Wood vs Metal Filament - Which One Should You Choose?
3D printing has come a long way since its inception. Today, there are hundreds of different filaments available on the market. However, wood and metal filaments are often the most popular ones, and for a good reason too. But which one should you choose?
Wood Filament
Wood filament is made from a mixture of wood particles, binding polymers, and additives that give it the wood-like appearance and texture. It is an excellent choice for creating realistic models and prototypes that resemble wood.
Here are some pros and cons of wood filament:
Pros:
- Has an excellent wood-like appearance and texture
- Enables you to print models with wood-like features, such as wood grain and knots
- Compatible with most 3D printers that support PLA filament
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons:
- Can be difficult to print and require specific printer settings to avoid clogging
- Discoloration can occur if the temperature is too high or there is a prolonged exposure to high humidity
- Limited color options are available
- Not ideal for functional or load-bearing parts due to its brittle nature
Metal Filament
Metal filament is made by mixing metal powders with a binding polymer, giving it the metallic appearance and texture. It is an excellent choice for creating realistic metal models and prototypes or adding metallic features to your prints.
Here are some pros and cons of metal filament:
Pros:
- Has an excellent metal-like appearance and texture
- Enables you to print models with metallic features, such as a metallic sheen, weight, or other unique features.
- Excellent for creating functional or load-bearing parts
- High melting point makes it more resistant to heat and impact
Cons:
- Difficult to print and require specific printer settings to avoid clogging
- Limited color options are available
- Abrasive nature can cause extruder damage or increase nozzle wear
- High material cost
Which one should you choose?
Both wood and metal filaments have their pros and cons. However, selecting the best filament depends on several factors, such as the print projects, budget, and the 3D printer's capabilities.
If you're looking to create models that resemble wood, you should consider using wood filament. Similarly, if you want to add metallic features to your prints or generate functional parts, you should opt for metal filament.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both wood and metal filaments offer their unique properties that suit different 3D printing projects. It's crucial to consider the project's requirements and your budget before deciding which filament to use. Remember, always follow the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid any possible damage to your 3D printer or filament.