Finding the perfect temperature for 3D printing is a challenge, whether you are printing PLA, PETG or TPU. If you have wished for one standard temperature you could set on your printer and forget, it is not that simple: every filament and every printer has a sweet spot, and the only reliable way to find it is a short trial-and-error process. Our filament temperature guide gives you the starting range for every material we sell.

A research paper has shown that parts 3D printed at higher temperatures have smaller air gaps between layers and are therefore stronger than parts printed at the low end of the range. To learn how to find the right temperature, read on.

Temperature Ranges for the Hot End

For PLA, there is a range of temperatures you will have to explore to find the right one. In the case of PLA, the range runs from 190 to 220 degrees Celsius. Our EconoFil PLA is happiest at 200 to 215 degrees on most printers; Hyper PLA runs hotter (210 to 230) because it is designed for high-speed printers that push more plastic per second.

Here are a few tips to help you handle the hot end to achieve the best results

• Heat the hot end more if your layers are not adhering to each other
• Keep in mind that the extruder should not become very hot. If it does, it will cause your PLA to become too soft. This results in messy and droopy prints and stringing
• If the hot end is too cool, your prints will not stick to the print bed. It will also result in difficulty making tight corners in your prints

The Best Range for a Heated Bed

Heated beds are extremely important in 3D printing. You may have to explore to find the perfect bed temperature too. For PLA the usual recommendation is 60 degrees Celsius, but do experiment between 50 and 70 degrees to find the optimal 3D print temperature. PETG likes 70 to 80, and TPU 40 to 60.

How To Know if the Heated Bed is at the Right Temperature?

If your prints are not sticking to the print bed, it is a clear indication that your ABS bed temperature or PLA bed temperature is not right. You can slowly adjust the temperature to make it warmer and allow the plastic to stick.

On the contrary, if your heated bed is too hot, it can result in a defect called the 'Elephant's Foot.' This can be avoided by reducing the temperature of the bed.

What is the Best Way to Find the Perfect Temperature?

The best way to find the perfect filament temperature for 3D printing is to experiment. Print a temperature tower (free on Printables) and look at where the layers are smoothest and strongest. Keep in mind that different filaments and brands have different printing temperatures. For instance, a spool of blue PLA filament may print best at a slightly different temperature from a spool of black PLA filament, because pigments change how the plastic flows.

If you still need help, do not hesitate to reach out to the experts in 3D printing in Canada.

Let Us Help You Get the Best Prints!

Filaments.ca is a leader in 3D printing in Canada and offers a wide variety of PLA, PETG, ABS and TPU filament, plus 3D printers and accessories, all stocked in Brampton, Ontario and shipped within 24 hours. Our team can help you pick the right filament and the right temperature for your printer. Call us at 1-844-465-7684, email hello@filaments.ca, or reach us through our contact page.