Start with the cleanest plastic you can get!

One of the main challenges in producing filament for 3D printing from recycled PET plastic is contamination. Every bit of contamination larger than the size of the printer nozzle WILL clog the printer and result in an unhappy customer. Without industrial plastic washing equipment, it is best to start with plastic that is as clean as possible. This cannot be stressed enough.

We have found that the most important step in obtaining clean plastic is to collect it as close as possible to the source. One way to get clean plastic is by forming a partnership with a restaurant or similar business and equipping them with a clean receptacle for plastic bottles. The plastic is put into the receptacle before it can become contaminated with other food, garbage or dirt from the street. Regular and reliable pickup is important. It is far easier to wash bottles before contaminants dry out and stick to the bottles.

The collected plastic must be stored in a clean location. If the bottles are piled outside on the ground without cover, they will pick up contamination. Clean garbage cans or sacks work well.