How conductive is Conductive PLA?
Resistance of 10 cm filament length: 1.75 mm = 2-3 kohm & 2.85 mm = 800-1200 ohm 3D print resistance depends on geometry & settings.
How do I print Conductive PLA?
Conductive PLA sticks well to build plates. Use Magigoo for adhesion & release. When unwrapping a spool, secure loose filament end in your fingers, cardboard spool side corrugation, or 3d printer extruder to avoid loops & tangles.
Conductive PLA is not abrasive, but highly loaded. Clearing nozzles takes time. Purge w/ Matte Fiber. 0.6 mm nickel plated brass nozzle & heater block sock recommended. A small gap between 1st layer extrusions helps avoid restriction. Choose 2 mm internal diameter tubing like Capricorn TL (light blue) w/ no play at connections. XS (dark blue) is
A good starting point for typical 3D printers like Prusa or Creality w/ 0.6 mm nozzles is 0.63 mm extrusion width, 20 mm/s speed, & 0.25 mm layer thickness for 3 cu mm/s volume rate.
Choose the lowest fan setting for a good surface (typically 20-60%). Avoid fan speed changes, cooling slowdowns, overlaps, & gap fill. Choose infill
Consider a single wall part to verify flow, layer adhesion, & extrusion width. Adjust temp for inner-layer adhesion & flow to match physical extrusion width to software setting. Need help printing? We're here for you!