PEI 9085 vs PLA
Compare PEI 9085 and PLA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
PEI 9085
AUltem 9085
Very strong, stable, and safe superpolymer; low thermal expansion enables good dimensional accuracy
PLA
APolylactic Acid
Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
Detailed Comparison
Property
PEI 9085
PLA
Tier Rating
Tier A
Tier A
Family
PEI
PLA
Nozzle Temp
350-400°C
185-235°C
Bed Temp
120-160°C
50-60°C
Enclosure
required
not needed
Cooling
Minimal
High part cooling usually beneficial
Moisture Sensitivity
moderate
moderate
Strengths Comparison
PEI 9085 Strengths
- Very strong, stable, and safe superpolymer; low thermal expansion enables good dimensional accuracy
- Once setup is met, prints relatively friendly
PLA Strengths
- Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
- Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength
Considerations
PEI 9085 Caveats
- Setup requirements too extreme for S tier
- Cannot print on PEI-coated plate repeatedly (bonding/plate damage risk)
PLA Caveats
- Creeps under sustained load
- Poor heat resistance, UV degradation, can shatter on drops
- Not great for sanding/gluing/painting/touch-ups
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PEI 9085 or PLA better for 3D printing?
PEI 9085 is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to PLA (Tier A). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: PEI 9085 is best for Very strong, stable, and safe superpolymer; low thermal expansion enables good dimensional accuracy, while PLA is best for Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal.
What are the temperature differences between PEI 9085 and PLA?
PEI 9085 prints at 350-400°C nozzle / 120-160°C bed. PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do PEI 9085 and PLA need an enclosure?
PEI 9085: required. PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: PEI 9085 or PLA?
PLA is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.