Stainless Steel Metal Composite PLA - Blue color
Stainless Steel Metal Composite PLA - Blue color
Stainless Steel Metal Composite PLA - Blue color
Stainless Steel Metal Composite PLA - Blue color
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Stainless Steel Metal Composite PLA - Blue color

SKU: SSP11701-BLU

$12.00 USD for 1.75mm / 100g Coil
$12.00 USD for 1.75mm / 100g Coil
Shipping calculated at checkout.
12 in stock
Diameter: 1.75mm
Size: 100g Coil

Real metal 3D prints!

  • 60wt% stainless steel powder in PLA
  • Prints like PLA, but 2x the weight
  • Matte, cast metal look when printed
  • Finish w/ polishing paper for shine
  • More about finishing in our blog
  • 400-series stainless is magnetic too
  • Wear resistant nozzle suggested
  • From Jan 2025 Endless Exploration
  • USA made Protopasta exclusive
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More product details

 

Technical Data Sheets

Technical data sheets available for download here. 
Safety Data Sheets

Safety data sheets available for download here.
Shipping

We provide a number of domestic shipping options within the United States via UPS, including free shipping on orders of $50 or more. We also provide international shipping via DHL Express.
Returns

At ProtoPlant's discretion, returns and replacements will be accepted within 90 days of purchase.  Please check the material label before opening your product.  Only sealed product can be returned. Shipping of items for exchange or refund is paid by the customer. More information about returns and replacements can be found in our terms and conditions. 

Prints like plastic, polishes like metal!

Introducing Stainless Steel-Filled Metal Composite PLA. Using real steel powder, we've created a premium metal PLA filament for 3D prints that finish just like real stainless steel! Our steel composite filament is as versatile as it is beautiful, printing like plastic, but finishing like real metal for beautiful, durable parts from most standard 3D printers.

We suggest experimenting with polishing using this polishing paper kit (includes instructional video).

**This filament is more abrasive than standard PLA. Be prepared to replace your nozzle and other soft inline components. Try a wear resistant and/or larger diameter nozzle for less maintenance.

In filament form it's normal for SS PLA not to bend much before breaking. This typically does not affect it's ability to print. Print like PLA at a wide range of temperatures. We typically use standard 0.4mm opening nozzles, but 0.6mm helps increase volume rate and avoid heat creep. Metal particles are small and do not make clogs.

 

Finishing Techniques

Whether you want a bright polish or weathered look, the possibilities are endless with metal PLA filament. Here are some finishing techniques for metal composite filaments you might want to try:


  • Wire Brush to expose metal for future oxidation or a bright, satin finish
  • Rock tumble with steel shot for darker, but smooth, shiny look
  • Paint part to fill recesses with a contrasting color
  • Polish with paper for a clean, smooth, and bright finish
  • Patina (oxidize) exposed metal naturally or accelerate with vinegar, water or peroxide, and salt. Place in sealed plastic bag to retain moisture. Heat further accelerates reaction. Not applicable to stainless steel.
Try these techniques separately or combine! Change the order or try something new. If you discover a new technique, make something beautiful, or discover something unexpected, share it! When you've got that perfect, WOW finish, consider preserving it with a clear coat or brush applicable water-based, food-safe, and dishwasher safe coating like Modge Podge. Practice your finishing a on a test piece like Protognome (download here).

Now the only question is, "What will you make?"

Applications

Some application ideas include:
  • Faux brick or stone
  • Fixtures or hardware
  • Knobs or buttons
  • Heat sinks or exchangers
  • Fine art & sculpture
  • Emblems, signage, or trophies
  • Jewelry, like pendants or bracelets
  • Cosplay, game pieces, or figurines

Material Data

  • Base resin: PLA
  • Additive: Real Steel Powder
  • Particle size: less than 250 micron (0.25mm)
  • Odor: low or no
  • Density: Approx. 2.30 g/cc
  • Length (500g): 97m (1.75mm) and 36m (2.85mm)

Printer Settings

  • Nozzle setpoint: 185-215C
  • Bed Temperature: up to 60C
  • Bed Preparation: Your favorite PLA surface preparation
  • Nozzle Type: Standard or wear resistant for extended use
  • Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm typically ok, but 0.6mm for less heat creep
  • Layer thickness: 0.15-0.20mm for a balance of quality, reliability, and productivity

This material flows well, but composites are still sometimes more tricky to print depending on hardware and software settings. The main challenge is to keep mass flow up to avoid heat soak. More on that topic here.