When considering materials for 3D printing car parts, especially for the interior, heat resistance is a crucial factor. Many hobbyists and car enthusiasts wonder if PLA (Polylactic Acid), a popular and easy-to-print material, is suitable for Inside Car Parts. The short answer, unfortunately, is generally no, particularly if those parts are exposed to sunlight or potential heat buildup within the vehicle.
PLA’s primary limitation in automotive applications stems from its sensitivity to higher temperatures. Even on moderately warm days, the temperature inside a car, especially on the dashboard or near windows, can climb significantly. Temperatures exceeding 50°C (122°F) are not uncommon, and in direct sunlight, these can rise even higher.
Consider a real-world example: a sun visor hinge pin printed in PLA. Even when not in direct sunlight and in a climate that rarely exceeds 29°C (85°F) externally, such a pin deformed after just one day inside a car. This deformation occurred because the ambient temperature inside the vehicle was enough to exceed PLA’s heat tolerance, even without direct sun exposure. While the replacement pin was eventually printed in PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol), even PETG showed slight deformation in extreme heat, highlighting the harsh thermal environment within a car’s interior.
While a PLA part situated lower in the car and shielded from direct sunlight might experience slightly lower temperatures, it’s still risky to rely on PLA for most inside car parts. For components that need to withstand the rigors of a car’s interior environment, especially temperature fluctuations, consider opting for more heat-resistant materials.
Several alternatives offer superior temperature performance compared to PLA, making them much better suited for inside car parts:
-
Nylon (Polyamide, PA): Nylon filaments are known for their high strength, durability, and significantly better heat resistance than PLA. They can typically withstand temperatures up to around 80°C (176°F), making them a more robust choice for many automotive interior components.
-
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): ABS is another popular 3D printing material with enhanced temperature resistance compared to PLA. It generally performs well up to around 85°C (185°F) and is commonly used for automotive parts due to its balance of toughness and heat tolerance.
-
Enhanced Co-Polymers (e.g., ASA, Amphora HT5300): These materials are engineered for higher performance, including improved temperature resistance. ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate), for example, offers UV resistance in addition to heat resistance (around 100°C or 212°F), which is beneficial for parts exposed to sunlight. Amphora HT5300 and similar materials are also designed for higher temperature applications.
-
Polypropylene (PP): PP boasts good chemical resistance and can handle temperatures up to approximately 105°C (221°F). It’s a flexible and durable option for certain inside car parts.
-
Polycarbonate (PC): For the highest heat resistance among commonly available filaments, Polycarbonate is an excellent choice. It can withstand temperatures up to 110°C (230°F) or even higher, offering exceptional thermal performance for demanding automotive applications.
For non-load-bearing and unstressed components like covers or bushings, PLA might temporarily suffice in less critical locations inside the car, but it’s generally not recommended for reliable, long-term use. It is always best to prioritize durability and safety, especially in automotive applications.
To make informed decisions about material selection, consulting technical data sheets for specific filaments is highly recommended. For example, Ultimaker’s data sheets highlight the limitations of PLA and Nylon regarding temperature exposure:
PLA: “Not suitable for long term outdoor usage or applications where the printed part is exposed to temperatures higher than 50 °C (122 °F).” PLA Technical Data
Nylon: “Not suitable for applications where the printed part is exposed to temperatures higher than 80 °C (176 °F).” Nylon Technical Data
In summary, while PLA is a versatile material for many 3D printing projects, its low heat resistance makes it unsuitable for most inside car parts that may be exposed to heat buildup. Choosing materials like Nylon, ABS, ASA, PP, or PC will ensure greater durability and longevity for your 3D printed automotive components. Always consider the specific requirements of the part and the potential temperature extremes within your car’s interior when selecting a 3D printing material.
