A Guide to Nylon Filament: Functional 3D Printing 

A Guide to Nylon Filament: Functional 3D Printing 

Nylon is a versatile and highly durable material that has become a staple in the 3D printing world, particularly for functional parts and engineering applications. If you’re exploring high-performance filaments, Nylon is worth considering for its unique properties and wide range of applications.

This article delves into what Nylon filament is, its physical attributes, the different types of Nylon available, and the advantages and disadvantages of using this filament in FDM 3D printing.

What is Nylon Filament?

Nylon, also known as polyamide, is a synthetic polymer commonly used in industries like automotive, textiles, and consumer goods. For 3D printing, it is offered in filament form, specifically engineered for FDM printers. Nylon filament is prized for its strength, flexibility, and resistance to wear and tear. These attributes make it ideal for parts requiring durability and precision.

Unlike more common filaments like PLA or PETG, Nylon has a higher printing difficulty level but rewards the effort with exceptional results for demanding applications.

Physical Attributes of Nylon Filament

1. Strength and Durability: Nylon offers superior mechanical strength and is highly resistant to impact, wear, and fatigue.

2. Flexibility: It combines strength with flexibility, allowing parts to bend without breaking.

3. Chemical Resistance: Nylon resists many chemicals, including oils, greases, and solvents, making it suitable for industrial applications.

4. Low Friction: Its naturally low coefficient of friction makes it ideal for moving parts like gears and bearings.

5. Moisture Sensitivity: Nylon is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air, which can affect its printing performance and final properties if not properly stored.

6. Heat Resistance: Nylon performs well under moderate heat, withstanding temperatures up to approximately 100°C depending on the type.

Types of Nylon Filament

There are several types of Nylon, each with distinct properties. The most common types for 3D printing are Nylon 6, Nylon 12, and Nylon 66.

1. Nylon 6:

   • Strong and durable with excellent mechanical properties.

   • Higher moisture absorption compared to other Nylons, which can impact dimensional stability.

   • Commonly used for functional prototypes and mechanical parts.

2. Nylon 12:

   • Lower moisture absorption, making it more dimensionally stable.

   • Slightly less durable than Nylon 6 but still highly reliable.

   • Ideal for lightweight, flexible parts like brackets and enclosures.

3. Nylon 66:

   • Exceptional strength and heat resistance.

   • Used for high-stress applications requiring long-term durability.

   • More challenging to print due to higher melting points.

4. Nylon 6/66 (Blended):

   • Combines the best properties of Nylon 6 and Nylon 66.

   • Offers a balance of strength, flexibility, and heat resistance.

5. Specialty Nylons (e.g., Carbon Fiber Reinforced):

   • Blended with additives like carbon fiber for enhanced stiffness and reduced weight.

   • Suitable for aerospace, automotive, and high-performance engineering applications.

Applications of Nylon Filament

Nylon is widely used in industries where durability and reliability are paramount. Common applications include:

1. Mechanical Parts:

   • Gears, hinges, bearings, and bushings benefit from Nylon’s low friction and high strength.

2. Prototyping:

   • Ideal for creating functional prototypes that undergo rigorous testing.

3. Consumer Goods:

   • Used for durable items like tool handles, phone cases, and clips.

4. Industrial Use:

   • Common in creating jigs, fixtures, and machine parts.

5. Wearables:

   • Flexible and lightweight, Nylon is used for making straps, buckles, and protective gear.

Advantages of Nylon Filament

1. High Strength and Durability: Nylon produces parts that are tough, wear-resistant, and long-lasting.

2. Flexibility: The material can bend without breaking, making it perfect for functional parts requiring flexibility.

3. Versatility: With various types and blends available, Nylon can cater to a wide range of applications.

4. Heat and Chemical Resistance: Nylon’s resistance to heat and chemicals enhances its reliability in demanding environments.

5. Smooth Surface Finish: Nylon parts often have a sleek, polished look, suitable for end-use products.

Disadvantages of Nylon Filament

1. Moisture Sensitivity: Nylon’s hygroscopic nature makes it prone to absorbing moisture, which can lead to printing issues like bubbling, poor adhesion, and reduced mechanical properties.

2. High Printing Temperature: Nylon requires higher nozzle temperatures (230-270°C) and a heated bed (70-100°C), which might not be supported by basic printers.

3. Warping: Nylon’s high shrinkage rate during cooling can cause warping, requiring an enclosed printer or careful temperature management.

4. Storage Challenges: Proper storage in a dry environment (using desiccant packs or filament dryers) is essential to maintain its quality.

5. Cost: Nylon is more expensive than standard filaments like PLA or ABS, especially for specialty blends.

Printing Tips for Nylon Filament

To get the most out of Nylon filament, follow these best practices:

• Nozzle Temperature: Set between 230-270°C depending on the specific Nylon type.

• Bed Temperature: Use a heated bed set to 70-100°C to minimize warping.

• Adhesion: Apply adhesives like glue sticks or use specialized surfaces like Garolite to enhance bed adhesion.

• Enclosure: Use an enclosed printer to maintain consistent temperature and reduce warping.

• Dry Storage: Store Nylon in airtight containers with desiccant to prevent moisture absorption.

• Retraction Settings: Fine-tune retraction to prevent stringing and oozing during printing.

Conclusion

Nylon filament is a powerhouse material in the FDM 3D printing world, offering unmatched strength, flexibility, and versatility. While it demands careful handling and precise printing conditions, its benefits make it an excellent choice for professional and industrial applications.

Whether you’re creating functional prototypes, mechanical parts, or consumer goods, Nylon’s performance justifies its challenges. By understanding the differences between Nylon types and adopting best practices, you can unlock the full potential of this remarkable filament and elevate your 3D printing projects.