3D Printing has changed the ways of creation, innovation, and how a person brings concepts to action. One of the most praised and versatile materials is PLA (Polylactic Acid). Be it a professional or a “maker”, everyone uses it. There is, however, one critical aspect that aids in the successful execution of prints: The melting point of PLA. Here, we will discuss the science and practical significance of PLA’s melting point, comprehensively detailing its influence on the entirety of the printing process, including the processes, results and success. This complete guide will come in handy for both experienced 3D printing enthusiasts and novices, equipped with tips to help maximize their prints and avoid frequent mistakes.
What is the Melting Point of PLA?
PLA or Polylactic Acid has a melting point that predominantly ranges from 170°C to 180°C (338°F to 356°F). Nonetheless, instead of melting, PLA softens sequentially, which means the exact temperature will differ depending on the mixtion of the material. For 3D printing, it is advised to have the nozzle set at a temperature between 190 °C and 220 °C for the best results.
What PLA means as a Polymer
PLA is a biodegradable polymer made from renewable sources like cornstarch or sugarcane. It is categorized as one of aliphatic polyesters. Its low environmental impact as well as the ease of use when it comes to 3D printing makes PLA a popular choice for beginners and professionals alike. Alongside it’s low melting point and minimal warping, what makes PLA stand out compared to other materials is it’s ability to produce intricate details. Something that people need to consider is that while PLA is promoted as friendly to the environment due to being derived from plants, its true biodegradability is significantly impacted by the conditions of industrial composting.
How the Melting Temperature Affects 3D Printing Materials
The performance and usability of a material in 3D printing is highly connected to the melting temperature of that material. In the case of PLA, which has a low melting point in the range of 190-220 degree celsius, the printing process is more accessible for beginners as it does not require a lot of energy and basic hardware could do the work. Additionally, the risk of warping is lessened with low temperature, and the precision of finer details is enhanced. This makes PLA extremely useful for small or highly detailed prints. But, lower melting points also mean less heat-resistant for PLA prints which limits the these prints to not be useful for applications that involve high temperatures or mechanical stress.
Polycarbonate (PC) or ABS are other materials with higher melting temperature which are in the range of 220 degree celsius to 260 degree celsius and can even go higher. These materials need specialized equipment such as ones with heated beds and printed enclosures that help maintain printing conditions. For example, the melting point of ABS is on the higher side but it also makes the material much more durable and heat-resistant compared to PLA, which allows it to withstand harsher environments. This makes ABS ideal for functional prototypes. On the downside, however, higher temperatures can create challenges like warping or being overly difficult for adhesion without proper conditions.
Also, sophisticated materials such as PEEK and PEI possess remarkable melting temperatures, usually above 340°C. 3D printing these materials is only possible with industrial-grade printers because of their high tendencies to break or yield, therefore they need to be controlled on a temperature level as well as have preheated chambers for consistency. These high-performance thermoplastics are utilized in aerospace and medical fields because of enduring exceptional mechanical and thermal properties, but these primary advantages lead to high costs and complicated logistics.
Ultimately, the choice of a material is largely governed by the equipment at hand, thus understanding the melting temperature greatly aids in the selection process. For instance, PLA is great for starting users or for aesthetic models, but for industrial applications, more complex materials like ABS, nylon, or PEEK, which are more rugged, heat resistant, and durable are required.
Difference Between Glass Transition Temperature and Melting Point
An equally important pair within the set of material properties, especially with respect to 3D printing and material science, are the glass transition temperature (Tg) and the melting point (Tm). Unlike the foregoing, gaps with respect to temperature range, demarcated by certain limits, results, in both are the changes that material undergo in relation to temperature.
The glass transition temperature is defined as the region in which, an amorphous (non-crystalline) material undergoes change from a hard and glassy material into softer and more rubbery one. Like many transitions, this is not a sharp change but a gradual change which often affects the material on the mechanical level. For example, PLA has glass transition temperature of 60 degrees celcius, which means it begins softening above this range making it unsuitable for high-temperature applications considering the low printing temp PLA has.
On the other hand, the melting point is the exact temperature at which crystalline or semi-crystalline material transforms from solid to liquid. The transition from solid state to liquid is sharp and well defined in this case. ABS has a melting point of approximately 200 degrees celcius and high performance materials like PEEK go over 340 degrees celcius. PEEK is used in industries with extreme durability requirements like aerospace or automotive manufacturing because of these high temperatures.
Another important difference is that amorphous materials do not have a distinct melting point. This can be seen in PETG, which has a Tg of roughly 85 degrees celcius and does not posses a well defined Tm.
When choosing a material for 3D printing or any engineering work, it is important to know the difference between Tg and Tm. For example, the material used in areas that get a large amount of heat must have both a high glass transition temperature and a melting point to prevent any deformation or failure.
How Does PLA Melting Point Affect 3D Print Quality?
The melting point of PLA determines the flow and bonding of the material which will affect the quality of the 3D print. The melting point of PLA is between 190°C and 220°C, so maintaining the temps at this range is crucial. Too low of a temperature could lead to weak adhesion of layers and poor inter-layer bonding. If the temperature is too high, overheating may occur leading to unwanted surface textures, stringing, blobs, or rough finishes. Balancing the material’s melting point ensures the layers are strongly bonded, increases adhesion, smoother surfaces, and reliable prints.
Impact on Layer Adhesion and Print Temperature
Layer adhesion and print temperature have a critical relationship, that must be taken into account when optimizing 3D prints. To achieve reliable and reasonable 3D prints, the nozzle temperature has to be set within the recommended range, resulting in the material being easier to pump out and bond forming. For PLA, studies suggest that the best results due to improved adhesion stem from printing at temperatures near 210°C–215°C. However, PLA has a melt point around 220°C and anything passed this point would mean degradation, more fumes, melting plastics release surface quality issue, and being prone to stringing or warping.
Recent research from 3D printing forums and hands on experiments suggest that materials such as ABS require the printing temperature to be set between 230°C–250°C to prevent layer separation because of its higher viscosity relative to PLA. On the other hand, PETG filaments have a narrower ideal range of 220°C–240°C for optimal adhesion without excessive stringing.
Moreover, new innovations in slicer software have included real-time temperature control and monitoring, which aids in solving issues related to inconsistent heat. In combination with cooling parameters —like lowering the fan for the initial several layers— consistent temperature control along with detailed models ensures the precision and strength over time. Users need to balance these factors to optimize print performance and uniform adhesion across intricate multi-layer prints.
Prevention of Warp and Deformation in PLA Prints
Maintaining a stable print environment goes a long way in preventing warp and deformation in my prints. For example, I ensure my print bed is level and heated to around 60 degrees celsius as this helps with adhesion. Whenever possible, I use an enclosure in a bid to reduce drafts and temperature fluctuations. Using good adhesive aids in improving the adherence; applying a glue stick or painter’s tape on the print bed achieves this. Moreover, I reduce the cooling fan speed during the initial layers to avoid uneven shrinkage which in turn allows the print to solidify uniformly. These steps have provided me reliable and high-quality results.
How to Achieve Optimal Tensile Strength and Mechanical Properties
Tensile strength and mechanically of 3D printed objects highly depend on the selection of material, orientation of the print, adhesion of the layers, and any post-processing to be done. Based on recent studies, it is evident that standard PLA and ABS are weaker compared to other materials like nylon, polycarbonate (PC), and carbon-fiber-reinforced filaments which tend to have a higher tensile strength. A good example is with Nylon which has an average tensile strength of 50 MPa, while carbon fiber reinforced nylon can reach over 80 MPa. This makes it ideal for functional parts and mechanical applications.
The print orientation also impacts the strength of the part. Components printed along the vertical or Z-axis are weaker in tension because of limited inter-layer bonding and adhesion. Conversely, mechanical strength is substantially improved when portions are printed along the X or Y axes. Studies indicate that regardless of the applied load, tensile strength becomes critically dependent on the layer’s orientation; it may drop up to 50% if poorly oriented.
Post processing treatment, such as annealing, improves the mechanical properties further by eliminating internal stress and enhancing crystallinity for materials such as PLA and PETG. In 2023, a study showed that annealing PLA at 100-110°C for 30 minutes boosted its tensile strength by 25 percent. These concepts working together display the complexity of achieving strong, dependable prints through material selection, design, and processes. Coupled with precise printer calibrations, some of these approaches can make certain prints withstand the harshest conditions.
What are the Best Print Temperature Settings for PLA?
PLA usually prints best between 190°C to 220°C. Most filaments will work well when the printer is set to 200, but it can be modified based on other factors such as the filament used or the printer itself. It is wise to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and do small test prints with PLA filaments to calibrate the printer’s temperature for quality of print and adhesion strength.
Ideal Setting For The 3D Printer
The ideal 3D printer setting requires a combination of the type of filament to be used, the model of the printer, and external conditions. Different materials come with different temperature requirements, for example; PLA has a range of 190° to 220°, while ABS – 220° to 260°, PETG – 220° to 250°, and TPU – 210° to 230°. The first point of reference before setting the printer should be to the guidelines from the manufacturer, and here are some recommended steps to follow for setting up a printer.
- Guideline From The Manufacturer: Setting the printer according to the recommendations of the manufacturer building set a solid base, however, the lower end of the range may not print properly, for example: premium PLA filaments might need to run above 215°, while eco-friendly options need lower temperatures within the range.
- Conduct the Temperature Calibration Tests: A good way of finding the right temperature is to print a “temperature tower”. It consists of printing a part whose temperature during printing is changed along the height of the part with respect to the Z axis and changing temperatures lets you observe surface finish, stringing, and how well the layers bond together.
- Check your Surrounding Environmental Factors: Print quality can be heavily impacted by room temperature and its humidity as well. For instance, too cold might need higher extruder temperatures to keep the flow level, but high humidity can degrade filament quality over time, resulting in inconsistencies.
- Make sure to check the performance of your prints: The signs of too low a temperature is weak layer adhesion and brittle prints, while overheating is stringing, excess oozing, or blurred intricate details. Make incremental changes to your settings, like 5°C at a time, and observe the results.
- Make a Log of the Results: Documented on logs, set successful temperature settings for every brand and type of filament. This saves both time when preparing for future projects and streamlines the overall process.
With precise adjustments and testing, you can achieve exceptional detail and structure on your prints. Thermal sensors and slicer software recommendations can greatly improve calibration accuracy for any design or material used, ensuring optimal results.
Adjusting for Different Filament Types and Molecular Weight
Considering the different filament types, how the properties (and molecular weight) of a materialen impact the settings and outcomes of printing is vital. For instance, PLA (Polylactic Acid) has a low melting point hence a nozzle temperature of 190°C to 220°C is adequate while ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) needs a higher range between 230°C to 250°C because of its more intricate structure and high melting point.
The molecular weight also significantly determines a filament’s viscosity and flow characteristics. Stronger and durable filaments have high molecular weight; however, they tend to have slower printing speeds and demand higher temperatures to increase layer adhesion.
Recent data suggests that PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is on the rise for its moderate strength and flexibility. The ideal extrusion temperature range is 230°C to 250°C while the bed ought to be set between 70°C to 90°C to avoid warping. Tough nylon, with its high molecular weight, is best printed in a range of 250°C to 270°C with a heated bed of roughly 70°C to 90°C.
Using advanced slicer software along with tuning settings that fit each specific material can yield significant benefits. For example, an enabling feature such as retraction can fix stringing for some PETG prints, while reduction of flow rate can help precision for more complex ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) prints. Coupling these insights with accurate data from iterative testing can make sure optimal results are achieved with various filament types.
Common Problems Associated with Over-Temperature and PLA Prints
Polylactic Acid (PLA) is known for being one of the most user-friendly materials due to its low printing temperature. However, PLA can be printed at temperature ranging between 190 degrees celsius and 220 degrees celsius. Printing PLA at these temperatures can lead to numerous issues that degrade overall print quality. One such problem is filament oozing, which is where excess material leaks during travel moves because the nozzle is heated too high. This creates stringing or even blobs on the print surface. Additionally, higher temperatures result in poor layer adhesion which leads to loss of surface detail or warping if the part is overly hot.
Per the newest reports, printing PLA at temperatures above 230°C can lead to heat degradation where the material starts to emit a sweet, burnt sugar scent. Some other recent references also noted that exceeding the temperature limits for an extended period compromises the strength of the final print. To achieve the best results, it is beneficial to conduct temperature filament tests to determine the ideal setting for your specific sweet spot. Data from repeated testing suggest that most PLAs are reliably printed within the 200 to 210 degree celsius range with adequate cooling.
How Does PLA’s Melting Point Compare to Other 3D Printing Materials?
Compared to many other 3D printing materials, PLA has a relatively low melting point. While PLA has a good melting and printing temperature of around 190°C to 220°C, other materials like ABS tend to use higher temperatures – in the range of 220°C to 250°C. Even more demanding are other materials like nylon or polycarbonate which frequently print above 250°C. PLA’s relatively lower melting point greatly increases it’s ease of printing and expands the amount of standard 3D printers that can use it.
Comparing PLA to PETG and Other Thermoplastics
PLA, PETG, ABS, nylon, and polycarbonate are commonly compared thermoplastics for 3D printing.
| Parameter | PLA | PETG | ABS | Nylon | Polycarbonate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strength | Moderate | High | Moderate | Very High | Very High |
| Flexibility | Low | Moderate | Low | High | Moderate |
| Durability | Low | High | High | Very High | Very High |
| Temp. Res. | Low | High | High | Very High | Very High |
| Printing Temp. | 190-220°C | 220-250°C | 220-250°C | 250+°C | 250+°C |
| Ease of Use | Easy | Moderate | Moderate | Challenging | Challenging |
| Uses | Prototypes | Functional | Functional | Strong Parts | Strong Parts |
Benefits of PLA’s Low Melting Point
The low melting point of PLA (Polylactic Acid) is extremely beneficial because it allows for ease of 3D printing. This is especially helpful for beginners and users of low-end printers. 3D printers melt PLA between the temperatures of 190 and 220°C, which is possible for most consumer printers. The lower temperature also helps reduce energy usage during printing which makes it better for the planet.
The low melting point of PLA helps improve the life of printer nozzles and other components because they experience less heat-related stress than with high-temperature filaments like ABS or polycarbonate. Recent research shows that PLA has become one of the most frequently used desktop 3D printing materials due to its affordability, accessibility, and easy-printing attributes. A report on the global additive manufacturing market highlighted that over 60% of filaments purchased for consumer 3D printing in 2022 were made from PLA.
Finally, the safety of younger students using 3D printers in educational environments is also augmented by the lower melting point of PLA. Unlike more advanced models, the printers in these learning settings may not have sophisticated cooling or heating mechanisms. Even though PLA has the drawback of being unable to resist elevated temperatures, melting, and being distorted under stress, its low melting point greatly improves accessibility and usefulness.
Considerations for Polylactic Acid in Professional Printing
The current use market analysis indicates that PLA 3D printing material still dominates the market. As of 2022, PLA accounts for nearly half of filament sales worldwide, cementing its claim as one of the most utilized materials in 3D printing. Its popularity can be attributed its environmental-friendly features, ease of handling, and low cost. PLA is extracted from resources which can be renewed such as corn starch and sugarcane, which makes it a biodegradable and sustainable material. An incredibly crucial attribute for manufacturers looking to reduce their carbon footprint is that it is nonpollutant.Despite advancements in PLA blends, updated PLA remains brittle with little long-term durability under stress. This softening of PLA’s structure makes it unsuitable for severe industrial applications. PLA and its variants are best suited for low-stress environments as it has a tendency to deform around 60 degree celsius, well below the threshold for severe thermal conditions PLA would need to be in to sustain intense heat without being warped. PLA has a tensile strength of around 60 MegaPascals, way above prototyping strength requirements, but falls short of serving high-stress environments.
Experts and professionals do have access to PLA+ which is better suited for heavy-duty applications that require greater mechanial impact, temperature, and flexibility tolerence, making it ideal when PLA’s low thermal extremes and rigidity are not enough. As technology continues to advance, it is expected that further designed and tailored PLA slabs will be developed which will open doors in various fields such as education, healthcare, and product design.
Why is Understanding PLA’s Glass Transition Temperature Important?
Knowing the glass transition temperature of PLA is very critical as it is the temperature at which a material becomes softer and more pliable.” This “understanding” also helps in optimizing the settings of a 3D printer, for example, the temperature of the printing bed to enhance the adhesion of the print to the bed and avoid warping during cooling. In a broader context, it guides the temperature range finished PLA products can be safely used and stored without risking exposure that might weaken their structural integrity.
How PLA Starts to Soften and Affect Prints
PLA prints “soften under heat” beginning at around “60-65 degrees Celsius or 140-149 degrees Fahrenheit.” This is also the range where the material starts to lose its rigidity. Based on new findings, prints must be kept below these values in practical applications and even during printing to avoid damage.
Beyond that, overheating could lead to layer shifting, melting, distortion of subsequent layers, and other catastrophic damages. Take for example, a study done in 2023 demonstrates how PLA can be warped by approximately 50 degree exposed ambient temperatures for a long time due to uneven heat distribution.
A heated bed should typically be maintained between 50°C and 60°C during 3D printing to aid bed adhesion while not going over the glass transition range. This guarantees that the material can be held securely during the initial layers while preventing premature softening that might lead to defects. For further strength, it is also important to note that the finished PLA product will be kept in an environment since the inside of cars or outdoors during the summer months can escalate rapidly, ever compromising the structure.
Considering all details, coupled with strict temperature control, can greatly enhance the user’s experience in 3D printing and shield the final product from wear and tear as well as thermal wear.
Properties of Amorphous and Crystalline Solid
The polymer framework, especially for PLA, can be divided into two broad structures: amorphous and crystalline. These shapes play a large role in how well, strong, and thermally resistant the 3D printed part is. Amorphous is defined by its molecular chains forming a disordered structure and thus makes the part more flexible but less resistant to heat. Crystalline regions, however, where molecular chains are orderly, provide greater strength and better thermal stability.
The cooling rate during 3D printing is important as it amorphous or crystalline structures for the material. More rapid cooling leads to amorphous regions which is good for finer details and smoother finishes, but makes the object less structurally sound at elevated temperatures. Slower cooling allows for more crystallization which makes the components stronger for high temperatures but can lead to warping or lower aesthetic appeal.
It has been shown that annealing improves the crystalline structure of PLA objects post-printing. Trials demonstrate that annealing PLA at 80-120°C for 15-30 minutes improves heat resistance by raising the glass transition temperature to over 60°C. This helps prevent deformation for automotive engineering applications or places where direct sunlight is encountered.
Users can further customize their prints for more specific applications by harnessing the balance between amorphous and crystalline characteristics. Using the right post-processing methods like annealing helps ensure the strength of the print is preserved, increasing the range of conditions PLA parts can be used in.
How to best set your extruder and nozzle temperatures
Optimally setting the extruder and nozzle temperatures is important for achieving quality prints in 3D PLA prints or any thermoplastic. Current data and best practices suggest that the extrusion temperature for PLA is usually between 190C to 220C, but this differs based on the specific formulation of the PLA or the manufacturer’s directions. Stringing and oozing are minimized at lower temperatures, while higher temperatures are better for layer adhesion and flow.
Considering environmental conditions and the surrounding temperature is equally important in this regard. Research suggests that maintaining room temperature anywhere between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius prevents warping and inconsistent cooling of the print. The nozzle diameter impacts the extrusion temperature as well. For larger nozzles, higher temperatures may be necessary for smooth filament flow. Smaller nozzles, on the other hand, are helped by precise temperature control.Innovations in 3D printing, including adaptive extruding algorithms and intelligent thermal sensors, have streamlined management of auto grade parameters. During printing with composite materials such as carbon fiber or wood infused PLA, users must consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for precise temperature settings since these materials need adjustments to work best.
Reference sources
- Characterization of Physical, Morphological and Mechanical Properties of Poly-Lactic Acid/Graphene (PLA/GNPs) Biopolymer Composites using Fused Deposition Modelling
- Authors: Nurul Fatihah Ab Ghani et al.
- Published: December 5, 2024
- Journal: Journal of Advanced Research in Micro and Nano Engineering
- Key Findings:
- The study investigates the influence of different weight percentages (1%, 3%, and 5%) of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) on the physical, morphological, and mechanical properties of PLA composites.
- Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) revealed that the presence of GNPs led to a decrease in the melting temperature (Tm) of the PLA composites, with the sample containing 1 wt% of GNPs displaying the highest melting point.
- The mechanical properties improved with increasing GNP content, with the highest tensile modulus observed at 1.29 GPa with 5 wt% GNPs.
- Methodology:
- The composites were formulated using a double planetary mixer and processed into granules for additive manufacturing using the Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) technique.
- Various tests, including DSC, were conducted to analyze thermal properties, while mechanical properties were evaluated through tensile, flexural, and compressive tests.
- Effect of lignin and TiO2 on the structure and properties of PLA composites: Combine of simulation analysis and experimental results
- Authors: Man Liu et al.
- Published: September 10, 2024
- Journal: Journal of Applied Polymer Science
- Key Findings:
- The study explores the impact of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and lignin on the mechanical properties of foamed polylactic acid (PLA) composites.
- It was found that the addition of TiO2 improved the melting point and compression properties of the PLA composites.
- The optimal foaming temperatures for PLA/lignin and PLA/TiO2 composites were identified, enhancing the material’s performance.
- Methodology:
- The foamed PLA composites were prepared using supercritical carbon dioxide foaming processes.
- Molecular dynamics simulation analysis was employed to understand the interactions and effects of the fillers on the PLA matrix.
- PLA/MWCNT Nanocomposite: Improved Electrical, Thermal and Antibacterial Properties for Fused Deposition Modelling Additive Manufacturing Applications
- Authors: P. D. De Yro et al.
- Published: April 20, 2023
- Journal: Materials Science Forum
- Key Findings:
- The incorporation of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) into PLA resulted in improved electrical conductivity and thermal properties.
- The study reported a decrease in the glass transition and melting temperatures of the PLA with the addition of MWCNT, indicating enhanced thermal behavior.
- Methodology:
- The PLA/MWCNT nanocomposite was prepared using a two-roll mill for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) applications.
- Various characterization techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), were used to analyze the material properties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the melting point of PLA?
A: The melting point of PLA (Polylactic Acid) is defined between 180°C to 220°C. Nonetheless, the specific melting point depends on the particular formulation of the PLA filament.
Q: Why is PLA popular in the world of 3D printing?
A: PLA is popular in the world of 3D printing because it is simple to print, has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, and does not easily warp. These characteristics of PLA are beneficial for beginners and enthusiasts.
Q: How does the formulation of the PLA filament affect its melting point?
A: The formulation of the PLA filament includes various additives that may change the melting point. These additives may change the required temperatures for optimal printing as well as directly impacting the characteristics of PLA.
Q: What is the ideal printing temperature for PLA 3D prints?
A: The ideal printing temperature for PLA 3D prints is best set at around 190°C and 210°C. A temperature too low may result in weak adhesion between layers, while excessively high temperature will cause the material to be too stringy.
Q: Can PLA be used for common 3D printing applications?
A: Yes, for its ease and dependability, PLA is already utilized for wide-ranging 3D printing tasks, including prototyping, making models for educational purposes, and crafting decorative objects.
Q: How does UV exposure affect PLA 3D printed parts?
A: Parts made with PLA will undergo some form of degradation and eventually weaken when exposed to UV light over extended periods. This can cause brittleness as well as a decline in mechanical properties which could shorten the lifespan of the parts.
Q: What are the properties of PLA that make it suitable for FDM 3D printing?
A: The popularity of PLA amongst desktop 3D printer users stems from its low melting point, along with low shrinkage rate and minimal warping which make it suitable for FDM 3D printing.
Q: Are PLA samples affected by different temperatures during storage?
A: Yes, different temperatures in storage can have an impact on PLA samples. In the case of PLA filament, it is advisable to keep it stored in a cool and dry environment to avoid absorption of moisture which could deteriorate the quality of the filament.
Q: What occurs when the heat deflection temperature limit of a PLA 3D print is breached?
A: Parts that have been printed with PLA are likely to warp or lose their structural integrity if the heat deflected temperature is breached. This happens because heat is easily applied to it, and its ability to keep shape is also low.
Q: In which way do the polymer chains in PLA impact its characteristics during the 3D printing process?
A: The characteristics of PLA as a filament are largely affected by the polymer chains in PLA, which control the flow rate, interlayer adhesion, and many other aspects. The proper flow of polymer is essential for the successful execution of the print and ensuring the interlayer adhesion.
