Published on Wed Mar 30 2022 17:02:50 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Crafting Metallic Masterpieces: A Deep Dive into ColorFabb brassFill

For makers looking to add a touch of genuine metal to their 3D prints, ColorFabb’s brassFill filament presents an intriguing option. It’s not just a metallic looking filament; it’s a composite material that actually contains a substantial amount of brass powder. This gives your prints a unique weight, feel, and aesthetic that differentiates them from standard plastics. Let’s explore what makes brassFill tick, from specifications and best practices to a honest assessment of its strengths and weaknesses.

What is ColorFabb brassFill?

brassFill, from ColorFabb, is a PLA-based filament infused with approximately 80% brass powder by weight. This high metal content is the key to its distinguishing characteristics. After printing and some post-processing (which we’ll get into), you can achieve a convincing metallic finish, even with subtle variations in tone and sheen.

Detailed Specifications

• Material: PLA (Polylactic Acid) + Brass Powder
• Brass Powder Content: ~80% by weight
• Diameter: Typically 1.75mm or 2.85mm (ensure you choose the correct size for your printer)
• Spool Weight: Typically 750g
• Recommended Nozzle Temperature: 195-220°C (383-428°F) This range is broader than standard PLA due to the metal content.
• Recommended Bed Temperature: 50-60°C (122-140°F)
• Print Speed: 40-60 mm/s (Generally slower than standard PLA is recommended)
• Layer Height: 0.1 - 0.2mm (Experimentation may be required)
• Cooling Fan: Recommended (but may require fine-tuning)
• Enclosure: Not usually required
• Storage: Store in a dry, airtight container with desiccant when not in use.

Usage Tips and Tricks for Success

brassFill can be a bit more demanding than standard PLA, but following these tips will greatly improve your chances of successful prints:

• Nozzle Choice: A hardened steel nozzle is strongly recommended. The abrasive brass particles will quickly wear down a brass nozzle, leading to print quality issues and potential clogs.
• Cleanliness is Key: Keep your print bed, nozzle, and filament path free of debris. The metal particles can exacerbate clogging issues.
• First Layer Adhesion: Ensure your bed is properly leveled and use a good bed adhesion method (glue stick, hairspray, blue tape) to prevent warping, especially with larger prints. A brim or raft might be necessary.
• Slower Speeds: Reduce your print speed, especially for intricate details. This allows the filament more time to melt and adhere properly.
• Retraction Settings: Fine-tune your retraction settings to minimize stringing. You may need to experiment to find the sweet spot.
• Post-Processing: This is where brassFill truly shines.
  • Sanding: Start with a coarser grit sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits to smooth the surface.
  • Polishing: Use a polishing compound and a soft cloth or polishing wheel to bring out the metallic shine.
  • Tumbling: For smaller parts, a tumbler with steel shot can create a smooth, polished finish.
  • Chemical Patina: Experiment with chemical patinas (liver of sulfur, brass blackener) to create unique aged or antiqued finishes.
• Moisture Control: BrassFill is quite hygroscopic (it absorbs moisture from the air). Store it in an airtight container with desiccant when not in use. If you suspect the filament has absorbed moisture, dry it in a filament dryer or low-temperature oven before printing.
• Experimentation is Essential: Each printer is different. Don’t be afraid to experiment with temperatures, speeds, and retraction settings to find what works best for you.
• Consider Print Orientation: Orient your parts to minimize the need for support structures. Removing supports from brassFill can sometimes leave rough surfaces that require more extensive post-processing.

Filament Assessment

Here’s a breakdown of brassFill’s performance in key areas:

• Print Quality: 7/10. Achievable, but requires careful tuning and attention to detail. Layer adhesion can be finicky, and stringing can be an issue.
• Toughness: 5/10. Less durable than standard PLA due to the high metal content. More brittle and prone to cracking under stress.
• Flexibility: 2/10. Very rigid and not flexible at all.
• Warping: 6/10. Can be prone to warping, especially with larger prints. Good bed adhesion is crucial.
• Adhesion: 6/10. Requires effort to achieve good adhesion. Bed preparation is vital.
• Moisture Sensitivity: 8/10. Highly susceptible to moisture absorption. Proper storage and drying are essential.
• Color Range: 1/10. Limited to a single brass-like color. The beauty comes from post-processing to enhance the metallic look.
• Temperature Range: 6/10. Slightly wider temperature range than standard PLA, requiring some experimentation.
• Odor & Fumes: 4/10. Similar to PLA, generally low odor.
• Spool Winding Quality: 8/10. ColorFabb generally has good spool winding, minimizing tangles.

Average Score: 5.3/10

Conclusion

ColorFabb brassFill offers a unique opportunity to create 3D printed objects with a genuine metallic aesthetic. While it requires more attention and effort than standard PLA, the results – especially after post-processing – can be truly impressive. Its strengths lie in its ability to mimic the look and feel of brass, while its weaknesses stem from its reduced strength and increased sensitivity to moisture. If you’re willing to invest the time and effort, brassFill can be a rewarding addition to your 3D printing arsenal.

Written by Alex