Part purpose
Separate visual models, prototypes and functional parts before comparing material directions.
Raw material library · Everyday, visual & functional directions
Common polymer platforms for everyday, visual and functional FDM programmes.
These materials often begin the conversation for familiar printing, visual direction and general-purpose functional parts. The best route still depends on the application, printer environment, finish and commercial requirements.
Before narrowing the material
Three questions that make this category more useful.
These are decision prompts, not fixed performance claims. The final material direction should reflect the application and the approved product record.
Finish & colour
Clarify opacity, transparency, texture and the intended visual experience early.
Printer context
Consider the build surface, enclosure and processing conditions that will shape the final print route.
Material guides
Open the polymer guide that matches the next question.
Each guide explains typical application directions, selection factors, process considerations, document requests and associated finished-filament pathways.
PLA
PLA · General polymers
PLA raw material
A widely used polyester feedstock for everyday FDM filament programs and visual prototypes.
PLA Open guide ↗PETG
PETG · General polymers
PETG raw material
A glycol-modified PET material platform often considered for durable, general-purpose FDM applications.
PETG Open guide ↗ABS
ABS · General polymers
ABS raw material
A conventional engineering thermoplastic used in many FDM programs that need a robust, heat-tolerant material direction.
ABS Open guide ↗PP
PP · General polymers
PP raw material
A polyolefin material platform considered for lightweight and chemically resilient FDM applications.
PP Open guide ↗Ready for a material discussion?