Comparative Analysis and Material Selection Guide

Material Properties Overview Material Strength Flexibility Heat Resistance Printability Applications PLA Medium Low Low (50°C) Easy Prototyping, aesthetic models PETG High Medium Medium (75°C) Moderate Functional parts, containers ABS High Low High (100°C) Moderate Industrial, automotive PC Very High Low Very High (120°C) Difficult Aerospace, enclosures Nylon High High Medium (90°C) Difficult Gears, mechanical parts…


Material Properties Overview

MaterialStrengthFlexibilityHeat ResistancePrintabilityApplications
PLAMediumLowLow (50°C)EasyPrototyping, aesthetic models
PETGHighMediumMedium (75°C)ModerateFunctional parts, containers
ABSHighLowHigh (100°C)ModerateIndustrial, automotive
PCVery HighLowVery High (120°C)DifficultAerospace, enclosures
NylonHighHighMedium (90°C)DifficultGears, mechanical parts
TPULowVery HighMedium (80°C)DifficultWearables, seals
Carbon-FilledVery HighLowHigh (100°C)ModerateAerospace, rigid lightweight parts
Markforged Carbon FiberVery HighLowHigh (120°C)DifficultAerospace, high-performance applications
Markforged KevlarHighHighMedium (90°C)ModerateWear-resistant, impact-resistant parts

Choosing the Right Material for Your Application

  • Strength & Durability: PC, Markforged Carbon Fiber, or Nylon for high-load applications.
  • Flexibility: TPU or Markforged Kevlar for soft, impact-resistant components.
  • Ease of Printing: PLA or PETG for consistent printability.
  • Heat Resistance: ABS, PC, or Markforged Carbon Fiber for parts exposed to elevated temperatures.
  • Weight Reduction: Carbon-Fiber Composites or Markforged Carbon Fiber for optimal strength-to-weight ratios.