PLA, PETG, ABS or nylon? Choosing a 3D printing material for real parts
Choose the material by the part's job: PLA for visual prototypes and low-stress models, PETG for tougher parts with some chemical resistance, ABS or ASA when heat or outdoor UV exposure matter, nylon for wear, impact and snap fits, and carbon or glass-filled nylons for stiff jigs and fixtures. Temperature, load, chemicals and sunlight decide more than price.
Guilherme Rodrigues ItinoseUpdated 2 min read
Key takeaways
- PLA: easy and precise, but soft at modest temperatures.
- PETG: tougher, good chemical resistance, a reliable default for functional parts.
- ASA: handles outdoor UV and more heat than PLA.
- Nylon: wear-resistant and tough; absorbs moisture.
- Fiber-filled nylons give stiffness for fixtures.
“Which plastic should we print it in?” is the question that decides whether a printed part lasts a day or a year.
Quick comparison
| Material | Strengths | Watch out for | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | Easy, precise, good finish | Softens with heat, brittle | Visual prototypes, models |
| PETG | Tough, chemical resistance | Stringing, slightly less precise | Functional parts, covers |
| ABS / ASA | Heat resistance, ASA UV-stable | Warping, needs enclosure | Housings, outdoor parts |
| Nylon (PA) | Wear, impact, flexibility | Absorbs moisture | Gears, clips, hinges |
| CF/GF nylon | Stiffness, dimensional stability | Abrasive, needs hardened nozzle | Jigs, fixtures, brackets |
Questions that decide
- What temperature will the part see?
- Is it outdoors or exposed to chemicals and oils?
- Does it bend, snap or slide?
- How precise must it be?
- How many will be made?
Design for the material
Wall thickness, orientation and infill change strength as much as material choice. Load paths should run along layers, not across them.
We choose materials and print functional parts, jigs and prototypes. See 3D printing.
When to outsource this
- You need a printed part that will actually be used, not just looked at
- Printed parts have failed from heat, sun or wear
When not to
- Loads or temperatures exceed what polymers can handle; consider machining or metal
FAQ
Is PLA strong?
PLA is fairly stiff and strong at room temperature but softens at relatively low temperatures, for example in a car in the sun.
Which material for outdoor parts?
ASA is a common choice for UV resistance; PETG also performs reasonably outdoors.
Why does nylon need drying?
Nylon absorbs moisture from air, which hurts print quality and properties. It should be dried and stored properly.
Can printed parts touch food?
Only with suitable materials, processes and certification. For food contact, consult the material supplier and regulations.
Send us one drawing
We return a review with issues found, suggested fixes and a fixed-price scope.
