PLA (FDM, UltiMaker PLA)

UltiMaker PLA is the maker's grade of polylactic acid filament for fused deposition modeling, where the thermoplastic is melted and extruded through a nozzle layer by layer. Printed parts have a layered structure with small voids between deposited roads, so they are weaker across layers than along them and show visible layer lines. The material warps little, prints readily without an enclosure and needs supports only under steep overhangs. Because it softens at modest temperatures, it is used mainly for concept models, form-and-fit prototypes and light-duty jigs and fixtures. Every value on this page is read from UltiMaker's own material data sheet — quoted, cited and dated — and is the maker's statement about printed material, not a measurement by MatWorld; none has yet been reviewed by a person.