Published on Mon Jul 12 2021 23:52:04 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Polymaker PolyWood: Achieving a Wood-Like Aesthetic with 3D Printing

Polymer wood filament is a popular choice for 3D printing projects that demand a natural, wood-like appearance. Polymaker’s PolyWood filament aims to deliver exactly that. This article delves into the specifics of PolyWood, outlining its properties, best practices for usage, and a comprehensive evaluation of its performance.

What is Polymaker PolyWood?

PolyWood is a PLA-based composite filament infused with wood fibers. This combination allows for 3D prints that mimic the texture and aesthetic of real wood, offering a unique alternative to standard plastic filaments. It’s designed to be relatively easy to print, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced users.

Detailed Specifications:

• Material Composition: PLA (Polylactic Acid) with wood fibers.
• Diameter: Typically 1.75mm (check the specific spool).
• Print Temperature: 190°C - 220°C (374°F - 428°F) - Adjust based on your printer and ambient conditions.
• Bed Temperature: 25°C - 60°C (77°F - 140°F) - Can sometimes be printed without a heated bed, but adhesion is improved with heat.
• Print Speed: 40-60 mm/s - Experiment to find the optimal speed for your printer.
• Density: ~1.2 g/cm³
• Nozzle: Hardened Steel recommended for consistent printing over time.
• Colors Available: A range of wood-like shades, including light wood, dark wood, and more.

Usage Tips for Optimal Results:

• Nozzle Selection: Due to the presence of wood fibers, a hardened steel nozzle is highly recommended, especially for extended use. Brass nozzles can wear down over time, affecting print quality and potentially clogging the nozzle. 0.4mm nozzle or larger is also recommended.
• Print Temperature: Start with the manufacturer’s recommended range (190-220°C) and adjust based on your observations. Higher temperatures can lead to a darker, more burnt appearance.
• Print Speed: Slower print speeds generally produce better results with wood filaments. This allows for better layer adhesion and more accurate reproduction of details.
• Retraction Settings: Fine-tune your retraction settings to minimize stringing and oozing. Experiment with retraction distance and speed.
• Bed Adhesion: A clean and level build plate is crucial. Consider using a glue stick or hairspray to improve adhesion, especially when printing on glass or other smooth surfaces. A brim is usually recommended.
• Storage: PolyWood, like other PLA filaments, is hygroscopic and can absorb moisture from the air. Store it in an airtight container with desiccant packs to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to printing issues such as stringing, popping, and weak layer adhesion.
• Post-Processing: PolyWood can be sanded, stained, and painted to further enhance its wood-like appearance. Use fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish.

Polywood Performance Evaluation:

Here’s a breakdown of Polymaker PolyWood’s performance based on key criteria:

• Print Quality (8/10): PolyWood generally produces good print quality with a noticeable wood-like texture. Fine details can be challenging, but larger prints exhibit an attractive surface finish.
• Toughness (6/10): While stronger than standard PLA, the wood fibers do reduce the overall toughness. Prints are more brittle and susceptible to cracking under stress than filaments like PETG or ABS.
• Flexibility (3/10): PolyWood is not a flexible filament. It’s relatively rigid and not suitable for applications requiring flexibility.
• Warping (7/10): Warping is generally low, especially when using a heated bed. However, large prints or those with complex geometries may still experience some warping. Proper bed adhesion is key.
• Adhesion (7/10): Bed adhesion is generally good, particularly with a heated bed and a suitable adhesive like glue stick. Layer adhesion is also acceptable, but can be improved with optimized print settings.
• Moisture Sensitivity (5/10): PolyWood is highly sensitive to moisture. Storing it in a dry environment is essential to prevent printing issues. Dehydrating it before printing will also help.
• Color Range (7/10): Polymaker offers a decent selection of wood-like shades, allowing for variations in the final appearance. The color range is not as extensive as with some other filaments.
• Temperature Range (8/10): The recommended temperature range is generally easy to work with on most printers.
• Odor & Fumes (8/10): Similar to standard PLA, PolyWood has a relatively mild odor during printing. It is generally considered to be less offensive than filaments like ABS.
• Spool Winding Quality (9/10): Polymaker is known for its well-wound spools, which helps prevent tangling and printing interruptions.

Overall Average Score: 7.0/10

In conclusion, Polymaker PolyWood is a worthwhile choice for achieving a wood-like aesthetic in your 3D prints. With careful setup and adherence to the best practices, you can achieve excellent results and bring a touch of natural beauty to your 3D printing projects. While it may not be the strongest or most flexible filament, its unique appearance and relative ease of use make it a valuable addition to any maker’s toolbox.

Written by Alex