Published on Wed Feb 08 2023 13:45:18 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

FormFutura EasyWood: Bringing the Natural Look to Your 3D Prints

FormFutura EasyWood is a unique 3D printing filament that allows you to create objects with a natural wood-like appearance and texture. This specialized filament opens up a world of possibilities for decorative pieces, architectural models, and functional items that desire a rustic aesthetic. This article will explore the details of EasyWood, covering its specifications, providing tips for successful printing, and evaluating its overall performance.

What is FormFutura EasyWood?

EasyWood is a PLA-based composite filament infused with finely ground wood particles. This combination gives the printed object a tactile feel and visual characteristics remarkably similar to real wood. Post-processing, such as sanding and staining, further enhances the wood-like qualities, allowing for custom finishes and a genuinely unique look.

Key Specifications:

• Material: PLA (Polylactic Acid) based composite with wood fibers.
• Diameter: Typically available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm.
• Recommended Nozzle Temperature: 200-225°C (392-437°F). Always refer to the specific EasyWood variation you purchase as recommendations can vary slightly.
• Recommended Bed Temperature: 50-60°C (122-140°F) Optional. Can often print successfully on a cold bed with good adhesion strategies.
• Density: Approximately 1.25 g/cm³
• Colors Available: Varied, mimicking different types of wood like Birch, Coconut, Ebony, Olive, Pine, Willow.
• Spool Size: Typically available in 500g and 2.3kg spools.

Printing with FormFutura EasyWood: Tips for Success

Printing with EasyWood requires a bit of finesse, as the inclusion of wood particles introduces certain considerations. Here are some tips to maximize your success:

1. Nozzle Choice: A larger nozzle (0.4mm or larger) is highly recommended. Wood particles can occasionally cause clogs in smaller nozzles. A hardened steel nozzle is preferable to a brass nozzle due to the abrasive nature of the wood particles, which can wear down a brass nozzle over time.
2. Temperature Control: Start within the recommended temperature range (200-225°C) and fine-tune based on your printer and environment. Higher temperatures can result in darker prints, while lower temperatures may lead to poor layer adhesion. Experimentation is key.
3. Print Speed: Reduce your print speed compared to standard PLA. A slower print speed (40-60 mm/s) allows the filament to melt and bond properly, reducing the risk of clogging and improving layer adhesion.
4. Retraction Settings: Adjust your retraction settings carefully. Excessive retraction can pull wood particles back into the hot end, increasing the likelihood of clogs. Reduce retraction distance and speed if needed.
5. Bed Adhesion: Ensuring good bed adhesion is crucial. Use a heated bed (50-60°C) with a surface like blue painter’s tape, PEI, or glass with a glue stick. A brim can also help prevent warping.
6. Cooling: Moderate cooling fan usage is generally recommended. Excessive cooling can lead to layer separation, especially with intricate designs.
7. Storage: EasyWood, like other PLA-based filaments, is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. Store it in a sealed bag or container with desiccant packs to prevent moisture absorption, which can cause printing issues.
8. Post-Processing: EasyWood is exceptionally well-suited for post-processing. Sanding, staining, and varnishing can dramatically enhance the wood-like appearance and feel.

Considerations when using Easywood

• Clogging: Keep an eye out for clogging and clear the nozzle regularly.
• Layer Adhesion: Fine tune your settings to avoid separation of the layers.
• Brittleness: Even though the base material is PLA the wood fiber can make it more prone to bending and snapping
• Abrasion: The wood fiber is abrasive and wear out your nozzle overtime.
• Darker Prints: If temp too high it will result in darker prints.

Performance Score:

Here is a performance evaluation of FormFutura EasyWood based on the listed criteria, all out of 10:

• Print Quality: 8 - Good detail reproduction, but can vary slightly depending on the chosen wood type and print settings.
• Toughness: 6 - Less impact-resistant than standard PLA, prone to snapping under pressure.
• Flexibility: 3 - Very little flexibility, quite rigid.
• Warping: 7 - Generally less prone to warping than ABS, but can still occur with large prints or inadequate bed adhesion.
• Adhesion: 8 - Adheres well to most common print surfaces with proper preparation.
• Moisture Sensitivity: 6 - More susceptible to moisture absorption than standard PLA, requiring careful storage.
• Color Range: 7 - Good range of natural wood tones.
• Temperature Range: 8 - Relatively forgiving, but precise temperature control yields better results.
• Odor & Fumes: 9 - Minimal odor, similar to standard PLA, less potentially harmful fumes than ABS.
• Spool Winding Quality: 8 - Generally well-wound, but occasional tangles can occur.

Average Score: 7.0

Conclusion:

FormFutura EasyWood is an excellent choice for 3D printing projects where a natural wood-like appearance is desired. While it requires careful attention to printing parameters and post-processing, the results can be truly stunning. Its unique aesthetic makes it a valuable addition to any 3D printing enthusiast’s arsenal.

Written by Alex