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If you want to 3D print durable functional parts, you should consider nylon filament. In this article, we will discuss its technical properties and how to set up your 3D printer to create models from nylon.
If you want to 3D print durable functional parts, you should consider nylon filament. In this article, we will discuss its technical properties and how to set up your 3D printer to create models from nylon.
Nylon, or polyamide, is a thermoplastic silky material that can be used in both additive and subtractive manufacturing. Today we will focus on the 3D printing aspect of nylon.
3D printed nylon features great chemical resistance, is tough and flexible and resistant to abrasion. Apart from that, it’s a very light material, so it can be used whenever a lightweight and durable part is needed.
If you’ve never 3D printed nylon before or you are struggling with the results, here are some important points to consider.
If you don’t know how to 3D print nylon but are using Voxelizer software we’ve got some good news for you. In the filament library, we’ve added a few presets for different brands of nylon filaments.
The presets were tested on ZMorph 3D printers and give great results. That means if you’re not that into tinkering with settings, we can recommend the presets for you and your prints should be just fine.
If you’re using the adhesive agent, your worktable is clean, the bed temperature is correct, and you’re still struggling with adhesion, check out ZMorph Academy. In the Basics section, you will find a lesson called “3D Printing Troubleshooting” where you can find some tips on how to get that perfect first layer.
For the best results, the extruder should be heated up to 235-250 °C. For nylon, 3D printing bed temperature should be around 110 °C.
3D printing with nylon is possible on ZMorph VX thanks to the possibility of closing the chamber. When you want to create nylon models, the magnetic covers should be closed.
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What you should know about this material is that nylon filament is a little bit flexible. It's definitely less stiff than ABS or PLA and more elastic. That being said, you shouldn't use this material as a flexible filament such as TPE or TPU. The thinner the nylon models are, the more elastic they get, but be careful not to break them.
As we mentioned before, nylon exhibits great mechanical resistance and is perfect for 3D printing functional parts and other mechanical applications. You can use it for gear wheels, plain bearings, models requiring abrasion resistance, clips, hooks or screw nuts.
Scroll down for sample nylon 3D prints.
ZMorph extruders and heated bed operate on high temperatures so be careful not to burn yourself. It is best to wait for the machine to cool down completely before removing 3D printed models. This way you’re not risking hurting yourself.
What’s more, the moving parts of the machine can suck in long hair or loose elements of your wardrobe. When approaching a working machine, be conscious about that.
While 3D printing nylon, the material is exposed to high temperatures and therefore may emit dangerous fumes. It is vital to place the 3D printer in a well-ventilated area and avoid staying in the same room while it’s working. The common effects include headaches or drowsiness. If you suddenly feel such symptoms, stop your work and get some fresh air. If they persist - contact a doctor.
We want your 3D printing experience to be perfect, that’s why we conducted a series of tests with various materials for additive manufacturing and prepared the Voxelizer filament presets. Using these presets in Voxelizer and ZMorph VX guarantee best results, especially if you combine them with our branded filaments.
Nylon ZMorph 1.75 Filament is available in our online store as well as via a network of official resellers.
If you want to learn about other materials compatible with ZMorph VX, check out the ZMorph Materials Library, where we provide the most important features, applications, and technical data.
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