Introduction
3D printing is a fascinating technology that has been growing in popularity over the years. It allows you to create physical objects by layering material on top of each other until you have the desired shape. Filaments are the materials that are used in 3D printing. While some filaments are safe and easy to use, others can be dangerous and cause health problems. In this blog post, we will be exploring the differences between safe and dangerous filaments, and which one you should use.
Safe Filaments
Safe filaments are easy to handle, produce no harmful fumes, and do not require any special protective gear. Here are some of the most common safe filaments:
PLA
PLA (polylactic acid) is a biodegradable and non-toxic filament that is made from renewable resources such as cornstarch or sugarcane. It is widely used because it's easy to print, has a low melting point, and produces no harmful emissions. PLA is a great choice for beginners or anyone who wants to print objects that don't require high strength or durability.
PETG
PETG (glycol-modified PET) is a popular filament that has similar properties to ABS but is much easier and safer to use. It's a food-safe material that produces no harmful fumes when melted. PETG is a popular choice for printing objects that require strength and durability, such as toys and household items.
TPU
TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) is a flexible filament that is often used for printing objects such as phone cases, shoes, and toys. TPU is a safe material that produces no harmful fumes and is easy to print. It's a great choice for anyone who wants to explore the world of 3D printing beyond rigid objects.
Dangerous Filaments
Dangerous filaments are materials that can be harmful when heated and produce toxic fumes. These filaments require special handling and protective gear to ensure the safety of the user. Here are some of the most common dangerous filaments:
ABS
ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) is a popular filament that is known for its strength and durability. However, ABS emits toxic fumes when melted, which can be harmful to the user's health. ABS requires special ventilation and protective gear such as a respirator to prevent inhaling the fumes.
Nylon
Nylon is a strong and durable filament that is often used for printing objects such as gears, hinges, and toys. However, Nylon emits toxic fumes when melted, which can be harmful to the user's health. Nylon requires special ventilation and protective gear such as a respirator to prevent inhaling the fumes.
Conclusion
When it comes to 3D printing, safety should always be a top priority. Safe filaments are easy to handle, produce no harmful fumes, and do not require any special protective gear. Dangerous filaments require special handling and protective gear to ensure the safety of the user. In general, beginners and hobbyists should start with safe filaments such as PLA, PETG, or TPU. Advanced users who need materials with special properties can explore dangerous filaments such as ABS or Nylon with caution and proper safety measures.