Published on Fri Mar 01 2024 03:35:31 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Prusament PLA Lipstick Red: A Deep Dive into Fiery 3D Printing

Prusament PLA Lipstick Red is a vibrant and captivating filament that promises to inject a dose of boldness into your 3D printing projects. More than just a pretty color, this filament boasts Prusa’s renowned quality and consistency. Let’s delve into the specifications, usage tips, and a balanced assessment of this head-turning filament.

Detailed Specifications:

• Material: Polylactic Acid (PLA)
• Diameter: 1.75 mm (tolerance +/- 0.02 mm)
• Spool Weight: 1 kg
• Density: 1.24 g/cm³
• Glass Transition Temperature: 55°C
• Recommended Nozzle Temperature: 215 ± 10 °C
• Recommended Bed Temperature: 60 ± 10 °C
• Shrinkage: Very low (minimal warping risk)
• Certification: Prusament is meticulously tested for consistent diameter, color uniformity, and mechanical properties. Each spool is individually labeled with batch information for traceability.
• Color: Lipstick Red (a deep, saturated red with a glossy finish)

Usage Tips for Optimal Results:

• Preparation is Key: Ensure your print bed is clean and properly leveled. A PEI sheet is generally recommended for PLA. A thin layer of glue stick (optional) can further enhance adhesion, especially for larger prints.
• Temperature Tuning: While the recommended temperatures are a good starting point, experimentation is crucial. Adjust the nozzle temperature in small increments (e.g., 5°C) to find the sweet spot for your printer and ambient conditions. Higher temperatures can improve layer adhesion and gloss but may also lead to stringing.
• Cooling: PLA benefits from ample cooling. Use the part cooling fan to promote rapid solidification and reduce the risk of warping, particularly for intricate designs with overhangs.
• Print Speed: A moderate print speed is generally advisable. Excessive speeds can compromise print quality and layer adhesion. A starting point of 40-60 mm/s is recommended, adjusting based on the complexity of the model.
• Storage: PLA is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. Store the filament in a dry, airtight container with desiccant packets to prevent degradation and ensure optimal print quality. If the filament absorbs too much moisture, baking it in a filament dryer or oven at a low temperature (40-50°C) for a few hours can help restore its printability.
• First Layer Perfection: A well-adhered first layer is crucial for a successful print. Ensure the nozzle is close enough to the bed to create a slightly squished layer, but not so close that it obstructs filament flow.
• Support Structures: Use appropriately designed support structures when printing models with significant overhangs or complex geometries. Consider using soluble support materials (e.g., PVA) for intricate parts where easy removal is desired.

Filament Assessment (Out of 10):

• Print Quality: 9/10 - Delivers smooth surfaces and excellent detail reproduction when dialed in correctly.
• Toughness: 6/10 - PLA is generally not known for extreme toughness compared to materials like PETG or ABS. It’s suitable for decorative items and prototypes but may not withstand heavy loads or impacts.
• Flexibility: 3/10 - PLA is relatively rigid and not very flexible.
• Warping: 9/10 - Warping is minimal due to PLA’s low shrinkage.
• Adhesion: 8/10 - Excellent adhesion to PEI sheets with proper bed leveling and temperature settings.
• Moisture Sensitivity: 6/10 - PLA is moderately sensitive to moisture; proper storage is essential.
• Color Range: N/A (Specific to Lipstick Red)
• Temperature Range: 7/10 - Relatively narrow temperature range compared to some other filaments, requiring careful tuning.
• Odor & Fumes: 9/10 - PLA has a mild, slightly sweet odor that is generally not considered harmful.
• Spool Winding Quality: 10/10 - Prusament is known for its excellent spool winding, minimizing tangles and print failures.

Average Score: 7.6/10

Conclusion:

Prusament PLA Lipstick Red is a high-quality filament that excels in print quality, ease of use (low warping), and vibrant color. While it may not be the toughest or most flexible material, its excellent printability and attractive finish make it a great choice for a wide range of 3D printing projects. Proper storage and temperature tuning are essential for achieving optimal results, but the effort is well worth it. This filament is a solid choice for both beginners and experienced 3D printing enthusiasts.

Written by Alex