There is so much anticipation around 3D printing these days and there is so much focus on its development that what started initially as a novelty tool became a great interest in different industries, holding the potential to create drastic changes in various fields. Experts are looking into making 3D printers more advanced to produce customized and innovative designs and products in industries ranging from the environment to aeronautics. Yet, in spite of the popularity of this technology, many are still unaware of how it works, much more its parts; and that includes 3D printing filaments. 3D printing filaments are threads that are used to feed 3D printers and one must learn and understand what they are and how they work to have sufficient knowledge of how 3D printers operate.

Here are some of the basic things you need to know about 3D printing filaments to help you get a grasp of this important 3D printing component:

• There are Different 3D Printing Filament Materials

• Not Only 3D Printers are Compatible With Any Filaments

While it is easy to find filaments and printers, it is not always an assurance that the two are always compatible. Basing on the type of filament material, you need to be aware of what filaments can your 3D printer use. Using an incompatible filament material may cause either undesirable output or a considerable degree of damage to your printer when fed forcibly.

• Different Filaments are Used for Different Outputs

Unlike 2D printing, 3D printing creates real- world objects and since different objects are made of different materials so are the filaments that are used to print them. Some filament types can be used for different purposes but there are some that are recommended for specific outputs. This includes PLA for consumer products, Wood for Home Décor, PLA metal for jewelry, ASA for outdoor products and others. While it is not necessarily restricted to use these particular filaments for specific outputs, they are recommended so as to make sure that outputs are good, durable, and functional.

• Quality is Important When Choosing Filaments

DIY- produced filaments are also available everywhere so as those that are of low quality. Hence, one must be cautious in buying low quality types of filaments as it can greatly affect performance and output. Make sure to buy only those with good quality to make sure your output is as you want it to be.

The right knowledge in 3D printing filaments will help you make the right choices for your 3D prints and help you assure quality output. However, trying to save money by buying filaments with poor quality will only cost you more in the long run as you may need to reprint materials over again.