PLA+ Filament Technical Comparison Guide

PLA+ filament is an advanced formulation of the widely used polylactic acid (PLA) plastic employed in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing. By incorporating specific additives, PLA+ aims to enhance the mechanical properties of standard PLA. These targeted modifications typically include increased impact resistance, improved layer adhesion, and reduced brittleness. This material variant is positioned as a 3D printer filament for users who require greater resilience from their printed objects without sacrificing the ease of printing associated with PLA.

Buyer's Guide: What to Look for in PLA+ Filament

Selecting the right filament is based on an analysis of technical parameters that directly influence the print quality and functionality of the final product.

Mechanical Properties and Composition

The primary difference between PLA and PLA+ lies in their mechanical properties. PLA+ filament is formulated to exhibit higher toughness. This means it can absorb more energy before fracturing, making it more resistant to impacts and bending. Another key aspect is the improved layer adhesion, which can lead to stronger and more isotropic parts. Many PLA variants, including PLA+, are marketed as bio-filament 3D printer materials because their base, polylactic acid, is derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane.

Printing Parameters and Compatibility

Although PLA+ is based on PLA, its optimal print settings can differ.

• Printing Temperature: PLA+ often requires a nozzle temperature that is 5°C to 15°C higher than standard PLA. A typical range is between 195°C and 220°C. Refer to the manufacturer's specifications for precise values.
• Heated Bed Temperature: A heated print bed is not always mandatory but can improve first-layer adhesion and minimise the risk of warping. Recommended temperatures often range between 50°C and 60°C.
• Diameter: The most common diameter for desktop 3D printers is PLA+ 1.75mm. A tight diameter tolerance (e.g., ±0.02 mm) is a hallmark of quality, ensuring consistent material extrusion, which is crucial for achieving precise printing results.

Storage and Moisture Management

PLA and its derivatives are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture from the ambient air. Moist filament leads to poor print quality, manifesting as popping or crackling sounds during extrusion, a rough surface finish, and reduced part strength. Proper storage in a sealed bag with a desiccant (silica gel) is therefore essential to preserve the material's properties.

Featured PLA+ Filament Options

The following products represent a selection from the premium PLA+ segment, chosen for their specific material properties and colourways.

CAILAB 3D Printer Filaments PLA+ Bio - Yellow

• Why We Recommend It: This variant combines the mechanical advantages of PLA+ with a vibrant yellow colour. Its bio-based formulation makes it an option for users considering an eco-friendly filament.
• Advantages: Good layer adhesion, which increases the strength of the printed object. Reduced tendency to warp compared to materials like ABS. The consistent colour ensures visually appealing models.
• Best Suited For: Hobbyists and prototype developers creating functional parts or high-visibility models that require greater durability than standard PLA.

View Product: CAILAB PLA+ Bio - Yellow

CAILAB 3D Printer Filaments PLA+ Bio - Sakura Pink

• Why We Recommend It: The "Sakura Pink" shade offers an aesthetic choice for design objects without compromising on material strength. The PLA+ formulation ensures enhanced toughness.
• Advantages: Low odour emission during the printing process. Achieves a smooth surface finish with correct print settings. The improved toughness makes prints more resilient.
• Best Suited For: Designers, artists, and makers crafting decorative objects, gifts, or visual prototypes where both aesthetics and mechanical stability are important.

View Product: CAILAB PLA+ Bio - Sakura Pink

CAILAB 3D Printer Filaments PLA+ Bio - Orange

• Why We Recommend It: The high-visibility orange colour is excellent for functional components, tools, or safety parts that need to be quickly identifiable. This CAILAB filament provides the necessary robustness for such applications.
• Advantages: Reliable printing performance across various printer models. Improved impact resistance compared to conventional PLA. The vibrant colour is retained post-printing.
• Best Suited For: Engineers and users in the prototyping field who need durable, highly visible functional parts that are easy to print.

View Product: CAILAB PLA+ Bio - Orange

Complementary 3D Printing Equipment

The quality of a 3D print is not determined by the filament alone. The printer's performance and calibration are equally critical factors for the final result. Modern and well-maintained hardware provides the foundation for successfully processing specialty filaments like PLA+. If you are considering upgrading or purchasing new equipment, you can find a selection of devices in our New Printers category.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about PLA+ Filament

1. What is the primary difference between PLA and PLA+? The main difference lies in the material composition. PLA+ contains additives that modify its mechanical properties. This typically results in higher impact resistance and better layer adhesion compared to standard PLA, making printed objects less brittle and more resilient overall.

2. Does PLA+ filament require special print settings? Yes, the settings can differ. PLA+ is often printed at a slightly higher nozzle temperature (approx. 5-15°C more than standard PLA) to ensure optimal melting and adhesion. It is recommended to follow the filament manufacturer's specifications and, if necessary, use a temperature tower to determine the ideal parameters for your specific printer.

3. How should PLA+ filament be stored? Due to its hygroscopic properties, PLA+ filament must be stored in a dry environment. Storing it in an airtight bag or box along with a desiccant (e.g., silica gel) prevents moisture absorption. This is crucial for maintaining high print quality and the material's mechanical integrity.

Authored by: Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer