Comparing PLA and ABS: Pros and Cons of Each Material

Introduction

3D printing has become more accessible in recent years, allowing everyone from hobbyists to professionals to create 3D models and prototypes. With the range of materials for 3D printing increasing, it can be difficult to decide which material to use. PLA and ABS are two of the most commonly used materials, so let’s take a closer look at their pros and cons.

Pros of PLA

Polylactic Acid (PLA) is one of the most popular materials for 3D printing. It is a biodegradable plastic made from renewable resources such as cornstarch, sugarcane, and tapioca roots. PLA is an easy-to-use material that is suitable for beginners and experienced users alike. Here are some of the pros of using PLA for 3D printing:

• Low Shrinkage and Warping: PLA has low shrinkage and warping when printed, which means your prints are less likely to warp during cooling. This makes for better accuracy and higher quality prints.
• Low Odor: Unlike ABS, PLA has a much lower odor, making it more pleasant to work with. This is especially helpful if you’re using a smaller 3D printer.
• Eco-Friendly: As mentioned, PLA is made from renewable resources, making it an eco-friendly choice for 3D printing.
• Easy to Print: PLA is a very forgiving material that is easy to print with. The material sticks well to the build surface and doesn’t require high temperatures. This makes it great for beginners.

Cons of PLA

While PLA is a great material for 3D printing, it does have some drawbacks. Here are some of the cons of using PLA for 3D printing:

• Low Strength and Durability: PLA is not as strong or durable as other materials such as ABS, which means it may not be suitable for functional prints.
• Low Temperature Resistance: PLA has a relatively low melting point, meaning it may deform at higher temperatures. This means it is not suitable for outdoor use.
• Limited Range of Colors: PLA typically only comes in a limited range of colors, which can limit your design options.
• More Expensive: PLA is typically more expensive than other materials, making it less cost-effective.

Pros of ABS

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is another popular material for 3D printing. ABS is a durable and long-lasting plastic commonly used in plastic products such as LEGO bricks. Here are some of the pros of using ABS for 3D printing:

• High Strength and Durability: ABS is stronger and more durable than PLA, making it a good choice for functional prints.
• High Temperature Resistance: ABS has a higher melting point than PLA, which means it can withstand higher temperatures without deforming.
• Wide Range of Colors: ABS is available in a wide range of colors, giving you more design options.
• Cost-Effective: ABS is typically cheaper than PLA, making it a more cost-effective option.

Cons of ABS

As with PLA, ABS also has some drawbacks. Here are some of the cons of using ABS for 3D printing:

• High Shrinkage and Warping: ABS has high shrinkage and warping when printed, which can lead to inaccurate prints.
• High Odor: ABS has a strong odor when heated, which can be unpleasant to work with. This is especially true if you’re using a smaller 3D printer.
• Non-Eco-Friendly: ABS is not made from renewable resources, making it a less eco-friendly option.
• Harder to Print: ABS is a more challenging material to print with and may require higher temperatures. This makes it a better option for experienced users.

Conclusion

PLA and ABS are two of the most popular materials for 3D printing. Both materials have their pros and cons, so it’s important to consider your project before deciding which material to use. PLA is a great choice for beginners, as it is easy to print with and eco-friendly. However, it is not as strong and durable as ABS. On the other hand, ABS is a great choice for experienced users, as it is strong and durable. However, it is non-eco-friendly and has a strong odor. Ultimately, the choice of material depends on your project and what you need it to do.