How long does 3D printer filament last?
Buyer: I’m starting to stock filament for regular use. How long does 3D printer filament last before it goes bad?
Engineer (Prime): Great question. The lifespan depends on the material, storage conditions, and how often you print. PLA can last over a year if stored well. But ABS, nylon, and other hygroscopic filaments can degrade in weeks if exposed to moisture.
Let’s go deeper.
Table of Contents
- How much can you print with one roll of filament?
- How to tell if filament has gone bad?
- How long can 3D printer filament be left out?
- How long will 3D printed PLA last?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
How much can you print with one roll of filament?
Buyer: Let’s start with usage—how far does 1kg of filament go?
Engineer: A 1kg roll of PLA or PETG typically yields:
- \~35–40 small phone-sized parts
- \~15–20 medium enclosures
- 1–2 large-scale prototypes
Of course, it depends on infill, wall thickness, and print resolution. We help Prime clients estimate this during DFM to avoid understocking.
| Part Size | Quantity per 1kg | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small brackets | 30–50 | Low infill, quick prints |
| Mechanical gears | 15–25 | Higher infill, tight tolerances |
| Large casings | 1–2 | May consume full spool |
Summary: 1kg can go a long way—but print settings make all the difference.
How to tell if filament has gone bad?
Buyer: How do I know when filament has spoiled?
Engineer: Watch for these signs:
- Snapping or cracking during feed
- Popping sounds while printing (moisture boiling)
- Rough or inconsistent extrusion
- Brittle texture and white spots
Filaments like Nylon, PVA, and TPU absorb water quickly and become unusable unless dried.
Buyer: Can it be saved?
Engineer: Often yes. We use filament dryers or ovens at 50–60°C to restore usability.
How long can 3D printer filament be left out?
Buyer: I sometimes leave spools out for days. Is that okay?
Engineer: It depends on the material and environment:
| Filament Type | Safe Exposure (Room Temp, 50% RH) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PLA | 2–3 weeks | Mildly hygroscopic |
| PETG | 1–2 weeks | Attracts dust easily |
| Nylon | <48 hours | Highly moisture-sensitive |
| ABS | 1 week | Warps if too humid |
Buyer: So a dry box is essential?
Engineer: Yes. At Prime, we store all open rolls in sealed chambers with desiccant for consistent quality.
How long will 3D printed PLA last?
Image: A PLA part showing warping and fading after long-term sunlight exposure.
Buyer: If I print something in PLA, how long will it last?
Engineer: PLA parts can last 2–5 years indoors. But:
- UV light degrades it quickly
- Heat softens it above 60°C
- Moisture has minimal effect if fully printed
Buyer: For outdoor use?
Engineer: Use PETG, ASA, or PC instead. PLA is better for dry, cool indoor parts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ What’s the shelf life of sealed PLA?
Engineer: 12–24 months if unopened and stored in a cool, dry place.
❓ Can I reuse old or brittle filament?
Engineer: Sometimes. Dry it first. If it still cracks during feed, it’s best discarded.
❓ Do filament colors affect longevity?
Engineer: Not much, but darker colors may absorb more heat. Natural (uncolored) PLA may degrade faster in sunlight.
❓ How can I store filament long-term?
Engineer: Use vacuum-sealed bags or dryboxes with silica gel. Avoid heat, UV, and humidity.
Conclusion
Buyer: So, how long does 3D printer filament last?
Engineer: If stored well, PLA and PETG can last a year or more. But exposure to moisture or UV can shorten their life dramatically.
Buyer: Sounds like storage is as important as the printer itself.
Engineer: Exactly. At Prime, we help clients optimize not just designs—but also print quality, sourcing, and material handling.
Want help choosing the right filament or setting up long-term print quality controls?
Contact Prime for expert guidance, filament sourcing, and DFM consultation.
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://primecustomparts.com
