Metal Filled Filament
Metal Filled is involves mixing metal powder with PLA giving a metal finish and weight to a project Overview | Positives & NegativesHardware RequirementsAn Overview of Metal Filled Filament
A standard brass nozzle will be too soft and will quickly wear down. Be sure to upgrade to a wear resistant nozzle in order to print this filament effectively. There are other metal-like filaments in the market that may just have metallic coloring added to the filament. These filaments do not contain any actual metal powder, so they do not share many of the same benefits of the true metallic filaments. This article will focus on materials that contain actual metal powders for a realistic metallic weight and feel.
Positives
- Metallic finish is aesthetically appealing
- Does not need high-temperature extruder
- Heavier than standard filaments
Negatives
- Requires a wear-resistant nozzle
- Printed parts are very brittle
- Very poor bridging and overhangs
- Can cause partial clogs over time
- More Expensive
Typical Hardware Requirements
Printer Bed
Temperature: 45-60 °C
Heated Bed Optional
Enclosure Not Required
Build Surface
Painter’s Tape
Glue Stick
PEI
Filament Extruder
Temperature: 190-220 °C
Requires Wear Resistant Hardened Steel Nozzle
Cooling Fan
Cooling Fan Required