABS to high-performance materials like PETG and carbon fibre-filled filaments. This versatility allows for the production of parts with varied properties, from flexibility to high strength.

We stock ABS white and black, but are able to offer PLA, ABS, PETG, ASA/ABS, PC/TPU, PA/PET, PPS and Fibre Reinforced, all of which can be sourced quickly from our supplier.

Durable Parts

Many filament materials are robust and suitable for functional prototypes and end-use parts. For example, ABS and PETG are commonly used for components that need to withstand mechanical stress or heat.

Cons of Filament 3D Printing

Lower Resolution

Compared to technologies like Polyjet and SLA, Filament 3D Printing produces parts with lower detail and visible layer lines. This may limit its use for applications requiring fine aesthetics.

Post-Processing

Sanding or smoothing may be required to improve surface finish, adding time to the process. Additionally, painting or coating may be necessary for certain visual prototypes.

Limited Intricacy

Complex geometries with overhangs can be challenging, often requiring support structures. These supports may affect the surface quality and require additional time for removal.

Applications of Filament 3D Printing

Prototyping

Ideal for testing form, fit, and function at a low cost. Engineers often use Filament 3D Printing to validate designs before moving to higher-end technologies for final production.

Tooling and Fixtures

Durable materials make Filament 3D Printing suitable for creating jigs, fixtures, and assembly aids. These tools can improve efficiency on production lines or during assembly processes.

Custom Parts

Engineers and hobbyists alike use filament printing for custom components and functional parts. From replacement parts to unique designs, it is highly versatile for low-volume manufacturing.

Summary

Filament 3D printing strikes a balance between cost and performance, making it an excellent choice for prototyping and functional parts. While it may lack the fine detail of other technologies, its affordability and material range make it a reliable option for a variety of applications.

Talk to us

Contact us on 01763 249760 to discuss your requirements.

Ready to get started? Get an instant quote for SLS, SLA and DLP 3D printed parts using Matrix. For all other requirements, please click here to request a quote.