Spectrum LW-PLA UltraFoam Lion Orange, 1,75 mm / 750 g

Spectrum LW-PLA UltraFoam is a specialised filament based on Spectrum Premium PLA that uses active foaming technology to achieve a significant reduction in material weight. It is particularly suitable for lightweight applications that require mechanical strength, low weight, and a clean surface finish – such as model making, UAV components, or functional prototypes.

The filament contains additives that trigger controlled volumetric expansion at defined printing temperatures. The foaming process begins at around 220 °C, with maximum expansion occurring between 240 °C and 250 °C. At lower temperatures (below 220 °C), the material behaves like conventional PLA, allowing flexible processing. When fully expanded, the filament achieves:

• Volume increase: more than 3x
• Extremely low density: approx. 0.40 g/cm³
• Flow reduction: up to 70% possible

The degree of expansion can be controlled via the printing temperature, allowing the printed object’s density to be precisely adjusted. This makes it suitable for both structural lightweight components and visually demanding applications. Furthermore, the matte surface ensures a clean, even, and professional appearance. As the degree of foaming increases, the colour of the material becomes lighter – a visual effect that should be considered when designing visible parts.

Key features at a glance:

• Matte surface finish
• Active foaming technology
• More than 3x weight reduction during printing
• Adjustable material density via full control of flow and structure
• Very low final density

Tips:

► Expansion rate may vary depending on printer model.
► Printers with enclosed build chambers may achieve higher foaming levels.
► Moisture affects foaming behaviour – drying the filament before printing is recommended.
► Increased retraction helps reduce stringing.
► If models are difficult to remove from the build plate, try lowering the bed temperature.
► For brittle prints, increase the flow rate.