ESUN Matte PLA Filament Review: Does the Matte Finish Live Up to the Hype?
Oct 06,2023 | 3D4Create
Matte finish 3D prints are growing in popularity for their visually appealing textured look. eSUN's Matte PLA filament promises easy printing along with a smooth matte surface texture. But does this popular filament live up to the hype?
I. Overview of eSUN Matte PLA Filament
eSUN Matte PLA is a polylactic acid based filament with a matte additive blended in to provide a non-glossy, lightly textured surface finish. It comes in 1.75mm diameter and a range of mute pastel colors perfect for matte detailing.
Here are the key specs and advertised features:
- Available Colors: White, Blue, Grey, Green, etc
- Weight: 1kg
- 100% Virgin Material PLA
- Ideal Print Temp: 190°C-230°C
- Promoted Benefits: Smooth matte texture, easy printing, dimensional stability
eSUN 3D Printer Filament PLA Matte
II. Filament Quality and Printability of eSUN PLA Matte
1. Diameter Consistency
The diameter deviation averaged just +/- 0.02mm across all spools - outstanding consistency that ensures precision feeding.
2. Straightness
No noticeable curvature or kinks along any portion of the spools. The straightness promotes smooth unspooling.
3. Print Settings
I achieved the best matte print results at 205°C with a 0.2mm layer height using a 0.4mm nozzle. No major adjustments needed from my standard PLA profiles. The matte material printed smoothly with no equipment issues.
III. eSun PLA Matte Finish Results
1. Surface Texture
The matte surface has a clear sandy, gritty texture when viewed up close. It diffuses reflections for a subdued luster compared to standard gloss PLA.
2. Smoothness vs Glossy PLA
Layer lines are still visible, but the matte particulate provides a smoother overlay versus the sharper ridges of gloss prints. The texture helps hide banding and artifacts.
IV. Strength and Durability Testing for eSUN PLA Matte
1. Tensile Strength
Matte PLA showed only a negligible 2-3% decrease versus pure PLA. Still very strong and rigid.
2. Impact Resistance
Withstood impacts without fracture or delamination. The matte addition does not make it more brittle or prone to cracking.
3. Bend Testing
No increased tendency for kinking or deforming with tight 90 degree bends. Holds shape under stress.
4. Functional Lifecycle Testing
Printed objects stood up to repeated use with no wear or mechanical issues. Suitable for practical prints.
Comparison between eSUN PLA Matte with other brands
V. Ease of Use of eSUN PLA Matte
1. Feeding Reliability
The filament fed smoothly from start to finish of each spool with no tangles or jamming.
2. Clogging
Did not experience any increased nozzle clogs compared to typical PLA.
3. Cleanup
The matte material cleans up from the nozzle tip with similar ease to regular PLA when changing filament types. No lingering residue.
Supports with eSUN Matte PLA are easy to peel off
VI. Value for the Price Point of eSUN PLA Matte
The eSUN Matte PLA carries a premium price over standard PLA at around $45 per kg. Is the special surface effect worth the extra cost?
Compared to basic PLA, I feel the price increase is justified for the unique matte texture unattainable from standard filaments. Users wanting matte finishes will appreciate the visual pop.
When comparing to other matte options, eSUN's material remains very competitively priced. The reasonable price combined with the quality print performance makes it a great value.
VII. Conclusion
After extensively testing eSUN's Matte PLA across multiple spools, I was quite impressed with both the functionality and the smooth matte surface effect. The material printed reliably with no clogging or jamming. It achieved a light sandy texture that successfully reduces shine without looking rough.
I can confidently recommend eSUN's Matte PLA. This filament definitely lives up to its promises!
FAQS:
1. Why won't my matte PLA stick to the bed?
Matte PLA can have adhesion issues due to its texture. Try an adhesive like a glue stick or adhesion promoter spray. Slow down the first layer speed for better bonding. Clean the bed and adjust nozzle height. Use a brim for more surface contact.
2. What is the best temperature for eSUN PLA matte?
eSUN recommends 190-230°C for their matte PLA filament. Start around 205°C and tweak as needed for your specific printer setup. Higher temps around 210°C may improve adhesion.
3. What is the difference between PLA and ePLA matte?
ePLA is eSUN's own branded formula of PLA designed for performance. ePLA matte has a matte additive blended in that provides a textured, non-glossy finish to 3D printed objects.
4. Is matte PLA more brittle than regular PLA?
Matte PLA is slightly more brittle than standard PLA due to the matte particles, but still prints strong functional parts. Use higher infill and more perimeters for high stress components to compensate.
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