PLA: Renewable Plastic 3D Printing Material

Model rocket built with PLA (Polylactic Acid)

PLA is a thermoplastic made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. It is stiffer and has a lower melting point than ABS and requires less heat to print. PLA can be printed quickly, particularly in fast-draft print mode on the F170 and F370 printers. This enables design concepts to be printed and evaluated quickly.

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Key Attributes

3D model printed using PLA (Polylactic Acid)

PLA retains several qualities which make it a good material for fast printing and initial design validation.

Prints fast and for relatively low cost.
Made from renewable resources.
Non-toxic nature makes it suitable for educational settings.
Available in multiple colors including translucent versions.

Key Applications

PLA applications generally involve situations where fast printing, ease of use, or sustainability are desired.

Prototyping applications, particularly where fast results or many iterations for lower cost are the objectives.
Educational 3D printing opportunities in classroom settings.
Low-volume production for decorative parts and parts that don’t require high strength or impact resistance.

FDM Technology

Industries

All Industries

PLA’s qualities, particularly for concept modeling and non-functional prototyping, make it applicable to any industry that uses 3D printing to develop products or solutions.