FDM 3D Printing Materials: Which One to Choose for Your Project?
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FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printing now offers a wide range of materials suited to a variety of needs—from decorative parts to high-performance industrial components. At 3DVertical , we work with technical and functional materials to meet the needs of businesses, engineers, startups, and enthusiasts.
In this article we introduce you to the main materials we use: Nylon, PETG, ABS/ASA, TPU and PLA .
1. Nylon – Strength and durability
Nylon (Polyamide) is known for its strength, wear resistance and low coefficient of friction .
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Advantages: High mechanical resistance, good flexibility, excellent abrasion resistance.
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Applications: Gears, functional parts, jigs, tools.
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Limitations: Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture), requires a controlled storage and printing environment.
💡 Ideal for: robust mechanical parts and components subject to high stress.
2. PETG – The right compromise
PETG combines the ease of printing of PLA with the strength of ABS.
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Advantages: Good chemical resistance, possible transparency, low shrinkage during printing.
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Applications: Technical parts, housings, parts in contact with water.
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Limitations: Less rigid than ABS, limited heat resistance (~80°C).
💡 Ideal for: technical parts resistant to humidity and moderate shocks.
3. ABS & ASA – Heat resistance and outdoor use
ABS is a classic in industrial 3D printing. ASA , similar to ABS, also offers better UV resistance .
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Advantages: Resistance to high temperatures (~100°C), strength, good impact resistance.
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Applications: Automotive parts, electronic housings, functional prototypes.
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Limitations: Odors when printing (requires a closed box), significant shrinkage.
💡 Ideal for: outdoor applications (ASA) and technical parts exposed to heat.
4. TPU – Flexibility and cushioning
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a flexible and resistant filament.
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Advantages: Flexibility, abrasion resistance, shock absorption.
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Applications: Seals, shock-absorbing parts, soles, protections.
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Limitations: Slower printing, requires a suitable extruder.
💡 Ideal for: parts requiring flexibility and elasticity.
5. PLA – Simplicity and versatility
PLA is the most widely used filament due to its ease of printing.
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Advantages: Easy to print, biodegradable, available in many colors.
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Applications: Models, visual prototypes, decorative pieces.
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Limitations: Low heat resistance (~60°C), less mechanically robust.
💡 Ideal for: rapid prototypes and aesthetic parts.
Conclusion
Each material has its strengths and limitations , and the choice depends on the end use, mechanical constraints and the operating environment.
At 3DVertical , we support you from the choice of material to optimized production , so that your parts perfectly meet your technical and aesthetic needs.