ePLA-LW: Ultra-lightweight filament for RC model aircraft and COSPLAY
3 min reading time
eSUN's ePLA-LW is an ultra-lightweight PLA filament utilizing Active Foaming technology, reducing its density to just 0.54 g/cm³. It is ideal for printing lightweight RC planes, model boats, and COSPLAY props.
What is ePLA-LW?
eSUN ePLA-LW (Lightweight PLA) is a special filament specifically developed for aeromodelling or making airplane models. With Active Foaming technology, the material expands during printing, resulting in much lighter parts than usual. It has a low density of only 0.54 g/cm³ and a high foaming ratio of up to 220%.
Key Features of ePLA-LW
🪶 Ultra-Lightweight – Low density of only 0.54 g/cm³ after foaming.
📈 High Foaming Ratio – Foaming Volume Ratio of up to 220%, allowing the material to expand more than twice its original size.
🎛️ Adjustable Strength – Control foaming rate and strength by adjusting printing temperature.
🖌️ Fine Matte Finish – Foaming makes layer lines almost invisible, resulting in a smooth, matte surface.
🔗 Excellent Interlayer Adhesion – Strong and stable interlayer adhesion.
🎨 Easy to Paint – The matte surface allows paint to adhere well without much surface preparation.
🖨️ Easy to Print – Excellent printability, suitable for most common printers.
Benefits for Model Aircraft
Using the same model and printing speed, ePLA-LW helps model airplane wings achieve a lighter wing load and a lower stall speed, significantly enhancing the model's flight performance.
Applications
✈️ RC Model Airplanes – Reduces wing and structural weight, providing smoother and more efficient flight.
⛵ Model Boats – Creates lightweight yet strong hulls.
🦸 COSPLAY Props – Makes wearable armor, helmets, and props without feeling heavy.
🏛️ Architectural Models – Ideal for models where maximum weight reduction is desired.
Recommended Printing Parameters
Parameter
Recommended Value
Extruder Temp
190 – 270°C
Bed Temp
45 – 60°C
Print Speed
40 – 100 mm/s
Fan Speed
100%
Retraction
Turn Off
Diameter
1.75 mm
Net Weight
1 kg/spool
💡 Tip: Higher temperature → greater foaming rate → lighter part, but reduced strength. Adjust for optimal balance based on project requirements.
Precautions
Disable Retraction Function – Since PLA-LW foams continuously in the print head, retraction is largely ineffective. Stringing is common. For RC plane printing, using Vase Mode is recommended to minimize its impact.
Temperature Limitations – Printers with PTFE (Teflon) tubes should not be used continuously above 250°C. For higher temperatures, an all-metal hotend printer should be used.
Slight Yellowing After Printing – This is normal due to high-temperature foaming. Lower the temperature to mitigate this effect.
First Layer Speed – Set the first layer speed to match the actual printing speed and adjust the extrusion rate in accordance with the temperature used.
Conclusion
eSUN ePLA-LW is an excellent choice for RC model builders, cosplayers, and anyone requiring ultra-lightweight 3D printed parts. Its unique Active Foaming technology clearly distinguishes ePLA-LW from conventional filaments, opening up a world of lightweight structures previously unattainable with standard FDM printing.