Nozzle
A 3D printer nozzle is a small opening through which the material (such as plastic, metal, or ceramic) used in a 3D printer is extruded. The nozzle is typically located at the end of the extruder, which is the part of the 3D printer responsible for melting and depositing the material.
The nozzle is usually made of metal, such as brass or stainless steel, and has a very small diameter (typically between 0.2 and 0.4mm). The size of the nozzle determines the resolution of the printer, with smaller nozzles able to produce more detailed prints.
In addition to its size, the shape of the nozzle can also affect the performance of a 3D printer. Some nozzles have a flat or angled tip, while others have a round or conical shape. The shape of the nozzle can influence the flow rate of the material and the quality of the finished object.
The nozzle is an important component of a 3D printer, as it determines how the material is laid down and how the finished object will look. It is important to keep the nozzle clean and in good condition to ensure the best possible performance of the printer.
Filament
3D printer filament is the material that is used in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printers. It is a long, thin strand of plastic (or other material) that is fed into the printer and melted to create a 3D object.
The most common type of filament used in FDM printers is thermoplastic polymer, which is a type of plastic that can be melted and solidified multiple times without losing its properties. The most common types of thermoplastic polymer are ABS and PLA, but there are many other materials available such as TPU, PETG, Nylon, and even metals like copper, brass and steel.
Filament is typically sold on spools and comes in a variety of colors and thicknesses. The filament is fed from the spool into the extruder of the 3D printer, where it is heated and melted. The melted filament is then extruded through a nozzle, where it is deposited layer by layer to create the 3D object.
Filament is relatively inexpensive compared to other 3D printing materials, making FDM printing a popular and cost-effective option for both personal and professional use. Different types of filament offer different properties, such as flexibility, durability, temperature resistance, and color options.