Ultra Light PLA+ | Raven Black | 1.75 mm

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black by NFIL3D is a specialized lightweight 3D printing filament designed for makers, engineers, designers and hobbyists who want to explore reduced-weight printed models without giving up the versatility of FDM printing. Its deep Raven Black colour offers a professional appearance for model aircraft concepts, architectural structures, cosplay accessories, engineering mock-ups and large decorative models.

As part of NFIL3D’s Ultra Light PLA+ range, this material is positioned for weight-sensitive printing applications where component mass, geometry and practical strength must be considered together.

The filament features a nominal diameter of 1.75mm with an advertised diameter tolerance of ±0.015mm. NFIL3D also highlights consistent colour, nozzle-friendly processing and its background in polymer manufacturing.

Actual filament density, finished-part weight reduction and strength depend on the formulation and printing conditions. These properties should be verified through technical data or comparative testing before use in demanding applications.

Why Choose Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black?

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black combines a distinctive solid black appearance with the design possibilities of weight-conscious 3D printing.

Lower-mass components may be valuable in model aircraft concepts, portable display structures, wearable accessories and large prototypes.

The Raven Black colour is suitable for projects where a dark, understated appearance is preferred.

Unlike NFIL3D’s Turbo-Finish PLA+ Raven Black, which is marketed for high-speed printing support, the Ultra Light version focuses on lightweight applications.

Designers can explore optimized wall thickness, internal structure and material usage while evaluating the strength required for their projects.

Key Benefits of Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black

• Lightweight-focused material for suitable weight-sensitive 3D printing projects.
• Deep Raven Black colour for modern, technical and decorative models.
• Nominal 1.75mm diameter for compatible FDM and FFF printers.
• Advertised ±0.015mm filament diameter tolerance.
• Nozzle-friendly processing when suitable material settings are used.
• Colour-changing desiccant for monitoring storage conditions.
• Consistent black colour for matching printed components.
• Supported by NFIL3D’s experience in polymer materials and processing.

Key Features of Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black

1. Lightweight-Focused Material Formulation

The primary design objective of Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black is to support printing projects where reduced component weight is desirable.

Weight-sensitive 3D printing can be useful in model aviation, display structures, portable prototypes and suitable wearable designs.

A lighter part may be easier to handle, transport or incorporate into a larger assembly.

However, the actual weight reduction compared with regular PLA+ cannot be established from the product name alone.

Filament density, internal structure, wall thickness, infill and printing parameters all affect the finished object’s mass.

For a reliable comparison, print identical models using Ultra Light PLA+ and a conventional PLA+ reference and measure the finished weights.

2. Deep Raven Black Appearance

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black features a dark black colour suitable for professional and creative printing projects.

Raven Black works well for engineering mock-ups, model vehicles, miniature equipment, futuristic decorative objects and architectural models.

Its neutral appearance can complement silver, white, orange, red and other contrasting colours in multi-part assemblies.

For presentation models, black can provide a sophisticated appearance while emphasizing the overall shape of the design.

NFIL3D highlights consistent colour as one of the product’s features.

The final printed shade and surface sheen may vary depending on material processing, printing temperature, layer height and lighting.

Raven Black is a colour designation. It does not establish that the material contains carbon fibre, conductive additives or recycled plastic.

3. Designed for Strength-to-Weight Optimization

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black is intended for applications where designers want to balance printed-part weight and practical mechanical performance.

Strength-to-weight optimization is important when developing lightweight structures, protective covers and certain prototype components.

A low-mass structure may be beneficial when unnecessary weight is undesirable.

However, a lighter material is not automatically stronger or more rigid than standard PLA.

The strength of a finished 3D printed part depends on formulation, wall thickness, infill, print orientation, geometry and layer bonding.

For demanding applications, users should evaluate stiffness, impact resistance and mechanical strength using appropriate testing methods.

Flight-critical, load-bearing and safety-critical components require additional engineering validation.

4. Nominal 1.75mm Filament with ±0.015mm Tolerance

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black is intended for compatible FDM and FFF printers that accept 1.75mm filament.

Its advertised filament diameter tolerance is ±0.015mm.

Consistent filament dimensions can help the printer deliver predictable amounts of material when the extruder is properly calibrated.

Significant diameter variations can contribute to feeding irregularities and inconsistent extrusion.

The stated tolerance refers specifically to filament diameter, not guaranteed dimensional accuracy of completed 3D printed objects.

Lightweight filament may also require additional calibration of material flow, depending on its formulation.

5. Nozzle-Friendly FDM Printing

NFIL3D lists nozzle-friendly processing among the features of Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black.

For successful printing, the machine should use appropriate nozzle temperature, extrusion flow, nozzle condition and material settings.

Some lightweight PLA materials use heat-activated expansion during extrusion.

Such formulations can require different printing temperatures, extrusion multipliers and retraction settings compared with standard PLA.

However, the available product information does not confirm whether this particular NFIL3D formulation uses that mechanism.

Users should therefore follow the relevant NFIL3D technical data sheet rather than copying settings from an unrelated lightweight filament.

6. Moisture Management with Colour-Changing Desiccant

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black is listed with colour-changing desiccant intended to help monitor storage conditions.

PLA-based filament can absorb moisture from the environment over time.

Excess moisture may contribute to bubbling, stringing, irregular extrusion and rough surfaces.

Colour-changing desiccant can offer a visual indication of its condition when used according to its manufacturer’s instructions.

However, desiccant does not guarantee permanently moisture-free filament.

After opening the packaging, keep the spool in an airtight container or sealed protective bag with suitable desiccant.

For more information, read the Prusa Filament Drying and Storage Guide.

7. Suitable for Large and Lightweight Printed Models

Large 3D printed objects can become difficult to handle when printed with dense material and high infill.

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black allows designers to explore lower-mass alternatives for suitable large models.

Examples include decorative sculptures, exhibition models, architectural structures and prototype assemblies.

Depending on the material’s actual density and printing parameters, the finished object may offer a useful weight advantage.

However, any suspended, mounted or wearable object should have appropriately designed supports.

Reducing weight should not compromise the structure’s required mechanical strength.

8. Consistent Raven Black Colour

Consistent material appearance is important when printing several pieces intended to form one product or assembly.

NFIL3D emphasizes colour consistency in its Raven Black filament listing.

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black can be used for matching model sections, decorative components, architectural features and prototype housings.

Using consistent nozzle temperatures, wall speeds and layer heights may also help reduce variation in surface appearance between separate prints.

9. Supported by 30+ Years of Polymer Expertise

NFIL3D draws on more than 30 years of experience in polymer raw materials, additives and processing.

This background supports the company’s approach to filament development, material manufacturing and consistency.

The Ultra Light PLA+ range extends its material portfolio to applications where printed-part weight is an important design consideration.

Applications of Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black

RC Aircraft Models and Aviation Prototypes

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black can be evaluated for suitable RC aircraft concepts, display fuselage sections, prototype wings and non-critical model accessories.

Weight can be a significant design factor in model aviation, but structural performance remains essential.

Any component intended for actual flight should be tested for appropriate rigidity, strength and safety.

Drone Concepts and Lightweight Covers

Print visual drone mock-ups, prototype covers, demonstration housings and non-critical decorative components.

Flight-critical or load-bearing drone parts require appropriate engineering validation.

Cosplay and Wearable Accessories

Create suitable decorative armour, display masks, costume components and lightweight prop housings.

A lower-mass design may improve comfort, depending on the final printed weight.

Wearable objects should be evaluated for fit, sharp edges, mounting and safe use.

Architectural and Urban Models

Produce scaled buildings, miniature structures, conceptual bridges, industrial-style architectural models and urban dioramas.

Raven Black is useful for highlighting dark structures or design features in a multicolour presentation.

Large Decorative Sculptures

Create geometric sculptures, abstract art, contemporary decorative pieces and exhibition display models.

For suspended or wall-mounted objects, verify the printed object’s weight and mounting strength.

Engineering Prototypes and Product Mock-Ups

Create appearance prototypes, lightweight housings, concept products and physical design samples.

The material can help designers explore different shell structures and component geometries.

Educational and STEM Projects

Print engineering demonstrations, model structures, material comparison samples and classroom learning aids.

A useful educational exercise is to compare the weight and rigidity of identical models printed with different filament types.

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black Technical Specifications

Recommended Printing Settings for Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black

Because Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black is a specialized lightweight material, its printing profile should be based on the product’s verified formulation.

Nozzle Temperature: Follow NFIL3D’s recommended operating temperature range.

Bed Temperature: Select a suitable heated-bed setting and maintain a clean build surface.

Layer Height: A 0.20mm layer height with a standard 0.4mm nozzle may be used as an initial calibration point if compatible with the filament.

Printing Speed: Begin with a moderate speed and adjust after checking extrusion and surface quality.

Flow Rate: Use the recommended extrusion multiplier. Do not reduce flow significantly unless an expansion mechanism has been confirmed.

Wall Thickness: Select enough walls to maintain the required strength while considering the design’s weight target.

Infill Density: Choose an infill pattern and percentage appropriate for the application’s structural requirements.

Cooling: Adjust cooling to balance overhang performance, layer bonding and surface quality.

Retraction: Calibrate according to observed stringing and material behaviour.

Storage: Keep unused filament in sealed, dry storage with suitable desiccant.

Understanding Lightweight PLA Printing Behaviour

Different lightweight PLA filaments behave differently.

Some formulations expand during printing through heat-activated foaming. These materials may require specialized temperature and extrusion settings.

Other lightweight formulations may not use the same mechanism.

Because the exact expansion behaviour of Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black has not been confirmed, do not apply aggressive foaming profiles without manufacturer guidance.

For general technical information, see the Prusa LW PLA Material Guide.

The temperatures, flow multipliers and weight-reduction figures in that guide are specific to the material discussed there and should not be treated as NFIL3D specifications.

Tips for Better Raven Black Lightweight Prints

Begin with a small calibration model before producing a large or complex object.

Measure the finished weight and compare it with an identical model made from conventional PLA+.

Use the same model geometry and comparable printing conditions when evaluating material differences.

For engineering prototypes, evaluate stiffness and strength rather than relying only on lower mass.

For black presentation models, maintain consistent outer-wall speeds to reduce unwanted surface differences.

Check first-layer adhesion and build-plate cleanliness before starting larger prints.

If the material exhibits unusual expansion, oozing or stringing, review the manufacturer-recommended profile.

For model aircraft and RC applications, evaluate printed components under realistic conditions before use.

Store unused filament in a sealed container with suitable desiccant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black?

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black is a lightweight-focused PLA+ filament from NFIL3D, available in a deep black colour with a nominal 1.75mm diameter.

Is Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black lighter than regular PLA+?

It is marketed for lightweight applications, but the actual weight reduction should be verified using density data or comparison prints.

Does it expand or foam during printing?

The available NFIL3D product listing does not establish its exact foaming mechanism. Check the manufacturer’s technical documentation before selecting expansion-specific print settings.

Is Raven Black suitable for RC aircraft?

The material can be evaluated for suitable model aircraft projects. Components intended for flight require structural and performance testing.

Does lightweight PLA print faster?

Not automatically. Printing speed depends on the material formulation, extrusion behaviour, printer performance and slicing settings.

Is Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black the same as Turbo-Finish PLA+ Raven Black?

No. Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black is a lightweight-focused material, while Turbo-Finish PLA+ Raven Black is marketed for high-speed printing support.

What is the advertised filament diameter tolerance?

The product lists ±0.015mm filament diameter tolerance around the nominal 1.75mm size.

How should the filament be stored?

Keep the spool in a sealed, dry container or protective bag with suitable desiccant to reduce moisture exposure.

Explore Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black at NFIL3D

Ultra Light PLA+ Raven Black offers a black filament option for weight-conscious printing projects, including model aircraft concepts, prototype housings, decorative structures, cosplay accessories and architectural models.

With its nominal 1.75mm diameter, advertised ±0.015mm tolerance, consistent Raven Black colour and lightweight-focused formulation, this material offers designers another option for exploring reduced-mass printed objects.

Explore the NFIL3D Ultra Light PLA+ Collection for more colour variants including Cement Grey, Natural White and Yellow.

Visit the NFIL3D Store for other 3D printer filaments, printers and printing accessories.