Choosing the right material is one of the most important steps in the 3D printing process. Depending on the application, requirements for strength, temperature resistance, flexibility, and surface quality vary considerably. At Brinktec in Cologne, we advise our customers daily on selecting the appropriate printing material for prototypes, spare parts, or small production runs.
Why the choice of material is crucial
A 3D-printed component is only as good as the material it's made from. Whether a part can be used permanently outdoors, whether it replaces a seal, or whether it serves as a functional prototype – all of this depends directly on the material properties.
In addition to mechanical strength and temperature resistance, factors such as UV stability, chemical resistance, color, reworkability and cost also play a role.
Overview of the most common materials in 3D printing
PLA – the entry-level and prototype material
PLA is the most commonly used filament for FDM 3D printing. It is easy to process and offers good surface quality.
Advantages: good dimensional stability, low deformation, biodegradable.
Applications: Design models, demonstration objects, simple holders.
Disadvantage: low temperature resistance (approx. 60 °C).
PETG – robust, transparent and versatile
PETG combines strength with flexibility and is ideal for functional prototypes and mechanically stressed parts.
Advantages: high impact strength, chemical resistant, temperature stable up to approx. 80 °C.
Areas of application: Housings, machine parts, protective covers.
Tip: PETG is the standard material at Brinktec for many technical applications.
ASA – the weatherproof alternative to ABS
ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) offers excellent UV and weather resistance without the processing problems of ABS.
Advantages: colorfast, temperature-resistant, ideal for outdoor applications.
Areas of application: Vehicle parts, exterior covers, signage.
PA (Nylon) – high strength and abrasion-resistant
Nylon is a high-performance technical material characterized by its toughness and wear resistance.
Advantages: very durable, smooth-gliding, chemically resistant.
Applications: Gears, bearings, functional assemblies.
Extension: With carbon or glass fiber reinforcement, PA becomes extremely stiff and lightweight – perfect for industrial use.
Flexible materials (TPU, TPE)
Elastic materials are used for dampers, seals or soft-touch components.
Advantages: stretchable, shock-absorbing, non-slip.
Applications: Vibration dampers, handles, protective covers.
Special materials at Brinktec
In addition to standard filaments, we also offer high-performance technical materials , such as:
-
PC (polycarbonate) for heat-resistant functional parts
-
PP (polypropylene) for chemically resistant components
-
Iglidur® materials from igus® for self-lubricating bearings
-
Carbon fiber reinforced compounds for maximum stiffness at low weight
This is how material consultation works at Brinktec.
At Brinktec, we support you right from the planning phase:
-
We analyze the mechanical and thermal requirements of your component.
-
We will advise you on the optimal printing technology (FDM, SLA, SLS).
-
We produce material samples for functional testing upon request.
-
And we also handle rework, painting or assembly .
Conclusion: The right equipment saves time, money, and stress.
A well-informed choice of material determines the quality and lifespan of your 3D printed part. Whether functional prototypes, spare parts for classic cars, or small production runs for industry – Brinktec offers you the right combination of material, process, and experience.
→ Request a quote now, no obligation:
www.brinktec.de/kontakt
0 comments