PLA
The straightforward choice for detailed, rigid indoor parts.
- Prototypes and display models
- Decor and housings
- Fine details under moderate load
Materials
Five materials for different jobs
We print in PLA, PETG, TPU 95A, PLA-CF and PETG-CF. This guide helps match the material to its intended use.
Base materials
PLA or PETG as a starting point?
The intended use matters most. If in doubt, we review your selection before production.
PETG
The tougher choice for functional parts, moisture and higher loads.
- Brackets and mechanical parts
- Kitchen, bathroom and sheltered outdoor use
- Parts with slight flex
Surface
PLA is usually more matte and detailed; PETG looks smoother and more technical.
Temperature
PETG is generally the better choice for consistently warm environments.
Outdoor use
PETG handles moisture better; color and geometry also affect durability.
PLA and PETG as base materials
| Property | PLA | PETG |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner-friendly | Very easy | A bit trickier |
| Strength | Stiff, rather brittle | Tough and impact-resistant |
| Temperature | Low (approx. 60 °C) | Higher (approx. 80 °C) |
| Water & weather | Moderate | Good, also outdoors |
| Flexibility | Rigid | Slightly flexible |
| Best for | Decor, models, prototypes | Functional parts, outdoor, containers |
PLA
Pros
- Very easy and affordable
- Fine detail, many colors
- From renewable resources
Cons
- Brittle under heavy load
- Sensitive to heat and UV
PETG
Pros
- Strong and impact-resistant
- Better heat and weather resistance
- Slightly flexible
Cons
- A bit harder to print
- Can string
Specialty filaments
Flexible or carbon-fibre reinforced
TPU 95A can be ordered in black, white and neon green; PLA-CF and PETG-CF in black and white. Each solves a different task and does not replace an engineering review.
TPU 95A
Elastic and damping for parts designed to bend in a controlled way or absorb impacts.
- Protective caps and bumpers
- Equipment feet and grips
- Flexible clips and seals
Pros
- High elasticity
- Abrasion-resistant and damping
- Suitable for repeated bending
Cons
- Less dimensionally stable
- Fine details and tight tolerances are more demanding
PLA-CF
Rigid and dimensionally stable with a matte surface for precise parts and a refined technical appearance.
- Jigs and brackets
- Housings and covers
- Dimensionally stable prototypes
Pros
- High rigidity
- Low warping tendency
- Matte carbon-fibre appearance
Cons
- Not flexible
- Not intended for sustained heat or sudden impact loads
PETG-CF
Rigid while handling moisture and impacts more robustly than PLA-CF.
- Technical brackets
- Workshop and outdoor parts
- Loaded housings and adapters
Pros
- High rigidity and toughness
- Good moisture resistance
- Stable technical surface
Cons
- Not elastic like TPU
- Abrasive filament with higher production effort
Specialty materials compared
TPU 95A
- Flexibility
- Very high, Shore 95A
- Rigidity
- Low
- Moisture
- Good; process dry
- Surface
- Rubber-like, slightly glossy
- Typical uses
- Bumpers, feet, protection and flexible functional parts
PLA-CF
- Flexibility
- Very low
- Rigidity
- Very high
- Moisture
- Moderate
- Surface
- Matte, fine carbon-fibre texture
- Typical uses
- Jigs, brackets, housings and rigid prototypes
PETG-CF
- Flexibility
- Low
- Rigidity
- High
- Moisture
- Good
- Surface
- Satin matte, technical appearance
- Typical uses
- Robust brackets, adapters and sheltered outdoor parts
FAQ
Common questions about material choice
Which material suits a first part?
PLA is usually the easy starting point for models, prototypes and indoor parts. PETG often fits moisture, impacts and moderately higher temperatures better.
Can PLA be used outdoors?
For short periods, yes. For lasting moisture, UV and changing temperatures, PETG is usually preferable. Geometry and use still matter.
Do you review my material choice?
Yes. Before production we review the file, dimensions and configuration for obvious risks and contact you if anything is unclear.
What does CF mean in PLA-CF and PETG-CF?
CF means carbon fibre. Short carbon fibres mainly increase rigidity and change the surface. Load capacity still depends strongly on geometry and layer orientation.
Is a CF filament automatically stronger?
No. It is usually stiffer and more dimensionally stable, but can be less forgiving depending on the load. PETG, PETG-CF or TPU may be better for impacts, snap fits or bending.
Which colours are available for specialty materials?
TPU 95A is available in black, white and neon green. PLA-CF and PETG-CF are available in black and white.
Ready to print?
Upload your model and choose material, color and quality in the configurator.