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Filament

PVA

Water-soluble support material that dissolves away, leaving complex geometries clean.

Polyvinyl alcohol is a support material printed on dual-extrusion FDM printers. It dissolves in water, enabling complex overhangs and internal cavities that can't be reached by hand. Not used for structural parts.

Ratings

Ease3/5
Strength1/5
Flexibility2/5
Heat res.1/5
Detail3/5
UV res.3/5

Print settings

Nozzle temp
180–200 °C
Bed temp
50–60 °C
Enclosure
No
Drying needed
Yes
Heat deflection temp
60 °C

Print tips

Print at 180–200 °C. Keep bone-dry — PVA absorbs moisture rapidly and degrades. Use a dry box. Dissolve supports in warm water.

Safety & food contact

Non-toxic and water-soluble; dispose of dissolved PVA water per local rules.

Food contact: Not for food contact.

Common uses

Support materialComplex overhangsInternal cavities

Pros

  • Dissolves in water
  • Enables complex geometry
  • Clean supports

Cons

  • Very hygroscopic
  • Expensive
  • Low structural strength
  • Short shelf life
Typical price: $40–80/kg
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