Understanding PLA Filament Durability
PLA filament, widely used in 3D printing for its ease of use and versatility, is subject to various environmental factors that can affect its quality and performance. Understanding how PLA can go bad is crucial for ensuring successful 3D printing projects.
Signs That PLA Filament Has Deteriorated
Several key indicators can help you identify whether your PLA filament is no longer usable:
Physical Appearance: Fresh PLA filament should be smooth and uniform. If you notice discoloration, brittleness, or an uneven surface texture, it may have absorbed moisture or undergone other forms of degradation.
Print Quality: Deteriorated filament can lead to weaker prints, visible layer separation, or poor adhesion. If your 3D prints are not adhering properly or exhibit increased stringing, the filament may have compromised integrity.
- Extrusion Issues: When using degraded PLA, you may encounter problems with the 3D printer’s extruder. Signs of this include jamming and inconsistent feeding, leading to gaps or poor dimensional accuracy in your printed objects.
The Lifespan of PLA Filament
The longevity of PLA filament varies based on its exposure to moisture and environmental conditions:
- Sealed Storage: When stored properly in sealed containers with desiccants, PLA can remain effective for over 10 years.
- Unsealed Storage: In environments where it’s unsealed but kept away from direct sunlight, PLA generally lasts close to one year before showing signs of decline.
- Poor Conditions: Exposure to high humidity can drastically reduce PLA’s lifespan, making it less reliable within a month under conditions of 60% humidity or higher, and just a week or less if left in direct sunlight.
Environmental Influences on PLA
PLA is particularly sensitive to various environmental factors that can accelerate its breakdown:
- Moisture: PLA is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air. This can lead to swelling and a compromised structure, which can cause blockages in the printer’s nozzle.
- UV Exposure: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to degradation, especially if the filament contains fillers or colorants that are less UV stable.
- Temperature: High temperatures, particularly in the presence of microorganisms, can facilitate the breakdown of PLA. In conditions that are too hot or too humid, it can become brittle or gummy, making it unusable for prints.
Thermal Stability of PLA
PLA is not heat-resistant. It should not be exposed to high temperatures, as it can warp or start to melt. Using PLA in environments where it could be subjected to heating, such as in microwave ovens or near heat sources, is strongly discouraged due to its chemical properties.
Storage Recommendations for PLA Filament
To maximize the lifespan and usability of PLA filament, consider the following storage recommendations:
- Use Desiccants: Store PLA with silica gel packs to absorb excess moisture.
- Keep in a Sealed Container: Utilizing airtight containers helps limit exposure to humidity and air.
- Control Temperature: Keep the storage area cool and away from direct sunlight to avoid thermal degradation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I still use PLA that has been stored improperly?
Yes, but it’s crucial to check for any signs of damage or degradation. If it appears brittle or has absorbed moisture, it may not provide satisfactory print results.What are the best conditions to store PLA filament?
The best storage conditions include a cool, dry place in an airtight container along with desiccants to keep moisture at bay.- Does cured or printed PLA degrade at the same rate as raw filament?
Cured PLA does not degrade at the same rate as raw filament. While it can still be affected by environmental conditions, the degradation process may differ, particularly in terms of physical stress experienced during the printing process.
