PLA+ (PLA Plus) is an enhanced formulation of traditional PLA, modified to offer greater impact resistance, improved toughness, and a smoother surface. It retains all the ease of printing of standard PLA but overcomes its mechanical limitations, making it an excellent choice for lightweight functional parts.
When to use PLA+
- Lightweight functional parts: gears, joints, supports, everyday accessories.
- Technical aesthetic prints: objects that need to look and function well.
- Technical education: for those who want robust prints without switching to ABS or PETG.
- Car/motorcycle aftermarket: small accessories that standard PLA would not withstand.
- Functional modeling: articulated parts, joints, mechanisms.
Technical features
- Nozzle temperature: 210-230 °C.
- Bed temperature: 50-60 °C.
- Impact resistance: 2-3 times higher than standard PLA.
- Heat resistance: up to 65-70 °C (vs 60 °C for PLA).
- Shrinkage: minimal, similar to standard PLA.
- Surface finish: glossier and more uniform than traditional PLA.
Brands you'll find on Strato3D
Selected PLA+ filaments from Polymaker (PolyMax), eSUN PLA+, Sunlu PLA+, and other references tested for batch consistency and reliability.
Frequently asked questions
Is the price difference really worth it? Yes, for functional parts. PLA+ costs 20-30% more but offers significantly superior mechanical performance.
Is the printability identical to standard PLA? Practically yes, with minor adjustments to temperature and cooling.
PLA+ or PETG? PLA+ is stiffer and easier to print, PETG is more chemically and thermally resistant. For parts exposed to heat or solvents, choose PETG.
Is it biodegradable like PLA? Yes, in industrial composting. Additives do not compromise biodegradability.