When it comes to creating custom components for your vehicle, 3D printing offers exciting possibilities. However, selecting the appropriate material is crucial, especially when considering parts that will be used In Car Parts. One common 3D printing filament, Polylactic Acid (PLA), might seem like a convenient option, but its heat sensitivity can make it unsuitable for many automotive applications.
PLA, while popular for its ease of use and biodegradability, has a relatively low glass transition temperature. This means it starts to soften and deform at temperatures as low as 50°C (122°F). Consider the interior of a car parked in the sun, even on a moderately warm day. Temperatures inside can quickly exceed this threshold, leading to warping, sagging, or even complete failure of PLA components.
Personal experiences highlight this limitation. For instance, a sun visor hinge pin printed in PLA, even when not in direct sunlight, deformed after just one day in a car exposed to temperatures around 29°C (85°F). While the initial intention was simply for test fitting, this demonstrated PLA’s inadequacy for even mildly demanding in car parts applications. Even switching to PETG, a more heat-resistant material, showed slight deformation under intense car heat, indicating that material selection is paramount.
For durable and reliable in car parts, especially those exposed to heat, consider materials engineered for higher temperatures. Nylon (Polyamide, PA), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), and ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) are significantly more heat resistant than PLA. Specialty Co-Polymers, like Amphora HT5300, also offer enhanced thermal performance. These materials maintain their structural integrity at higher temperatures, ensuring longevity and functionality for in car parts.
Material datasheets provide essential guidance. PLA is explicitly noted as “not suitable for applications where the printed part is exposed to temperatures higher than 50 °C (122 °F).” Nylon, while better, also has limitations, recommended for applications below 80 °C (176 °F). For a broader perspective, consider these general maximum operating temperatures for prolonged exposure:
- Basic Co-Polymers: ~70 °C (158 °F)
- ABS: ~85 °C (185 °F)
- Enhanced Co-Polymers and ASA: ~100 °C (212 °F)
- Polypropylene (PP): ~105 °C (221 °F)
- Polycarbonate (PC): ~110 °C (230 °F)
While PLA might be acceptable for non-load-bearing, low-stress components in cooler areas of the car, it’s generally advisable to choose a more temperature-resistant material for most in car parts. Prioritizing material selection based on thermal properties will ensure your 3D-printed automotive components can withstand the rigors of the vehicle environment.
