Enter the weight of the printed object (grams) and the volume of filament used (mm^3) into the Filament Density Calculator. The calculator will evaluate and display the Filament Density. 

Filament Density Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Filament Density. 

FD = W / VF
  • Where FD is the Filament Density (g/mm^3)
  • W is the weight of the printed object (grams) 
  • VF is the volume of filament used (mm^3) 

How to Calculate Filament Density?

The following example problems outline how to calculate Filament Density.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the weight of the printed object (grams).
    1. The weight of the printed object (grams) is given as: 20.
  2. Next, determine the volume of filament used (mm^3).
    1. The volume of filament used (mm^3) is provided as: 10.
  3. Finally, calculate the Filament Density using the equation above: 

FD = W / VF

The values given above are inserted into the equation below:

FD = 20 / 10 = 2 (g/mm^3)

FAQ

What is filament density and why is it important in 3D printing?

Filament density refers to the mass of the filament per unit volume (g/mm^3). It is crucial in 3D printing because it helps in determining the amount of material needed for a print, ensuring the structural integrity and quality of the printed object.

How can knowing the filament density improve the 3D printing process?

Understanding filament density allows for more accurate calculations of material costs and ensures efficient use of resources. It also aids in optimizing print settings for better quality prints and can help in troubleshooting issues related to material flow and extrusion.

Can filament density vary between different types of filament materials?

Yes, filament density can vary significantly between different types of materials. For example, PLA (Polylactic Acid) and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) have different densities due to their distinct chemical compositions. This variation affects how each material is used in 3D printing projects.