SUNLU PLA and PLA+ 3D filaments: Is it Price it?

Once I present my 3D-printed objects to buddies, the most typical query is, “How a lot does the filament price?” SUNLU is thought for its reasonably priced 3D printing supplies. On this assessment, we examined their PLA and PLA+ filaments. To examine the standard and usefulness, I printed numerous issues that I wanted in the home.

PLA (Polylactic Acid) and PLA+ (also referred to as enhanced PLA, PLA Professional, or PLA Plus) are two widespread 3D printing filaments utilized in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing processes. Whereas each are produced from biodegradable renewable assets (like cornstarch or sugarcane) and have related base traits, there are some variations between them:

• [Strength and Durability] PLA+ is commonly marketed as a stronger, extra sturdy model of normal PLA. It usually has enhanced mechanical properties, together with elevated tensile power and impression resistance. This makes it much less brittle and extra appropriate for purposeful components.
• [Flexibility] PLA+ will be barely extra versatile in comparison with normal PLA. It might have a better tolerance for bending and deformation earlier than breaking.
• [Surface Finish] PLA+ could present a smoother and shinier floor end in comparison with normal PLA. This may make it extra aesthetically pleasing for some purposes.
• [Printing temperatures] Whereas PLA has a low printing temperature, normally round 190-220°C, PLA+ requires barely increased temperatures, usually round 200-230°C. A decrease temperature means much less vitality consumed.
• [Pricing] PLA+ filaments are barely costlier than normal PLA as a consequence of their improved properties.

SUNLU PLA vs SUNLU PLA+ comparability desk

SUNLU PLA and PLA+ hands-on assessment

Disclosure: I obtained these PLA and PLA+ filaments as a part of a product assessment collaboration with SUNLU. Product specs and high quality could differ in keeping with the producer’s reliability, so I can’t assure that you’ll get the fabric that performs the identical as seen in my article.

Along with the S2 FilaDryer, SUNLU additionally despatched me two spools of 3D filaments, a white PLA and a gray PLA+. Each filaments have been packed in the identical sort of recycled cardboard field. Elegoo nonetheless makes use of plastic spools as an alternative of environment-friendly cardboard. Correctly, the filaments have been in hermetic vacuum luggage with small silica gel sachets inside. PLA and PLA Plus have a tendency to soak up water, which means they will develop into brittle over time if saved in a moist surroundings. To keep away from this, it’s best to hold the spool within the authentic package deal for the long run.

A label on the bobbin exhibits the manufacturing serial quantity, materials colour, sort, diameter, and printing nozzle temperature. An unopened spool weighs 1164 grams. The diameter tolerance of the PLA is +/- 0.05 mm, and the PLA Plus is +/- 0.03 mm. Throughout my exams, I had no points with spool tangling or unwinding. The accuracy of the filament thickness is essential for good printing outcomes. The extrusion width may even change if the filament’s thickness modifications inside a spool, leading to an ugly 3D print.

Pricing, availability, and colour choices

Once I printed my assessment, the SUNLU PLA Plus 3D filament was obtainable ranging from $13.99/kg with sixty colour choices. The usual PLA is 1$ ($12.99/kg) cheaper per kg and is out there in 26 colours. There are additionally obtainable 6KG bundles for a extra pleasant worth.

Sunlu PLA Plus and normal PLA: Printability

When it comes to printing, PLA and PLA+ are identified for being straightforward to make use of. They’ve a low melting level, so it doesn’t essentially require a heated construct plate. In addition they don’t produce poisonous fumes when heated, making it a safer choice for indoor use.

Firstly, I examined the gray PLA+ filament by printing numerous issues that I wanted in the home. I lately bought some Ikea shelving methods that wanted to be painted. The 3D-printed pyramids helped to stack the freshly painted cabinets. Homogenization of the paint with a mixer earlier than use is advisable to acquire a pleasant uniform colour. My spouse misplaced the slender hose of the vacuum cleaner, and she or he was pleased after I printed a brand new, even longer one. The drill mud collector that works with dwelling vacuum cleaners can be an awesome accent for DIY-ers.

With inventory settings, I had no printing points with not one of the take a look at objects. Utilizing the SUNLU PLA+ with my Neptune 3 Professional machine was straightforward. I additionally printed a temperature tower (5 °C  steps) to check the best print temperature for the Sunlu PLA+ filament. One of the best outcomes have been obtained within the vary 210-215 °C.

With the usual white PLA, I had some stringing and over-extrusion issues. It additionally caught to the platform extra weakly than the Plus one.

For the entire above, I used solely a 3rd of the filament roll, so I 3D printed a variety of helpful stuff with out leaving the home at the price of a couple of {dollars}.

SUNLU PLA Plus: Technical specs

SUNLU Commonplace PLA: Technical specs