Published on Sun Jun 04 2023 19:31:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Crafting Metallic Magic: A Deep Dive into ColorFabb bronzeFill

ColorFabb bronzeFill is a unique filament that allows 3D printing enthusiasts to create objects with a distinct metallic look and feel. It’s not just a plastic infused with color; it’s a composite material containing roughly 80% bronze powder, blended with a PLA-based binder. This gives printed parts a substantial weight, a cold-to-the-touch sensation, and the ability to be post-processed in ways that regular PLA simply cannot. Let’s explore the world of bronzeFill, from its specifications to how to get the most out of it.

Understanding the Specs: bronzeFill Under the Microscope

Before diving into printing strategies, it’s crucial to understand the technical details of this intriguing filament:

• Material Composition: ~80% Bronze Powder / ~20% PLA
• Diameter: Typically available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm (check with your supplier for specific options)
• Density: 3.9 – 4.1 g/cm³ (significantly higher than standard PLA)
• Recommended Printing Temperature: 190-220°C (start lower and increase as needed)
• Recommended Bed Temperature: 50-60°C (with a heated bed)
• Print Speed: 40-60 mm/s (lower speeds often yield better results)
• Cooling: Minimal or no cooling fan recommended
• Bed Adhesion: Requires good bed adhesion; consider using a PEI sheet, glass bed with glue stick, or BuildTak.
• Nozzle: A hardened steel nozzle is highly recommended due to the abrasive nature of the bronze powder. A standard brass nozzle will wear down quickly.

Taming the Bronze Beast: Usage Tips and Tricks

Printing with bronzeFill isn’t quite the same as printing with standard PLA. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• The Nozzle is Key: As mentioned above, a hardened steel nozzle is crucial. The bronze particles will abrade a brass nozzle, leading to inconsistent extrusion and eventual failure.
• Slow and Steady Wins the Race: Print speeds should be moderate to low. Rushing the print can lead to under-extrusion or clogging.
• Temperature Control: Dial in your temperature carefully. Start at the lower end of the recommended range (190°C) and increase in 5°C increments until you achieve smooth extrusion.
• Retraction Settings: Fine-tune your retraction settings to minimize stringing. Too much retraction can cause clogs.
• Layer Height: Use a layer height that is appropriate for your nozzle size. A general rule is to keep the layer height between 25% and 75% of the nozzle diameter.
• Bed Adhesion: Good bed adhesion is vital. Use a heated bed and apply a suitable adhesive like glue stick to ensure the print sticks to the bed. If you have a PEI sheet, clean it well.
• Enclosure: An enclosure isn’t strictly necessary, but it can help to maintain a more consistent temperature around the print, which can improve adhesion and reduce warping.
• Post-Processing is Where the Magic Happens: The real beauty of bronzeFill is revealed through post-processing. Sanding, polishing, and even tumbling can bring out a stunning metallic sheen.

Unlocking the Metallic Sheen: Post-Processing bronzeFill

This is where your bronzeFill prints go from “interesting 3D prints” to “convincing metallic objects.” Here’s a common post-processing workflow:

1. Sanding: Start with a coarse grit sandpaper (e.g., 220 grit) to remove support structures and layer lines. Gradually move to finer grits (e.g., 400, 600, 800 grit) for a smoother surface. Wet sanding can also be beneficial.
2. Polishing: Use a polishing compound and a rotary tool (like a Dremel) with a polishing wheel to bring out the shine. Start with a coarser compound and move to a finer one.
3. Sealing (Optional): If you want to protect the polished finish, consider applying a clear sealant. This will help prevent oxidation and maintain the shine.
4. Antiquing (Optional): For a more weathered look, you can use chemical treatments like liver of sulfur to create a patina.

Evaluating ColorFabb bronzeFill: Our Scores

Based on our experience and community feedback, here’s an evaluation of ColorFabb bronzeFill on various aspects:

• Print Quality: 8/10 - Can produce detailed prints with careful calibration, but requires attention to temperature and speed.
• Toughness: 6/10 - More brittle than standard PLA, due to the high metal content.
• Flexibility: 2/10 - Very little flexibility; parts are rigid.
• Warping: 7/10 - Can warp, especially with larger prints. A heated bed and proper adhesion are crucial.
• Adhesion: 7/10 - Requires good bed adhesion practices.
• Moisture Sensitivity: 8/10 - More susceptible to moisture than standard PLA. Store in a dry environment.
• Color Range: 3/10 - Limited to a bronze color. Post-processing is key to achieving different metallic tones.
• Temperature Range: 7/10 - Relatively narrow temperature range, requiring precise calibration.
• Odor & Fumes: 8/10 - Similar odor to standard PLA, not overly strong.
• Spool Winding Quality: 9/10 - ColorFabb is known for excellent spool winding.

Average Score: 6.5/10

This assessment considers both the inherent properties of a metal-filled filament and the specific challenges it presents. While bronzeFill demands a more attentive printing process than standard PLA, the potential for creating stunning, realistic-looking metallic objects makes it a worthwhile material for experienced 3D printing enthusiasts.

Written by Alex