PLA Filament

Polylactic Acid

A
Also known as:Polylactic AcidRegular PLAVanilla PLA
Family:PLA

Why Use PLA?

  • Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
  • Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength

Things to Consider

  • Creeps under sustained load
  • Poor heat resistance, UV degradation, can shatter on drops
  • Not great for sanding/gluing/painting/touch-ups

PLA Variants

PLA+ / PLA Pro

Benefits:

  • + Often tougher/less brittle than plain PLA
  • + Sometimes prints faster or with better layer adhesion

Caveats:

  • - Properties vary widely by brand; treat as a distinct material and re-tune temps/flow

Tough PLA

Benefits:

  • + Improved impact resistance over standard PLA

Caveats:

  • - May trade stiffness and crisp detail for toughness; may need higher nozzle temps

High-speed PLA

Benefits:

  • + Designed for higher flow/volumetric speed without losing strength or finish

Caveats:

  • - Still PLA heat limits; can be more sensitive to cooling/temperature balance

Matte PLA

Benefits:

  • + Hides layer lines; premium appearance

Caveats:

  • - Can be a bit more brittle; color/finish can vary with temperature

Silk PLA

Benefits:

  • + Very glossy, decorative prints

Caveats:

  • - Often weaker inter-layer bonding; more stringing; slower printing preferred

Technical Data

Hardware Requirements

Enclosure
Not Needed
Drybox
Varies
Hardened Nozzle
Not Needed

Bed Surface Compatibility

Textured PEI
Smooth PEI
Satin PEI
Polypropylene
PA/Nylon Sheet
High Temp

Hover over icons for details. Always use proper release agents when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PLA filament?
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a 3D printing filament. Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
What temperature should I print PLA at?
PLA typically prints at nozzle temperatures of 185-235°C and bed temperatures of 50-60°C. High part cooling usually beneficial
Do I need an enclosure to print PLA?
No enclosure is needed for printing PLA.
What is PLA filament best for?
PLA is best for: Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal; Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength.
What are the downsides of PLA filament?
The main considerations when using PLA: Creeps under sustained load; Poor heat resistance, UV degradation, can shatter on drops; Not great for sanding/gluing/painting/touch-ups.