🧵 Section 1: Filament Types (FDM Printing)

FDM printers use spools of plastic filament which are melted and extruded layer by layer. Each filament type has unique properties suited to different applications.

🔶 PLA (Polylactic Acid)

Best for: Beginners, prototypes, aesthetic prints

• Easy to print and widely available

• Low warping and biodegradable

• Not very heat- or impact-resistant

• Melting temp: ~180–220°C

✅ Use case: Miniatures, figurines, decorative items

🔷 ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

Best for: Functional parts, enclosures, automotive

• Stronger and more heat-resistant than PLA

• Prone to warping and requires heated bed/enclosure

• Emits fumes; use in ventilated area

• Melting temp: ~230–250°C

✅ Use case: Drone parts, tool handles, machine housings

🟢 PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)

Best for: Outdoor use, functional parts, food-safe containers

• Combines ease of PLA with strength of ABS

• Water-resistant and chemical-resistant

• Slightly stringy if not dialed in properly

• Melting temp: ~220–250°C

✅ Use case: Water bottles, planters, brackets

⚪ TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)

Best for: Flexible parts, shock absorbers, wearables

• Flexible and elastic

• Requires slow print speeds and direct drive extruder

• May be difficult for beginners

• Melting temp: ~220–240°C

✅ Use case: Phone cases, gaskets, seals, shoe soles

🟠 Nylon (Polyamide)

Best for: Mechanical parts, gears, structural prototypes

• Extremely strong, abrasion-resistant

• Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture easily)

• Requires high print temperatures and enclosure

• Melting temp: ~240–260°C

✅ Use case: Hinges, mechanical parts, tools

📌 Other Filaments (Advanced or Specialty):

• Carbon Fiber Reinforced – Strong and stiff; great for engineering parts

• Wood-Filled PLA – Decorative use; gives a wood-like texture

• Metal-Filled PLA – High-density feel, not actual functional metal

• PC (Polycarbonate) – Very strong and heat-resistant; difficult to print

🧪 Section 2: Resin Types (SLA/DLP/LCD Printing)

Resin printers use liquid photopolymers that harden when exposed to light. Resin types are selected based on desired finish, strength, or special properties.

🟣 Standard Resin

Best for: Prototyping, high-detail models

• Sharp detail and smooth surface finish

• Brittle compared to filament

• Fast and affordable

• Cure temp: via UV light (405nm typical)

✅ Use case: Miniatures, dental models, decorative items

🔴 Tough / Durable Resin

Best for: Functional parts that need strength

• Less brittle, slightly flexible

• Simulates ABS or PETG strength

• Requires slightly longer curing time

✅ Use case: Engineering prototypes, enclosures, snap-fit parts

🟢 Flexible Resin

Best for: Rubber-like parts, seals, soft-touch surfaces

• Bendable and elastic

• Requires careful calibration

• Lower overall strength

✅ Use case: Gaskets, wearable prototypes, custom grips

🟡 Castable Resin

Best for: Investment casting (jewelry, dental)

• Burns cleanly without ash

• Designed to be melted out of a mold

• Expensive and specialty use

✅ Use case: Jewelry molds, dental casting

🔵 High-Temp / Heat-Resistant Resin

Best for: Functional parts that must endure heat

• Withstands up to 200–300°C (depending on brand)

• Excellent dimensional stability

• Expensive and requires post-curing oven

✅ Use case: Molds, injection tooling, engineering components

⚠️ Resin Handling Tips

• Always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area

• Avoid skin contact and wear eye protection

• Use isopropyl alcohol (IPA) for cleaning prints

• Dispose of unused resin and wash properly—do not pour it down the drain

🧠 Quick Recap Table

📂 Resources & Further Reading

• 3D Printing Filament Guide – All3DP

• Formlabs Resin Library

• Filament Drying and Storage Tips – Prusa Knowledge Base