Published on Wed Sep 20 2023 08:48:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Polymaker PolyLite PLA: Your Go-To Filament? A Deep Dive

Polymaker has carved a niche for itself in the 3D printing world, consistently offering high-quality filaments at competitive prices. Among their offerings, PolyLite PLA stands out as a popular choice for both beginners and seasoned makers. But what exactly makes it so appealing? Let’s dive into a detailed look at this versatile filament.

What is PolyLite PLA?

PolyLite PLA is Polymaker’s answer to the “everyday” PLA filament. It’s designed to be easy to print, reliable, and suitable for a wide range of applications. It’s positioned as a solid all-rounder, balancing affordability with decent performance.

Key Specifications

Here’s a breakdown of the key specifications you’ll want to consider when using PolyLite PLA:

• Diameter: 1.75mm (typically with a tolerance of ±0.03mm) and 2.85mm.
• Recommended Printing Temperature: 190-230°C (This can vary depending on your printer and environment, so experimentation is key).
• Recommended Bed Temperature: 25-60°C (Heated bed is generally recommended, but can often print successfully with a cold bed with good adhesion techniques).
• Printing Speed: 40-60mm/s (Again, this is a starting point; you might be able to push it faster depending on your printer and the complexity of the model).
• Density: 1.24 g/cm³
• Glass Transition Temperature: ~60°C (Important for understanding its heat resistance).

Usage Tips for Optimal Results

While PolyLite PLA is generally easy to print, following these tips can help you achieve the best results:

• Temperature Tuning is Key: Start within the recommended temperature range and fine-tune based on your printer. Stringing? Lower the temperature slightly. Poor layer adhesion? Bump it up a bit.
• Bed Adhesion Matters: A clean bed is crucial. Use isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to wipe down the print surface before each print. A thin layer of glue stick can also improve adhesion, especially for larger parts.
• Cooling is Your Friend: PLA benefits from good cooling. Ensure your printer’s part cooling fan is operating effectively. You might need to adjust the fan speed depending on the print geometry.
• Retraction Settings are Important: Experiment with retraction distance and speed to minimize stringing. Common starting points are 4-6mm retraction distance and 40-60mm/s retraction speed.
• Dry it Out: PLA is hygroscopic (it absorbs moisture from the air). If you’re experiencing inconsistent print quality, popping noises during printing, or increased stringing, consider drying the filament using a filament dryer or a low-temperature oven.
• First Layer is Crucial: Ensure your first layer is properly calibrated. The nozzle should be close enough to the bed to squish the filament slightly, creating a good bond.

PolyLite PLA: Judged

Okay, let’s rate PolyLite PLA based on the criteria you’ve provided, on a scale of 1-10:

• Print Quality: 8 - It generally produces smooth, detailed prints with minimal imperfections when dialed in correctly.
• Toughness: 6 - It’s decent for everyday use, but not ideal for parts requiring high impact resistance.
• Flexibility: 3 - PLA is inherently brittle, and PolyLite PLA is no exception. It’s not a flexible filament.
• Warping: 7 - Warping is relatively minimal, especially with a heated bed and proper bed adhesion techniques.
• Adhesion: 8 - Excellent adhesion to the bed and between layers when printing settings are correct.
• Moisture Sensitivity: 6 - PLA is hygroscopic but relatively less than other polymers.
• Color Range: 9 - Polymaker offers a wide and impressive variety of colors in the PolyLite PLA lineup.
• Temperature Range: 7 - Relatively narrow range, requiring careful temperature control for optimal results.
• Odor & Fumes: 9 - Very low odor compared to other filaments like ABS.
• Spool Winding Quality: 8 - Polymaker typically has good spool winding, minimizing tangles and printing interruptions.

Average Score: 7.1

Is PolyLite PLA Right for You?

PolyLite PLA is a strong contender for being your “go-to” PLA filament. Its ease of use, wide availability, and decent performance make it a solid choice for a variety of projects. By understanding its strengths and weaknesses, and by following the usage tips outlined above, you can get the most out of this versatile filament.

Written by Alex