Best Nylon 3D Printing Techniques

Nylon is a widely used material in the 3D printing world due to its excellent mechanical properties, including high strength, flexibility, and durability. However, printing with nylon requires precision, particularly in moisture control, as nylon is highly hygroscopic and absorbs moisture from the environment, which can degrade print quality. This guide covers the essential techniques for achieving the best results with nylon, from moisture control and drying to optimized printing settings and storage methods.

Why Nylon?

Nylon, also known as polyamide, is commonly used in industrial applications because of its exceptional toughness, impact resistance, and flexibility. It’s well-suited for creating strong, functional parts such as gears, hinges, and mechanical components. Its ability to withstand high stress and resist wear and tear makes it a favorite among engineers and hobbyists alike. However, nylon’s tendency to absorb moisture can lead to stringing, poor layer adhesion, and surface defects, making proper preparation and handling essential.

Moisture Control: Using a Filament Dryer

Why Moisture Matters:
Nylon absorbs moisture from the air quickly, which can significantly affect print quality. If the filament has too much moisture, it can create steam during the printing process, leading to bubbles, inconsistent layers, and weak prints. To prevent these issues, it is important to dry your nylon filament before printing.

Using a Filament Dryer:
A filament dryer is a crucial tool when working with nylon. These devices gently heat the filament, driving out any moisture that has been absorbed. The ideal settings for drying nylon are as follows:

● Temperature: Nylon should be dried at around 70-80°C (158-176°F).

● Duration: Drying times can vary, but for a 1 kg spool of nylon filament, it is recommended to dry it for at least 6-12 hours, depending on the filament's moisture level and environmental conditions.

Heated Dry Box Option:
A heated dry box serves a dual purpose. It can dry out filament before printing and keep it dry during the print process. These boxes maintain a steady temperature, preventing the filament from reabsorbing moisture as it feeds into the printer.

Using Silica Packets and Dry Boxes to Prevent Moisture Absorption 

When 3D printing nylon, keeping the filament dry throughout the printing process is crucial. Here are some methods to keep moisture out:

● Silica Gel Packets:
Silica packets are a simple and inexpensive way to reduce moisture around your filament. These desiccant packs absorb humidity, keeping the air inside filament storage containers dry. Place silica packets inside sealed bags or containers with the nylon spool when not in use.

● Dry Boxes:
A filament dry box, designed to seal out moisture, is an excellent way to store nylon during printing. These boxes typically have slots for filament feeding, so you can print directly from the box without exposing the filament to open air. For even better results, a dry box equipped with a dehumidifier or silica gel pack can maintain a consistently dry environment for extended periods.

Filament Storage: How to Store Nylon When Not in Use

 

 

Proper storage of nylon filament is essential to maintain its quality. Here are the best practices for storing nylon filament when not in use:

● Vacuum-Sealed Bags:
Nylon filament should be stored in vacuum-sealed bags with desiccant packets to prevent exposure to humidity. These bags remove air from the surroundings, limiting the filament’s contact with moisture.

● Airtight Containers:
An airtight filament storage container, ideally with a built-in hygrometer to monitor humidity, is another good option. Pair it with silica gel packets to keep the humidity level below 10%.

● Heated Dry Boxes for Long-Term Storage:
A heated dry box can be used to store the filament when not in use, especially if you live in a humid environment. Keeping the filament warm and dry prevents it from absorbing moisture between prints.

By using these storage techniques, you can prevent your nylon filament from absorbing moisture and extend its usable lifespan.

Optimizing Print Settings for Nylon

Achieving the best results when printing nylon requires fine-tuning your printer’s settings to handle the material’s specific properties. Here are the optimal settings for nylon:

● Hotend Temperature: 240°C to 260°C (464°F to 500°F)

● Bed Temperature: 60°C to 80°C (140°F to 176°F)

● Print Speed: 30 mm/s to 60 mm/s, depending on the model's complexity and size

● Nozzle: Hardened steel nozzles are recommended, as nylon can be abrasive

● Cooling: Limited cooling is preferred to avoid warping

Bed Adhesion for Nylon Printing

Nylon has a tendency to warp, so getting the first layer to stick well to the build surface is crucial. Here are the best surfaces for printing nylon:

● PEI Sheets: These are one of the best surfaces for nylon, offering excellent adhesion.

● Gluestick or PVA-Based Adhesive: Using a gluestick or PVA-based adhesive on a glass or PEI bed provides an extra layer of adhesion to prevent warping.

● Garolite Sheets: Garolite is another material that works well with nylon, providing strong adhesion with minimal warping.

Smoothing Nylon 3D Prints

Nylon is notoriously difficult to smooth using traditional methods like acetone vapor, as it doesn’t dissolve easily in most chemicals. However, here are some ways to achieve a smoother finish:

● Sanding: Sanding is the most reliable way to smooth nylon prints. Start with a coarse grit (100-200) and gradually move to finer grits (up to 1000) for a polished finish.

● Heat Gun: Using a heat gun can slightly melt the outer surface of the print, smoothing imperfections. However, this requires a steady hand and careful application to avoid deforming the part.

● Chemical Smoothing: Though less common, chemical smoothing using specialized solutions may work on some nylon blends. Testing a small section first is always recommended.

Troubleshooting Common Nylon Printing Issues

● Stringing:

○ Cause: Excess moisture in filament or high printing temperature.

○ Solution: Ensure filament is properly dried and optimize retraction settings.

● Warping:

○ Cause: Uneven cooling and poor bed adhesion.

○ Solution: Use a heated bed, ensure proper first layer adhesion, and consider using a draft shield.

● Poor Layer Adhesion:

○ Cause: Insufficient printing temperature or cooling too quickly.

○ Solution: Increase nozzle temperature and reduce cooling fan speed.

● Clogged Nozzle:

○ Cause: Impurities in the filament or degraded nylon.

○ Solution: Use a cleaning filament or perform a cold pull to clear the nozzle.

● Inconsistent Extrusion:

○ Cause: Moisture in the filament or worn-out nozzle.

○ Solution: Dry the filament thoroughly and check/replace the nozzle if necessary.

Safety Precautions

While nylon is generally considered safe for 3D printing, it's important to take the following precautions:

● Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your printing area. While nylon doesn't produce strong odors like ABS, it's still advisable to print in a well-ventilated space.

● Wear Gloves: When handling the printed parts, especially if post-processing, wear gloves to avoid skin irritation.

● Use Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses when removing supports or post-processing to protect your eyes from small particles.

● Fire Safety: As with all 3D printing, have a fire extinguisher nearby and never leave your printer unattended for long periods.

● Filament Storage: Store nylon filament in a cool, dry place to prevent degradation and potential health hazards from moisture-damaged filament.

Real-World Applications

Nylon's unique properties make it suitable for various real-world applications:

● Automotive Industry: Nylon is used for printing functional prototypes, custom car parts, and components that require high wear resistance.

● Aerospace: Due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, nylon is used for printing lightweight yet durable parts for drones and aerospace applications.

● Medical Field: Nylon's biocompatibility makes it suitable for printing custom prosthetics and medical models.

● Sports Equipment: It's used in printing custom grips, protective gear, and other sports accessories that require flexibility and durability.

● Industrial Tools: Nylon's wear resistance makes it ideal for printing custom tools, jigs, and fixtures.

● Fashion and Accessories: Its flexibility allows for printing of wearable items like jewelry, watch straps, and even clothing items.

Technical Comparison with Other Materials

When choosing a filament for 3D printing, it's important to understand how nylon compares to other common materials. Here's a comparison of nylon with PLA, ABS, and PETG:

 

Property	Nylon	PLA	ABS	PETG
Strength	High	Medium	Medium-High	High
Flexibility	High	Low	Medium	Medium
Durability	High	Low	Medium	High
Heat Resistance	High	Low	Medium	Medium
Moisture Sensitivity	High	Low	Low	Medium
Printing Difficulty	High	Low	Medium	Medium
Post-Processing	Difficult	Easy	Easy	Medium

4 Popular Nylon Filaments for 3D Printing

 

1. Polymaker PA6-GF Nylon Filament - $26.00

Polymaker’s PA6-GF is a glass fiber-reinforced nylon filament that offers increased stiffness and heat resistance. It’s ideal for structural parts that require high strength and minimal warping. The glass fiber content makes it stronger than regular nylon, but this also means it’s more abrasive, so be sure to use a hardened steel nozzle to prevent wear.

● Best for: Structural parts, automotive, and mechanical components.

● Drying time: 10-12 hours at 70°C.

● Hotend temperature: 250-270°C.

● Print surface: PEI or Garolite for optimal adhesion.

● Storage: Store in a dry box with silica gel when not in use.

2. Kingroon Nylon 3D Printer Filament - $21.00

 

 

Kingroon Nylon is an affordable filament known for its great layer adhesion and toughness. It's a good option for hobbyists looking for strength without breaking the bank. This filament is also relatively easy to print compared to other nylon filaments, making it beginner-friendly for those new to nylon printing.

● Best for: Functional prototypes, hobby projects, and general-purpose parts.

● Drying time: 6 hours at 75°C.

● Hotend temperature: 240-260°C.

● Print surface: Gluestick on glass or PEI sheets.

● Storage: Vacuum-sealed bags with silica packets are ideal for long-term storage.

3. SUNLU Easy PA Filament - $35.00

 

SUNLU’s Easy PA filament is designed for ease of use, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a low-warping nylon filament. It’s known for better adhesion to the print bed and minimal warping compared to other nylon filaments. It’s also a bit more flexible, which is great for impact-resistant parts.

● Best for: Functional parts, prototypes, and mechanical pieces.

● Drying time: 6-8 hours at 70°C.

● Hotend temperature: 240-260°C.

● Print surface: Garolite or gluestick on glass.

● Storage: Keep in an airtight dry box with desiccant when not in use.

4. OVERTURE Nylon Filament - $32.00

 

OVERTURE Nylon filament is a well-balanced, affordable option for professional-grade parts. It offers excellent strength and flexibility, making it a good option for industrial applications and functional parts. It’s less prone to warping and works well with various print surfaces.

● Best for: Durable, high-strength parts for industrial or mechanical applications.

● Drying time: 8 hours at 75°C.

● Hotend temperature: 250-270°C.

● Print surface: PEI or Garolite for strong bed adhesion.

● Storage: Store in a dry box or vacuum-sealed bag with silica packets.

Types of Nylon Filaments

When it comes to 3D printing with nylon, not all filaments are created equal. Understanding the different types of nylon filaments available can help you choose the right material for your specific application. Here's an overview of the most common nylon filament types:

Nylon 6 (PA6)

● Characteristics: High tensile strength, good abrasion resistance

● Best for: Mechanical parts, gears, bearings

● Printing temperature: 240-260°C

● Pros: Excellent toughness, good chemical resistance

● Cons: High moisture absorption, prone to warping

Nylon 6/6 (PA66)

● Characteristics: Higher strength and heat resistance than Nylon 6

● Best for: High-stress applications, automotive parts

● Printing temperature: 250-270°C

● Pros: Superior mechanical properties, good fatigue resistance

● Cons: More difficult to print, higher shrinkage rate

Nylon 12 (PA12)

● Characteristics: Lower moisture absorption, more flexible than PA6 and PA66

● Best for: Functional prototypes, snap-fit assemblies

● Printing temperature: 230-250°C

● Pros: Easier to print, less warping, good chemical resistance

● Cons: Lower strength compared to PA6 and PA66

Nylon Copolymers

● Characteristics: Blend of different nylon types or nylon with other materials

● Best for: Balancing ease of printing with mechanical properties

● Printing temperature: Varies by blend (typically 220-260°C)

● Pros: Can offer better printability while retaining nylon's beneficial properties

● Cons: Properties can vary widely between brands and blends

Nylon Composites

● Examples: Carbon fiber-filled nylon, glass fiber-filled nylon

● Characteristics: Enhanced strength, stiffness, and heat resistance

● Best for: Engineering applications requiring high performance

● Printing temperature: Typically higher than unfilled nylons (260-280°C)

● Pros: Superior mechanical properties, reduced warping

● Cons: More abrasive (requires hardened nozzles), can be brittle

Nozzle Considerations for Nylon 3D Printing

 

Choosing the right nozzle is crucial when printing with nylon. The nozzle material, size, and design can significantly impact print quality, speed, and the longevity of your printer. Here's what you need to know:

Nozzle Materials

1. Brass Nozzles

● Pros: Excellent heat conductivity, inexpensive

● Cons: Soft material, wears quickly with abrasive filaments

● Best for: Short-term nylon printing or non-abrasive nylon blends

2. Hardened Steel Nozzles

● Pros: Highly wear-resistant, suitable for long-term nylon printing

● Cons: Lower thermal conductivity than brass, may require higher temperatures

● Best for: Regular nylon printing, especially with abrasive composites

3. Ruby-Tipped Nozzles

● Pros: Extremely wear-resistant, good thermal properties

● Cons: Expensive, can be brittle if not handled properly

● Best for: High-volume nylon printing, especially with abrasive filaments

Nozzle Sizes

0.4mm Nozzle

● Standard size for most prints

● Balances detail and print speed

● Suitable for most nylon applications

0.6mm - 0.8mm Nozzles

● Faster printing speeds

● Stronger parts due to thicker layer lines

● Better for large, functional parts

● Can help reduce moisture-related issues

0.2mm - 0.3mm Nozzles

● Higher detail prints

● Slower print speeds

● May exacerbate moisture issues in nylon

● Best for small, detailed parts

Nozzle Design Considerations

Nozzle Length

● Longer nozzles can provide more precise control but may be more prone to clogging

● Shorter nozzles offer better heat transfer but less precision

Internal Geometry

● Nozzles with optimized internal geometry can improve flow and reduce the likelihood of clogs

Coatings

● Some nozzles come with non-stick coatings that can help prevent filament build-up

Print Orientation for Nylon 3D Printing

The orientation of your part during printing can significantly impact its strength, surface finish, and overall quality. This is particularly important for nylon due to its anisotropic properties - meaning its strength varies depending on the direction of the applied force relative to the layer lines. Here's what you need to consider:

Strength Considerations

● Z-Axis Weakness: Parts are typically weakest in the Z-axis (vertical) direction due to layer adhesion being the primary source of strength.

○ Avoid orienting critical load-bearing features vertically if possible.

● XY Plane Strength: Parts are usually strongest when forces are applied parallel to the print layers (in the XY plane).

○ Orient parts to align the direction of maximum stress with the XY plane.

● 45-Degree Rule: For cylindrical or rod-like objects, printing at a 45-degree angle can provide a good balance of strength in multiple directions.

Surface Finish

● Visible Surfaces: Orient the part to minimize visible layer lines on important surfaces.

○ Consider which surfaces will be most visible in the final application.

● Overhangs: Minimize overhangs exceeding 45 degrees to reduce the need for supports and improve surface quality.

● Circular Features: Print holes and circular features in the XY plane for better dimensional accuracy and smoother surfaces.

Support Structures

1. Minimize Supports: Orient the part to minimize the need for support structures, especially in areas that are difficult to access for post-processing.

2. Support Removal: Consider how support structures will be removed and orient the part to make this process easier.

Warping Prevention

1. Large Flat Surfaces: Avoid orienting large flat surfaces parallel to the build plate to reduce warping.

○ If unavoidable, use a brim or raft to improve adhesion.

2. Symmetry: When possible, orient parts symmetrically to distribute thermal stresses evenly.

Practical Tips

● Use Slicing Software: Utilize the orientation tools in your slicing software to visualize and optimize part orientation.

● Multiple Orientations: For complex parts, consider printing in multiple orientations and assembling afterwards.

● Test Prints: For critical applications, print test pieces in different orientations to determine the best option empirically.

● Functional Requirements: Always prioritize the functional requirements of the part over aesthetic considerations.

Print Orientation for Nylon 3D Printing

The orientation of your part during printing can significantly impact its strength, surface finish, and overall quality. This is particularly important for nylon due to its anisotropic properties - meaning its strength varies depending on the direction of the applied force relative to the layer lines. Here's what you need to consider:

Strength Considerations

● Z-Axis Weakness: Parts are typically weakest in the Z-axis (vertical) direction due to layer adhesion being the primary source of strength.

○ Avoid orienting critical load-bearing features vertically if possible.

● XY Plane Strength: Parts are usually strongest when forces are applied parallel to the print layers (in the XY plane).

○ Orient parts to align the direction of maximum stress with the XY plane.

● 45-Degree Rule: For cylindrical or rod-like objects, printing at a 45-degree angle can provide a good balance of strength in multiple directions.

Surface Finish

● Visible Surfaces: Orient the part to minimize visible layer lines on important surfaces.

○ Consider which surfaces will be most visible in the final application.

● Overhangs: Minimize overhangs exceeding 45 degrees to reduce the need for supports and improve surface quality.

● Circular Features: Print holes and circular features in the XY plane for better dimensional accuracy and smoother surfaces.

Support Structures

● Minimize Supports: Orient the part to minimize the need for support structures, especially in areas that are difficult to access for post-processing.

● Support Removal: Consider how support structures will be removed and orient the part to make this process easier.

Warping Prevention

● Large Flat Surfaces: Avoid orienting large flat surfaces parallel to the build plate to reduce warping.

○ If unavoidable, use a brim or raft to improve adhesion.

● Symmetry: When possible, orient parts symmetrically to distribute thermal stresses evenly.

Practical Tips

● Use Slicing Software: Utilize the orientation tools in your slicing software to visualize and optimize part orientation.

● Multiple Orientations: For complex parts, consider printing in multiple orientations and assembling afterwards.

● Test Prints: For critical applications, print test pieces in different orientations to determine the best option empirically.

● Functional Requirements: Always prioritize the functional requirements of the part over aesthetic considerations.