FDM Filaments Chart
An essential aspect of the FDM 3D printing process is the choice of filament, as it determines the final properties and quality of the printed object. With various types of filaments available, each with unique properties, it’s crucial to choose the right one for your specific project.
In this chart, you can explore the most common types of FDM filaments, their compositions, ideal temperatures, and their best uses, helping you make informed decisions for your next 3D printing project.
Note: These are general values and may vary depending on the specific type of material, brand, but also 3D printer. To get the best results of your prints, follow the recommendations of the filament manufacturer and best practices for the specific model you plan to print.
| Material type | PLA | ABS | PET | PETG | Nylon | TPU | PVA |
 |  |  |  |  |  |  | |
| Definition | Polylactic Acid | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene | Polyethylene Terephthalate | Glycol-modified Polyethylene | Polyamide | Thermoplastic Polyurethane | Polyvinyl Alcohol |
| Description | PLA is a bio-based, biodegradable thermoplastic that is derived from corn starch, sugarcane, or other natural resources. It is known for its easy printability and low environmental impact. | ABS is a petroleum-based thermoplastic that is widely used in the manufacturing of various consumer and industrial products. It is known for its high impact resistance, toughness, and ability to be molded into complex shapes. | PET is a thermoplastic polymer commonly used for food and beverage packaging due to its high strength, transparency, and resistance to impact and moisture. | PETG is a glycol-modified version of PET that offers improved toughness, flexibility, and transparency compared to PET. | Nylon is a synthetic polymer that is known for its high strength, durability, and ability to absorb moisture. It is widely used in the manufacturing of various mechanical parts, gears, and textile products. | TPU is a flexible thermoplastic polymer that is known for its high elasticity, resistance to abrasion, and soft-touch feel. | PVA is a water-soluble thermoplastic that is commonly used as a support material in dual-extrusion 3D printing. It dissolves in water, leaving behind the printed model, and can be easily removed after printing. |
| Chemical Composition | Polylactic acid (PLA) is a linear, aliphatic, thermoplastic polymer composed of lactic acid monomers. | Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) is a copolymer composed of three monomers: acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene. | Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a polyester composed of repeated units of two monomers: ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid. | Glycol-modified Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETG) is a copolyester composed of repeated units of two monomers: ethylene glycol, terephthalic acid, and a small amount of a glycol modifier. | Nylon is a linear, semi-aromatic, thermoplastic polymer composed of repeating units of amides derived from the monomers diaminocarboxylic acid and a dicarboxylic acid. | Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) is a segmented copolymer composed of repeating units of polyethers and polyesters derived from isocyanates and diols. | Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a synthetic, linear, thermoplastic polymer composed of repeating units of vinyl alcohol. |
| Usage | Low-stress parts, prototypes, and models with fine details. | Durable parts, toys, automotive parts, and electronic housings. | Food and beverage containers, packaging, and consumer products. | Food and beverage containers, packaging, and consumer products with high impact resistance. | High-strength parts, gears, mechanical components. | Flexible parts, phone cases, and toys with soft-touch surfaces. | Complex models with overhanging or delicate features that require support. |
| Extrusion Temperature | 190-220 °C | 220-260 °C | 220-240 °C | 220-240 °C | 240-260 °C | 210-240 °C | 190-220 °C |
| Melting Temperature | 150-160 °C | 220-240 °C | 225-255 °C | 225-255 °C | 210-230 °C | 170-220 °C | 160-180 °C |
| Ideal Bed Temperature | 50-60 °C | 80-110 °C | 70-80 °C | 70-80 °C | 50-70 °C | 30-50 °C | 60 °C |
| Printer Enclosure Required | Recommended | ✖️ | ✅ | ✖️ | ✅ | ✖️ | ✅ | ✖️ | ✅ | ✖️ | ✅ | ✖️ | ✅ | ✖️ | ✅ |
| Tensile Strength | 40-60 MPa | 55-75 MPa | 50-80 MPa | 70-80 MPa | 80-100 MPa | 20-50 MPa | 40-50 MPa |
| Average Price / KG | $20-$50 | $30-$60 | $20-$50 | $20-$60 | $40-$80 | $30-$80 | $20-$50 |