Copper Filled HTPLA Filament. Using real copper powder, a heat treatable premium metallic PLA filament has been created for 3D prints that feature a finish just like real metal! This copper loaded filament is as versatile as it is beautiful, it prints like plastic, but features a finish just like real metal for beautiful and durable parts from most standard 3D printers.
Finishing Techniques
Heat treat your HTPLA print to withstand harsher environments such as hot sun or a hot cleaning brush
Wire brush to uncover the metal for future oxidation or a bright, satin finish
Dab with steel balls for a darker, but smooth, shiny look
Paint the part (black for example) to fill in the indentations with a contrasting color
Polish with a rotary tool, a cotton ball and polishing compound for a bright, mirror-like finish on the high points (darken the low points)
Polish with paper for a clean, smooth, shiny finish with less darkening
Oxidize naturally exposed metal or accelerate with a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and hydrogen peroxide saturated with salt. Place in a sealed plastic bag to retain moisture. The heat will further accelerate the reaction.
Try these techniques separately or combine them! Change the order or try something new. If you discover a new technique, do something beautiful, or discover something unexpected, share it! When you've achieved the perfect, WOW finish, consider preserving it with a coat of clear varnish or an applicable water-based, food-safe, dishwasher-safe brush like Modge Podge.
Applications
Bricks or faux stones
Fixtures or hardware
Knobs or buttons
Heat sinks or heat exchangers
Fine art and sculpture
Emblems, signage or trophies
Jewelry, such as pendants or bracelets
Cosplay, game pieces or figurines
Technical specifications
Base resin: HTPLA - heat treatable PLA
Additive: Copper powder
Particle size: less than 250 microns (0.25mm)
Odor: low or none
Density: Approximately 2.30g/cc
Length (500g): 97m (1.75mm)
Printer settings
Speed: 10-20 mm/s 1st layer, 20-80 mm/s rest of part
Nozzle set-point: 185-215°C (hottest on 1st layer for best adhesion)
Effective nozzle: maintain set-point, reduce speed if less than
Nozzle type: Standard or wear-resistant for extended use
Nozzle diameter: 0.6mm or larger preferred, 0.4mm ok with 0.25mm for the more experienced
Layer thickness: 0.15-0.20mm recommended for a balance of quality, reliability and productivity
Bed temperature: Room-60°C (over 60°C can worsen warpage)
Bed preparation: Elmers purple disappearing glue stick or your other preferred PLA surface preparation
This material has been optimized for flow and has less moisture absorption than standard PLA, however composites are still sometimes more difficult to print depending on hardware and software settings. The main challenge is to keep the mass flow high (larger nozzle + fast speed) and in one direction (minimal shrinkage) to avoid overheating.