![BrassFill HTPLA is a mix of High Temperature "HT" PLA with brass powder.](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c7f345_eb096cf9427a44d4a42b9dd1771a5237~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_339,h_339,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/Image-empty-state.jpg)
Brands Tested
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ProtoPasta
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ColorFabb
BrassFill HTPLA
BrassFill HTPLA is a mix of High Temperature "HT" PLA with brass powder.
Metalfill filaments prints like plastic, but can be finished like real metal. It is relatively easy to work with and does not require a heated bed. Many finishing options are possible:
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Heat treat your HTPLA print to survive harsher environments like the hot sun or a polishing wheel
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Use Wire Brush to expose metal for future oxidation or a bright, satin finish
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Rock tumble with steel shot for darker, but smooth/shiny look
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Paint part with spray ink (black for example) to fill recesses with a contrasting color and sand away the surface.
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Polish with a rotary tool, cotton buff, and polishing compound for a bright, mirror finish on high spots (darkens low spots)
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Polish with paper for a clean, smooth, and bright finish with less darkening
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Patina (oxidize) exposed metal naturally or accelerate with a 50/50 vinegar/hydrogen peroxide mixture saturated with salt. Place in sealed plastic bag to retain moisture. Heat further accelerates reaction.
Surface Quality
++++
Strength
++++
Ease of Use
++++
Settings
Speed
(mm/sec)
![astro_icon_filament_extruder.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c7f345_254aeb28bcad411996139a06186830e7~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_61,h_60,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/astro_icon_filament_extruder.png)
35-55
Fan
(%)
![astro_icon_fan.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c7f345_ef1f32f42e6a4f3799699bc636780c6d~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_62,h_60,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/astro_icon_fan.png)
35-55
ExtruderTemp
(Deg C)
![astro_icon_preheat.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c7f345_48db7b2253a14676825a41412fd981e1~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_63,h_60,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/astro_icon_preheat.png)
190°C-210°C
Bed Temp
(Deg C)
![astro_icon_bedtemp.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c7f345_937c8f40ab3d404c9a55f6549fee4d5d~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_60,h_60,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/astro_icon_bedtemp.png)
0-60°C
Retraction
(mm)
![gcreate_icon_unload_filament.png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/c7f345_12435c72cc7549599f39d55742d97c42~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_62,h_60,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_auto/gcreate_icon_unload_filament.png)
0.75
Additional Recommendations
Sticks too well to acrylic.
Use of hair spray or glue stick is recommended on building plate.