3D Printed PLA

Pla is a practical material choice when you need the right balance of performance, finish, and cost for functional parts.

PLA – Fast, Affordable and Perfect for Prototypes That Look the Part

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the most common 3D printing material out there — and for good reason. It’s easy to print, holds its shape well, and doesn’t require high-end machines to get decent results. It’s not the toughest plastic, and it won’t survive under the bonnet of a car, but for quick prototypes, visual models, and non-load-bearing parts, PLA is more than enough.

We use it regularly when a customer needs something turned around quickly. Whether it’s a test fit, design mock-up, or something just for visual approval — PLA keeps it simple, keeps it clean, and keeps the cost down.

Key Technical Specifications (Typical Values)

• Tensile strength: 50–70 MPa • Elongation at break: 6–10% • Heat deflection temperature: 55–65°C • Density: ~1.25 g/cm³ • Impact resistance: Low to moderate • Surface finish: Matte to semi-gloss (depending on brand) • UV resistance: Poor – not suitable for outdoor use • Biodegradability: Good – derived from corn starch or sugarcane

It’s rigid, prints fine detail, and looks great — but don’t expect it to handle high stress or heat.

Why Engineers Still Use PLA

Even though it’s not the strongest, PLA has its uses. Engineers often use it when: • They need a design model quickly • They’re checking part tolerances or alignment • They’re doing form and fit testing • Cost or turnaround time is more important than performance • Parts are only needed for temporary or internal use

You won’t use PLA for a production bracket — but for getting a concept off the ground, it's spot-on.

Real-World Applications

At Mitchell & Son, we’ve printed PLA parts for: • Product mock-ups for client meetings • Quick prototypes for early-stage testing • Low-risk internal covers and guides • Desktop mounts and stands • Educational tools and concept models

We’ve even helped startups get investor-ready by printing whole product shells in PLA — just to get eyes on the design before any tooling happens.

Why Engineers Still Use PLA

Even though it’s not the strongest, PLA has its uses. Engineers often use it when: • They need a design model quickly • They’re checking part tolerances or alignment • They’re doing form and fit testing • Cost or turnaround time is more important than performance • Parts are only needed for temporary or internal use

You won’t use PLA for a production bracket — but for getting a concept off the ground, it's spot-on.

What to Know When Printing PLA

PLA’s easy to work with — but you still need to do it right: • Print temp: 190–220°C • Bed temp: 50–60°C (though it’ll often print fine without one) • Doesn’t warp much, so it’s good for larger flat parts • Doesn’t like heat or sun — don’t leave it in a hot car • Brittle under stress, so avoid sharp bends or load-bearing designs

We always ask the customer: “Is this cosmetic, or does it have a job to do?” If it’s just for show, PLA’s perfect. If it’s got to take stress — we look elsewhere.

FAQs