What information should be documented for each batch of 3D printing filament to ensure material traceability?

To ensure material traceability for each batch of 3D printing filament, the following information should be meticulously documented: the material type (e.g., PLA, ABS, Nylon), the manufacturer's name, the material's specific grade or formulation, the batch number or lot number assigned by the manufacturer (this is crucial for tracking back to the source material), the diameter and tolerance of the filament, the date of receipt, the storage conditions (temperature and humidity), the printing parameters used with that specific batch of filament (nozzle temperature, bed temperature, print speed), the machine used for printing, and any observations regarding the filament's performance during printing (e.g., any adhesion issues, warping, or changes in color). Maintaining a detailed record of this information allows for quick identification of the source of any printing problems and ensures consistent material performance across different prints and batches. If testing is performed, this data should also be linked with batch.