Silk PLA became an interesting choice for everyone wanting a smoother finish in their 3D print. This filament is now taking over the 3D printing world with its wonders. However, many people have some concerns about this particular filament.
The most common question is whether it is weaker or stronger than the regular PLA? This article explains everything you need to know about the Silk PLA and regular PLA and their differences.
Silk PLA and Regular PLA – How Are They Unique?
The Main Difference:
Silk PLA is a unique variant of PLA or Polylactic acid filament. To understand their differences, first, we need to understand their physical qualities. Regular PLA is less glossy and doesn’t really give off that shiny vibe that you get with Silk PLA. In Silk PLA, the manufacturers use additives to tweak its physical properties, ultimately giving it a shinier look.
This is one reason why Silk PLA is being used worldwide to create things like toys or decoration pieces. However, strength is one area where these two filaments differ uniquely.
The Chemical Magic:
In general, regular PLA is supposed to be stronger, and Silk PLA, due to its chemical and physical properties, isn’t as durable as regular PLA, even if it is more flexible. Many Silk PLA users have also reported that after applying some pressure to their Silk PLA prints, it can break easier compared to regular filament.
Their Use Cases:
These are some of the main reasons both filaments are unique. On one end, you have regular PLA, which can be used to make functional goods. But with regular PLA, you should prioritize prints that are more for the looks, i.e, decoration pieces.
The Difference in Temperature
Temperature is a huge issue for Silk PLA. It needs to be controlled so there won’t be any layer adhesion issues. To sum up, when you add additives, Silk PLA’s internal structure will automatically lose a lot of strength.
However, with that bit of sacrifice, you are able to get a shine like none other. Aside from the differences, let’s talk about why the Silk PLA is generally weaker.
Silk PLA is Generally Weaker: Here’s Why
The answer to whether Silk PLA is weaker than regular PLA is a complete yes. Generally, most brands’ Silk PLA is weaker, and now, we are talking about some of the reasons why.
Additives Are Good, But They Make It Weaker
3D printing accessory manufacturers must mix PLA with additives to get the silk-like shine and the glossy finish. This includes soft polymers that can change their physical structure. In addition, plasticizers are also commonly used to achieve that look.
So, what issue occurs like this? When additives are added to a filament, the print becomes smoother. However, it also affects the overall strength and layer adhesion, which is somewhat of an issue with Silk PLA>
In the end, the additives will affect the object you’re printing, as they promote weaker joints. However, if you have the temperature right and the cooling is done slowly and amply, the 3D prints won’t be ruined.
Print Orientation Also Matters
When it comes to 3D printing in general, printing orientation matters a long way. In this case, the strength would be highly dependent upon the orientation. So, printing Silk PLA with layers parallel to the load might hold up pretty well.
However, the inner bonding makes Silk PLA less reliable once correctly printed, and the load or stress comes from all sides. This is one of the reasons why most people use it for decoration purposes and less for products or items that will be frequently put under a lot of stress.
Moreover, many people have stated that Silk PLA is 10 to 15% less strong on average, if you look at many Bambu Lab forums.
In other words, while the flexibility is slightly higher, the strength factor is lower than standard PLA.
Flexibility is a Key Differentiator
One thing that regular PLA is known for is that it is rigid. Compared to that, Silk PLA is more flexible. However, it doesn’t mean it is stronger than the regular PLA. Silk PLA’s flexibility means it will bend slightly before breaking.
But when you add stress, it will likely fall or snap before a regular PLA. The brittleness and rigidity of a regular PLA make it a tad bit stronger than the Silk PLA variant.
What Can You Print with Silk PLA?
With Silk PLA focusing more on flexibility and aesthetics, non-functional parts are the best items you can print with it. This is because Silk PLA is not the best when it comes to handling physical stress.
If you have a 3D printer and a good Silk PLA like the ones that Chitu System offers, you can print vases, action figures and figurines, wall art, keychains, home decor items, cosplay pieces, and a lot more.
Some companies are now also using it to create toys and models. This includes chess sets, toy figurines, and even educational models like DNA and other systems. Silk PLA has all the beauty to create some of the most beautiful 3D printed items.
Final Verdict
Aside from its weaker nature, Silk PLA is an excellent 3D printing filament. It can be used to create shinier, more premium-looking objects. If you want more 3D printer accessories, you should check out Chitu Systems.
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