Bottom line: filament selection follows the application, not the other way around. Work through service temperature, load type, required flexibility, environmental exposure, precision and then printer capability. Prototypes and final functional parts should not use the same selection criteria.
Application map
| Application | Direction | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Visual models | PLA, silk PLA | heat and UV |
| General functional parts | PETG, ABS, ASA | layer adhesion |
| Flexible parts | TPU 85A–95A | feed path |
| Structural parts | PA-CF, PC | moisture and anisotropy |
| Outdoor use | ASA, PC | UV and ageing |
| High temperature | PPS, PEI, PEEK | printer capability |
Decision sequence
- Maximum service temperature and duration.
- Load type and direction.
- Flexibility or damping requirement.
- Outdoor, chemical or flame requirement.
- Precision and surface requirement.
- Printer capability and cost.
Costly mistakes
- Choosing by price or brand first.
- Ignoring layer direction.
- Validating only a prototype.
- Skipping drying requirements.
- Assuming one grade fits all printers.
Buyer / engineer checklist
- What is the service temperature?
- What load type applies?
- Is flexibility required?
- Is the environment demanding?
- Has the part been validated?
Share the application and environment and we can shortlist suitable grades.Material selection