Silk PLA is a type of PLA filament that has been blended with additional polymers to give it a glossy, matte-like look. It is also more flexible than standard PLA, which can affect its printability and performance. Here are some considerations and adjustments you need to make when switching to silk PLA filament that contains TPU, such as silk PLA.
Print Temperature
Silk PLA filaments usually have a similar print temperature range as regular PLA, which is around 180 to 220°C. However, the exact temperature may vary depending on the brand and the amount of polymer added to the blend. You may need to experiment with different temperatures to find the optimal one for your silk PLA filament. A good way to do this is to print a temperature tower and see which layer has the best quality and adhesion.
Print Speed
Silk PLA filaments can be printed at a similar speed as regular PLA, which is around 30 to 80 mm/s. However, you may want to slow down your print speed if you encounter clogging or stringing issues, as silk PLA can be more prone to these problems due to its flexibility and glossiness. You may also want to reduce your retraction distance and speed, as too much retraction can cause jamming or under-extrusion.
Heated Bed Temperature
Silk PLA filaments do not require a heated bed, as they have good adhesion to most surfaces. However, if you have a heated bed, you can use it at a low temperature of around 60 to 80°C to improve the first layer adhesion and prevent warping. You may also want to use a glue stick, hairspray, or blue tape to increase the bed adhesion and make it easier to remove the print.
Cooling Fan
Silk PLA filaments benefit from using a cooling fan, as it helps to improve the layer cooling and prevent sagging or drooping of the overhangs and bridges. You can use your cooling fan at full speed or adjust it according to your print quality and settings. However, you may want to turn off your cooling fan for the first few layers to ensure good bed adhesion.
Post-Processing
Silk PLA filaments produce prints that have a shiny and smooth surface, which makes them ideal for decorative items or models. You may not need any post-processing for your silk PLA prints, as they already look polished and attractive. However, if you want to improve the appearance or durability of your prints, you can use some post-processing methods such as sanding, painting, or coating. You can also use a heat gun or a hair dryer to smooth out any imperfections or stringing on your prints.