Choosing the right 3D printing material is critical to your project's success. At PrintVX.com, our engineering team helps designers and engineers navigate material selection for optimal results.
Common 3D Printing Materials
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
Made from renewable corn starch, PLA is biodegradable, easy to print, and the most affordable option. Best for: concept models, visual prototypes, educational use. Limitations: low heat resistance (softens at 60C), brittle under impact.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
Engineering-grade strength with good heat resistance (glass transition at 105C). Requires heated enclosure for printing. Best for: functional prototypes, end-use parts in high-temperature environments.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
The best balance of ease and performance — nearly as easy to print as PLA with much better strength and moisture resistance. Best for: functional prototypes, outdoor applications, food-safe parts.
Nylon (PA12, PA11)
Engineering-grade strength, excellent chemical resistance, and good fatigue tolerance. SLS nylon printing produces isotropic parts with consistent mechanical properties. Best for: functional prototypes, end-use production parts, snap-fits, wear-resistant components.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
Flexible elastomer with Shore hardness 85A-95A. Excellent for grips, seals, gaskets, and any part requiring flexibility and durability.
PEEK (Polyether Ether Ketone)
High-performance engineering thermoplastic rated for continuous use at 250C. Exceptional chemical resistance. Used in aerospace, medical implants, and oil and gas applications.
Metal Materials via DMLS/SLM
Stainless Steel 316L, Titanium Grade 5, Aluminum AlSi10Mg, and Cobalt Chrome available through PrintVX.com metal additive manufacturing services.
Not sure which material is right? PrintVX engineering team provides free material recommendations with every quote. Upload your design at PrintVX.com.
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