Material Guide: PLA & PLA+
The budget king. When to use PLA for prototyping vs when it will melt in your car.
Material Guide: PLA & PLA+
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the most common 3D printing material. It smells like waffles when printing. It’s cheap. It’s easy.
When to use it
- Rapid Prototyping: “Will this camera fit here?” Print it in PLA in 15 minutes.
- Low Stress Parts: Sensor mounts, decorative covers, cable clips.
- Specific Geometries: PLA is very distinct because it is stiff. It does not bend; it snaps.
The Danger Zone
PLA has a low “Glass Transition Temperature” (approx 60°C).
- Do not use for motors: A hot motor will melt a PLA mount.
- Do not leave in the car: Your robot will warp if left in a hot trunk.
PLA+ (The Upgrade)
Always buy PLA+. It has additives that make it less brittle. It is the standard for 80% of FTC parts.
Verdict
Use it for everything except the drivetrain and motor mounts.