Proto-pasta Magnetic Iron Rustable Metal PLA Composite is actually ferromagnetic. It responds to magnets and behaves similarly to pure iron! Encapsulated in plastic, iron maintains a stable matte, molten metallic finish when printed, but can be rusted when desired.
That's why Proto-pasta Iron PLA is so appealing:
Weight sensation with 1.5 times the density of standard PLA
Rustable to create modern artifacts in a few simple steps
Attracts magnets (neodymium type recommended for stronger attraction)
Induction at magnetic saturation about 0,15 Tesla
Relative permeability (to air) - between 5 and 8 independent of frequency up to 1 MHz
Permeability - between 62E-7 and 100E-7 H/m independent of frequency up to 1 MHz
More thermally conductive than standard plastic
Prints as easily as PLA with less nozzle wear than steel or carbon fiber
More filament for your money - 2x the length of Bronzefill (500g Iron =1kg Bronzefill)
This filament is more abrasive than standard PLA. Be prepared to replace your nozzle and make your first layer adjustment. Try a wear resistant and/or larger diameter nozzle to increase maintenance intervals.
Usable on most PLA-compatible printers, such as Lulzbot, Makerbot, FlashForge, Dremel, Ultimaker, Printrbot and others!
In filament form, FEPLA is slightly more brittle than standard PLA and requires more care in handling.
Processing is comparable to standard PLA. A heated platen is not required. The process may be less consistent on smaller nozzles and/or bowden type systems. It is recommended to use a 0.6 mm diameter nozzle and a temperature between 190-210°C (standard PLA or a little colder) for the best experience.
Applications
Bricks or faux stones
Fixtures or hardware
Knobs or buttons
Heat sinks or heat exchangers
Fine art and sculptures
Emblems, signage or trophies
Jewelry, such as pendants or bracelets
Cosplay, game pieces or figurines
Specifications
Base resin: HTPLA - heat treatable PLA
Additive: Iron powder
Particle size: less than 250 microns (0.25mm)
Odor: low or no odor
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.