3D printing has revolutionized the way we create and manufacture products. With the ability to print almost anything from toys to car parts, it’s no wonder why 3D printing has gained so much popularity. However, one important factor to consider when using a 3D printer is the cost of the plastic material used to create the objects.
The cost of 3D printer plastic can vary depending on the type of plastic used and the brand of the filament. Generally, the cost of 3D printer plastic ranges from $20 to $50 per kilogram. While this may seem expensive, it’s important to note that the cost of 3D printer plastic has decreased significantly over the years due to advancements in technology and increased competition in the market. Additionally, the cost of 3D printer plastic is significantly less than the cost of traditional manufacturing methods.
When considering the cost of 3D printer plastic, it’s important to also consider the quality of the plastic. Cheaper 3D printer plastic may result in lower quality prints, while more expensive filaments may produce higher quality prints with better durability. It’s important to find a balance between cost and quality when choosing a 3D printer plastic, as this will ultimately affect the final product.
What is 3D Printer Plastic?
3D printer plastic, also known as filament or 3D printing material, is the raw material used by 3D printers to create three-dimensional objects. It is a thermoplastic material that is melted and extruded through a nozzle to create the object layer by layer.
There are many types of 3D printer plastic available, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. Some of the most common types include:
- PLA (Polylactic Acid): A biodegradable and environmentally friendly plastic that is easy to print with and produces high-quality prints.
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): A strong and durable plastic that is commonly used for making toys and household items.
- PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol): A clear and strong plastic that is resistant to impact and heat.
- Nylon: A strong and flexible plastic that is commonly used for making functional parts.
3D printer plastic comes in a variety of colors and sizes, with the most common sizes being 1.75mm and 3mm. It can be purchased in spools or reels, with the amount of plastic per spool varying depending on the manufacturer.
The cost of 3D printer plastic varies depending on the type, color, and manufacturer. On average, a spool of 1kg of PLA filament costs around $20-$30, while ABS filament costs around $25-$35 per spool. However, prices can vary widely depending on the supplier and the quality of the filament.
In conclusion, 3D printer plastic is a versatile and affordable material that allows users to create a wide range of objects using a 3D printer. With a variety of types, colors, and sizes available, it is easy to find the right filament for your project at a reasonable price.
Types of 3D Printer Plastic
When it comes to 3D printing, one of the most important things to consider is the type of plastic filament that you will use. There are several different types of plastic that are commonly used in 3D printing, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular types of 3D printer plastic.
PLA
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is one of the most popular types of 3D printer plastic. It is a biodegradable plastic made from renewable resources such as cornstarch and sugarcane. PLA is easy to print with, has a low melting point, and produces a glossy finish. It is also environmentally friendly, making it a popular choice among eco-conscious 3D printing enthusiasts.
ABS
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is another popular type of 3D printer plastic. It is a strong and durable plastic that is resistant to impact and heat. ABS is commonly used for printing functional parts, such as gears and enclosures. It has a higher melting point than PLA and produces a matte finish. However, it can be more difficult to print with and emits fumes that can be harmful if not properly ventilated.
PETG
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is a versatile 3D printer plastic that combines the strength of ABS with the ease of printing of PLA. It is a clear, strong, and flexible plastic that is resistant to impact and heat. PETG is commonly used for printing objects that require strength and flexibility, such as phone cases and toys.
TPU
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a flexible and rubber-like 3D printer plastic. It is commonly used for printing objects that require elasticity and shock absorption, such as phone cases and shoe soles. TPU is also resistant to oil and grease, making it a popular choice for printing mechanical parts.
In conclusion, choosing the right type of 3D printer plastic is crucial for achieving the desired results in your 3D prints. Each type of plastic has its own unique properties and characteristics, and it is important to consider these factors when selecting the best plastic for your project.
Factors Affecting the Cost of 3D Printer Plastic
When it comes to 3D printing, the cost of plastic is an important consideration. The cost of 3D printer plastic can vary depending on several factors, including material type, brand, color, and quantity.
Material Type
The material type of the 3D printer plastic can greatly affect the cost. There are several types of 3D printer plastic available, including PLA, ABS, PETG, Nylon, and more. Some materials are more expensive than others due to their properties, such as strength, flexibility, and durability. For example, Nylon is known for its strength and durability, but it can be more expensive than other materials.
Brand
The brand of the 3D printer plastic can also affect the cost. Some brands are more well-known and established, which can lead to higher prices. However, some lesser-known brands can offer similar quality at a lower cost. It’s important to research and compare different brands to find the best value for your money.
Color
The color of the 3D printer plastic can also impact the cost. Some colors may be more popular or in higher demand, which can lead to higher prices. Additionally, some colors may require more pigment or additives, which can increase the cost of production.
Quantity
Finally, the quantity of 3D printer plastic can also affect the cost. Buying in bulk can often lead to lower prices per unit, but it’s important to consider how much plastic you actually need. Buying too much plastic can lead to waste and unnecessary expenses.
In conclusion, the cost of 3D printer plastic can vary depending on several factors, including material type, brand, color, and quantity. It’s important to research and compare different options to find the best value for your needs and budget.
How Much Does 3D Printer Plastic Cost?
When it comes to 3D printing, the cost of plastic is a major factor to consider. The price of 3D printer plastic varies depending on the type of plastic, the quality, and the amount you need. In this section, we’ll take a look at the average cost of some of the most commonly used 3D printer plastics.
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
PLA is one of the most popular 3D printer plastics due to its ease of use and low cost. On average, a kilogram of PLA costs around $20 to $30. However, the price can vary depending on the brand, color, and quality of the PLA. Some premium brands can charge up to $50 per kilogram.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
ABS is a durable and heat-resistant plastic that is commonly used in 3D printing. The price of ABS is slightly higher than PLA, with a kilogram costing around $25 to $40. Again, the price can vary depending on the brand and quality.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
PETG is a strong and flexible plastic that is becoming increasingly popular in 3D printing. The cost of PETG is similar to ABS, with a kilogram costing around $25 to $40.
Nylon
Nylon is a strong and durable plastic that is commonly used in industrial 3D printing. The cost of nylon is higher than PLA, ABS, and PETG, with a kilogram costing around $50 to $70.
Other Factors to Consider
In addition to the cost of the plastic itself, there are other factors to consider when calculating the total cost of 3D printing. These include the cost of electricity, the cost of the 3D printer, and the cost of any additional materials such as adhesives or support structures.
Overall, the cost of 3D printer plastic can vary greatly depending on the type of plastic and the quality. However, with some research and careful planning, it is possible to find affordable and high-quality plastic for your 3D printing projects.
Where to Buy 3D Printer Plastic
When it comes to buying 3D printer plastic, there are several options to consider. Here are a few places to start your search:
Online Retailers
One of the most convenient ways to purchase 3D printer plastic is through online retailers. There are several online stores that specialize in 3D printing supplies, including Amazon, MatterHackers, and 3D Universe. These retailers offer a wide selection of filaments in different materials, colors, and sizes. Plus, you can easily compare prices and read reviews from other customers before making a purchase.
Local Stores
If you prefer to shop in person, you may be able to find 3D printer plastic at your local electronics store or hobby shop. Check with stores like Best Buy, Micro Center, or Hobby Lobby to see if they carry filaments for 3D printers. Keep in mind that the selection may be limited, and prices may be higher than what you would find online.
Direct from Manufacturers
Another option is to purchase 3D printer plastic directly from the manufacturers. Many filament companies, such as Hatchbox, eSun, and Proto-Pasta, sell their products through their own websites. This can be a good way to get high-quality filaments at a reasonable price, especially if you are looking for a specific material or color.
Other Considerations
When shopping for 3D printer plastic, there are a few other things to keep in mind. First, make sure you are buying the right type of filament for your 3D printer. Check your printer’s manual or manufacturer’s website to see what types of filaments are compatible. Second, consider the quality of the filament. Cheaper filaments may be more prone to clogging or breaking, which can lead to wasted time and money. Finally, be aware of shipping costs and delivery times if you are ordering online. Some retailers offer free shipping for orders over a certain amount, while others may charge extra for expedited shipping.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of 3D printer plastic varies depending on several factors. The type of plastic used, the brand, and the quantity all play a role in determining the final cost. However, we can make some generalizations about the prices of 3D printer plastic.
For example, PLA filament is one of the most affordable 3D printer plastics available. It typically ranges from $15 to $30 per kilogram, making it an excellent option for beginners or those on a tight budget. ABS filament, on the other hand, is slightly more expensive, with prices ranging from $20 to $40 per kilogram.
Specialty filaments, such as flexible or glow-in-the-dark, can be significantly more expensive, with prices ranging from $30 to $100 per kilogram. However, these filaments offer unique properties that may be worth the extra cost for certain projects.
It’s important to note that the cost of 3D printer plastic is just one factor to consider when choosing a filament. Other factors, such as print quality, strength, and durability, should also be taken into account.
Overall, the cost of 3D printer plastic is relatively affordable, especially when compared to the cost of other 3D printing materials. With a wide range of options available, there is a filament to fit every budget and project.
