DIY filament for a 3D printer: how to make a filament

Advanced developments and the use of modern technology have allowed manufacturers to create a printer that provides volumetric printing of various elements. This technology appeared relatively recently, but it could find application in many areas of human activity: in large enterprises, in science, medicine ...

The principle of operation is similar to the operation of conventional printer models. After connecting to a computer and installing software, the operation of all systems, then with the help of ready-made layouts of figures, a part is created, which is then sent to printout. One of the few and most important differences is the performance of work not on a plane, but in volume.

To ensure the normal functioning of the equipment, it is necessary to use special materials to create three-dimensional figures in space. Modern devices use a special polymer material, which we will talk about in our article.

Filament for a 3D printer - what is it?

To create any part, material for manufacturing is required. Through the interaction of complex processes, the polymer is fed into the channel, heated, and then applied in layers on the working surface of the thermal table of the printer.

Filament translated from English means a thread or threadlike strip. This most accurately reflects the main type of material at the exit of the nozzle. As a special polymer, various types of plastic can be used, which have their own advantages and disadvantages. For work, you should carefully approach the choice of material used in accordance with the requirements for the parts to be printed.

However, the use of original elements has several disadvantages:

• Difficulty in ordering and delivery of components for work.
• The high cost of purchased materials.
• Difficulty in selecting for a specific task.

Important! These shortcomings complicate the process of working on a 3D printer and make it very costly, so many users are looking for ways to independently create a filament.

However, it should be understood that the use of non-native elements can lead to malfunctions and malfunctions in the system that provides the workflow.

Can I make a filament with my own hands?

Fortunately, for most owners of 3D printers, there are special tools for creating filament at home. These devices are called extruders. Currently, this equipment can be found on special sites on the Internet. Manufacturers offer a choice of three possible configuration options. Depending on the cost, a set of possibilities will differ.

The work of creating material at home consists of several stages. If you decide to purchase this device, use the instructions for use:

1. Turn on the purchased equipment, make the necessary settings for quality work.
2. Buy raw materials to create threads.
3. Load the raw materials into the required compartment. If desired, you can mix several types of plastic to obtain various properties.
4. Adjust feed rate and heating temperature.
5. Wait until the plastic passes through the device to form a full coil.