PLA vs PLA+: Which is Better

When it comes to 3D printing, the filament you choose can make or break your project. Two popular options are PLA and PLA+ filaments. But what exactly are these materials, and more importantly, which one is best for your specific needs?

This article aims to explore the properties of both PLA and PLA+ filaments. We'll also compare their strengths and weaknesses, so that you can better understand which filament is the right choice for your 3D printing project.

What is PLA Filament?

PLA, or Polylactic Acid, is a type of thermoplastic made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugar cane. This makes it a popular choice for environmentally conscious 3D printing enthusiasts. PLA filament is used in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing and is known for its ease of use and low warping, making it a favorite among both beginners and professionals.

The Advantages of PLA Filament 1. Cost-Effective & Widely Accessible: being the most commonly used filament for 3D printing, and typically inexpensive.

2. Eco-Friendly: it's biodegradable, meaning it decomposes over time and reduces environmental impact.

3. Easy of Use: Due to its lower printing temperature, which minimizes the risk of warping or shrinkage.

4. Good Surface Finish : PLA can produce prints with a smooth surface finish, which is ideal for aesthetic projects and prototypes.

Disadvantages of PLA Filament While PLA filament has many advantages, it also has some drawbacks:

1. Lower Heat Resistance : PLA has a lower melting point compared to other filaments, making it unsuitable for items exposed to high temperatures.

2. Brittleness : PLA is more brittle than other materials like ABS, which can make printed objects less durable and more prone to breaking.

3. Limited Post-Processing Options : PLA doesn’t respond well to certain post-processing techniques, such as sanding or drilling, which can limit its use for projects requiring a smooth finish.

4. Moisture Sensitivity : PLA can absorb moisture from the air, which can negatively affect print quality and cause issues like bubbling or poor layer adhesion.

5. Less Flexibility : PLA lacks the flexibility of other filaments, making it less suitable for parts that need to bend or flex.

What is PLA+ Filament?

PLA+ is an upgraded version of the standard PLA filament, designed to offer improved performance for 3D printing. It boasts a higher tensile strength, allowing it to withstand greater forces without breaking. Additionally, PLA+ has better heat resistance, making it suitable for applications where the printed object may be exposed to higher temperatures.

Advantages of PLA+ Over Standard PLA Higher Tensile Strength : PLA+ is more durable and can withstand greater forces without breaking compared to standard PLA. Improved Heat Resistance : It has better thermal stability, making it suitable for applications where the printed objects might be exposed to higher temperatures. Enhanced Print Quality : PLA+ often provides smoother finishes and finer details in prints. Reduced Brittleness : PLA+ is generally less brittle than standard PLA, resulting in more robust and resilient printed objects. Less Moisture Sensitivity : PLA+ typically absorbs less moisture from the air, which can lead to more consistent print quality and fewer issues like blistering or poor layer bonding. The Disadvantages of PLA+ Filament Higher Cost : PLA+ is usually more expensive than standard PLA, which can be a consideration for budget-conscious users. Printing Requirements : It may require slightly higher temperatures for printing and a heated bed, making it less compatible with some entry-level 3D printers. Availability : PLA+ might not be as widely available as standard PLA, potentially limiting choices in terms of suppliers and colors. Post-Processing : While it has improved properties, PLA+ can still be challenging to post-process compared to other filaments like ABS or PETG. PLA vs PLA+: Which is Better

When comparing PLA and PLA+, several factors come into play. Both filaments have their unique strengths and weaknesses, which we'll explore in the following sections.

Attribute Creality Ender PLA Filament Creality Ender PLA+ Filament Tensile Strength 33MPa 34MPa Bending Strength 75MPa 77MPa High-resolution NO Yes Dimensional accuracy +0.05 mm +0.03 mm Easy setup for printing YES YES Use for load-bearing applications NO YES Use in high-temperature NO YES Eco-friendly bioplastic YES NO Recommend Print Speed 40-80mm/s 40-100mm/s Print Quality and Ease of Use PLA is known for its ease of use, making it a popular choice for beginners.

PLA+ also prints easily, but it may require some adjustments to printer settings.

Both filaments can produce high-quality prints with good detail and smooth finishes.

Related article : Mastering PLA Smoothing Techniques for 3D Prints

Durability and Strength PLA is fairly strong, but it can be brittle and prone to cracking.

PLA+, on the other hand, is more durable and flexible.

This makes PLA+ a better choice for parts that need to withstand stress or impact.

Heat Resistance and Printing Temperatures PLA has a lower heat resistance compared to PLA+.

This means PLA+ can withstand higher temperatures without deforming.

However, PLA+ also requires a slightly higher printing temperature than PLA. Click to know Ideal PLA Bed and Nozzle Temperature Guidelines

Environmental Impact and Biodegradability Both PLA and PLA+ are derived from renewable resources, making them more environmentally friendly than petroleum-based filaments.

However, it's important to note that while they are biodegradable under industrial composting conditions, they won't readily break down in a home compost pile. The production process for PLA+ may also have a slightly higher environmental impact due to the additional additives.

Cost Considerations PLA is generally cheaper than PLA+.

However, the increased strength and durability of PLA+ may make it a more cost-effective choice for certain applications.

It's important to consider the specific requirements of your project when deciding which filament to use.

PLA and PLA+, which is better for you? It always depends on your specific needs and the nature of your project.

Conclusion In a word, neither PLA nor PLA+ is inherently better than the other. The choice between the two depends on your specific project requirements, budget, and printing capabilities. Understanding the properties and benefits of each can help you make the best decision for your 3D printing needs.

PLA vs PLA+: Which is Better

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