What is PLA+ Material? A Comprehensive Guide for 3D Printing

Advantages of PLA+ for 3D Printing

  1. Increased Durability PLA+ is significantly more durable than standard PLA. While regular PLA is known to be brittle, PLA+ offers enhanced toughness and better impact resistance, making it ideal for functional parts or items exposed to wear and tear.
  2. Improved Layer Adhesion One of the standout features of PLA+ is its superior layer adhesion. Each printed layer bonds more securely to the previous one, resulting in stronger, more reliable prints. This makes PLA+ particularly useful for larger or complex prints where strength and stability are key.
  3. Higher Temperature Resistance While PLA has a tendency to deform at relatively low temperatures, PLA+ provides improved heat resistance. Although it doesn’t reach the heat resistance of materials like ABS or PETG, PLA+ performs much better in warmer environments than standard PLA.
  4. Smooth Surface Finish Like regular PLA, PLA+ provides a smooth surface finish, but with fewer issues like stringing and blobbing during printing. This results in cleaner, polished prints with less post-processing required, saving time and effort.
  5. Eco-Friendly Despite the improvements in strength and durability, PLA+ remains biodegradable, maintaining the eco-friendly nature of regular PLA. You can achieve stronger, higher-quality prints while still using a material that’s better for the environment compared to petroleum-based plastics like ABS.
Challenges of Printing with PLA+ Though PLA+ offers many advantages, there are some considerations when printing:
  • Slightly Higher Print Temperature: PLA+ typically requires a slightly higher extrusion temperature than regular PLA. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for temperature settings ensures optimal print quality.
  • Cost: PLA+ is generally a bit more expensive than regular PLA due to the additional additives that enhance its properties.
  • Moisture Sensitivity: Like PLA, PLA+ is hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb moisture from the air. Storing it in a dry environment is crucial for maintaining print quality.
Best Applications for PLA+ in 3D Printing Thanks to its enhanced durability, strength, and temperature resistance, PLA+ is ideal for a variety of applications:
  1. Functional Prototypes PLA+ is an excellent choice for functional prototypes that need to withstand greater mechanical stress. It’s durable enough for testing and iterating designs in real-world conditions.
  2. Consumer Products Its smooth finish and strength make PLA+ perfect for printing consumer goods like phone cases, accessories, and custom gadgets. The improved layer adhesion ensures these products are more durable than those made with regular PLA.
  3. Wearable Items PLA+ can be used to create custom, wearable items such as bracelets, eyeglass frames, or protective gear. Its improved strength and flexibility make it a more reliable option for products that need to be both lightweight and durable.
  4. Household Items PLA+ is well-suited for 3D printing household items, such as decorative pieces, organizers, and functional tools. The enhanced durability ensures these items can endure daily use without easily breaking.
  5. Educational Projects For educational and hobbyist projects, PLA+ offers an easy-to-use material that delivers stronger results. Its eco-friendly nature also makes it a great choice for schools and educational settings focused on sustainability.
How to Successfully Print with PLA+ Printing with PLA+ is relatively straightforward, but following some guidelines can ensure the best results:
  • Extrusion Temperature: PLA+ usually requires a slightly higher extrusion temperature compared to standard PLA. The recommended range is typically between 200°C and 230°C, depending on the brand. Always check the filament manufacturer’s guidelines.
  • Bed Temperature: While PLA+ can be printed without a heated bed, using one set at 50°C to 70°C can improve adhesion, especially for larger prints.
  • Print Speed: PLA+ performs well at moderate print speeds, typically between 40mm/s and 60mm/s. Slower speeds can help achieve better layer adhesion and reduce stringing.
  • Storage: Keep PLA+ filament stored in a dry, airtight container to prevent moisture absorption, which can affect print quality.
Is PLA+ the Right Material for Your 3D Printing Needs? PLA+ is an excellent material if you’re looking for an easy-to-print filament with improved strength, durability, and temperature resistance compared to regular PLA. Its eco-friendly properties, coupled with its enhanced mechanical performance, make it a great option for functional prototypes, consumer goods, and more. At Monk 3D Technologies, we offer high-quality PLA+ filaments in various colors and diameters to meet your 3D printing needs. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional, PLA+ is a versatile and reliable material that delivers strong, high-quality results.

Best Applications for PLA+ in 3D Printing

  1. Functional Prototypes PLA+ is ideal for creating durable functional prototypes that may be subject to stress or wear. Its improved toughness compared to standard PLA ensures prototypes won’t crack or break easily, making it a reliable option for testing parts before moving to mass production.
  2. Toys and Household Items For toys, gadgets, and household items that may be dropped or handled frequently, PLA+ provides better impact resistance. It’s a great option for items that require both durability and an aesthetically pleasing finish.
  3. Architectural Models PLA+ is excellent for printing detailed architectural models or visual aids, thanks to its smooth surface finish and ability to capture intricate details. Its added strength ensures that even fine structures remain sturdy during handling.
  4. Wearable Items Whether you’re printing bracelets, accessories, or other wearable items, PLA+ offers flexibility and durability. The enhanced properties ensure that items won’t break easily under pressure or repeated use.
  5. Educational Models In classrooms or educational settings where models are handled frequently, PLA+ offers the necessary durability to withstand regular use. Its longevity makes it the ideal material for 3D-printed educational tools, models, and learning aids.
How to Print with PLA+
  1. Temperature Settings
    • Extrusion Temperature: PLA+ typically prints at a slightly higher extrusion temperature than standard PLA, usually between 200°C to 220°C. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific recommendations.
    • Bed Temperature: While a heated bed is not strictly required, setting the bed between 50°C to 60°C can help with adhesion and reduce the risk of warping.
  2. Bed Adhesion PLA+ generally adheres well to the print bed, but using blue painter’s tape, a PEI sheet, or applying a glue stick can help with bed adhesion for more complex prints. These methods ensure your print stays firmly in place throughout the printing process.
  3. Print Speed You can print PLA+ at speeds similar to regular PLA, usually between 50mm/s to 60mm/s. Slower speeds for intricate or larger prints can improve overall print quality and ensure better layer bonding.
  4. Post-Processing PLA+ produces a smooth finish right off the printer, but if needed, light sanding or the use of a smoothing agent can achieve an even more polished appearance. This makes PLA+ ideal for projects where aesthetics matter, as post-processing is minimal.
Is PLA+ Right for Your 3D Printing Project? PLA+ is an excellent option for users who want an upgrade from standard PLA, offering improved strength, durability, and heat resistance, while maintaining the ease of printing that PLA is known for. It serves as a middle ground between PLA and more industrial-grade materials like ABS or PETG. If your project involves functional prototypes, household objects, or wearable items that need more strength and durability than standard PLA can provide, PLA+ is the ideal material. It’s versatile, affordable, and easy to print with, making it a popular choice for both hobbyists and professionals. At Monk 3D Technologies, we offer high-quality PLA+ filament in various colors to meet your 3D printing needs. Contact us today to learn how PLA+ can enhance your next project.
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