Nylon Filament: When It's the Only Option

The Strongest Filament You Can Print

Nylon is the go-to material when you need maximum durability. It's used in professional applications from gears to hinges to structural brackets.

Why Nylon Is Different

Nylon is hygroscopic — it absorbs moisture from the air like a sponge. A wet nylon spool will produce terrible prints. Dry storage isn't optional, it's mandatory.

Print Requirements

• Nozzle: 240-270°C
• Bed: 70-90°C with adhesive (glue stick or PEI)
• Enclosure: Required to prevent warping
• Dry box: Print directly from a sealed dry box
• Hardened nozzle: Recommended for filled variants

Nylon Variants

• PA6: Standard nylon. Strong, flexible, good wear resistance.
• PA12: Easier to print, slightly less strong.
• PA6-CF: Carbon fiber reinforced. Extremely stiff and strong.
• PA6-GF: Glass fiber reinforced. Best balance of cost and strength.

Cost Analysis

Nylon filament costs €35-60/kg, 2-3x more than PLA. Add slower print speeds and mandatory drying, and nylon parts cost significantly more to produce.

But for applications that demand it — gears, living hinges, snap-fits, wear surfaces — nothing else will do.

Use our material comparison tool to see exactly how nylon pricing affects your bottom line.