⚠️ Impact Robotics League Material Rules

Only these materials are legal: PET, PETG, ABS, PLA, PLA+, and ASA. TPU limited to advanced tiers (Belts & Tire tread only). Prohibited: Carbon Fiber PLA, Glass Filled ABS, and any composite materials. No post-processing like annealing allowed.

Proven Printer Settings

Combat robotics has proven that walls provide most of your part strength. Prioritize perimeter walls over infill density.

PLA Spinning Impactors

Walls: 2 walls
Top Layers: 1000 layers (for a fully solid print)

Chassis Components

Weight Saving: 4 walls, 10% Gyroid infill
Maximum Strength: 2 walls, 1000 top layers (solid)
Key Point: Walls provide most of the strength in the part

Material Recommendations

  • PLA+ (Recommended): Duramic PLA PLUS, Overture Super PLA PLUS brands for maximum impact resistance
  • Bambu Lab PLA Basic: Many builders use for chassis - reliable but lower impact resistance
  • Bambu Lab PLA Tough+: New 2025 release - 80.6 kJ/m² impact strength (needs testing)
  • Check current pricing - filament prices fluctuate frequently

Printer Recommendations

Popular choices among combat robotics builders. Check current pricing as deals change frequently.

Bambu Lab Ecosystem

  • A1 Mini: Compact, beginner-friendly option (limited to 1lb builds)
  • A1: Larger bed size, budget option without enclosure
  • P1S: Enclosed, works for both home and schools
  • X1 Carbon: Premium option for advanced teams also competing in Full Combat
  • Real example: Placer Robotics Center uses 4x P1S + 1x X1 Carbon

Other Popular Options

  • Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro:
  • Elegoo Centauri Carbon:
  • Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo: g
  • Creality K1C:

Key Considerations

  • Build volume needed: 180mm+ for most ant weight parts
  • Bambu ecosystem: Plug-and-play but higher cost
  • Other brands: Often require more setup and troubleshooting
  • Schools: Enclosed printers often required for safety

Avoiding Common Failures

Most print failures in combat robotics come from these preventable issues.

Layer Adhesion Problems

  • Properly clean bed, scrub with a microfiber cloth and alcohol. Apply glue if your build plate calls for it
  • Print 5-10°C above minimum temperature recommendations
  • Ensure proper bed leveling and first layer adhesion
  • Use the correct print profiles. Search for manufacture print profiles.

Part Orientation

  • Align stress loads parallel to layer lines, not across them
  • Use generous fillets (2mm+ radius) at stress concentrations
  • Test critical parts before final assembly