Annealing is the best way to get the maximum heat resistance and toughness from a Tough Pro PLA+ part. Tough Pro PLA+ is made from NatureWorks Ingeo 3D870, which is formulated to crystallize when it's heated after printing. Crystallizing the part improves its thermal performance and further improves its impact properties.
Expect some shrinkage. Parts typically shrink 1–2% and can warp, depending heavily on their shape. Measure a test part before and after so you can compensate in your design.
Oven method
- Preheat the oven to 110–120°C.
- Check the temperature in several spots. Hot and cold spots cause uneven warping.
- Support the part. Packing it tightly in plaster (gypsum) or a salt and flour mix holds its shape. Large parts are often held in fixtures such as aluminum jigs.
- Place the part in the oven and start a timer. A part with 3.2 mm (0.125 in) walls typically takes about 20 minutes; thicker walls take longer.
- The part may turn milky, matte, or more opaque. That's the crystallization you want.
- Remove the part and let it cool at room temperature. Handle it as little as possible, since the inside stays hot longer than the outside.
- Measure the part again to see how much it shrank.
Follow safety practices appropriate for working with hot ovens.
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