3D Systems has introduced two production-class 3D printing materials compatible with the Figure 4 3D printer and for selective laser sintering (SLS). The first material is Figure 4 Tough Clear light-curing resin, and the second is DuraForm PAx Black polyamide powder. Both materials are scheduled to be commercially available in the fourth quarter of 2022. The materials are designed for “long-term mechanical performance and stability in any environment”. making them suitable for a wide variety of end uses, from consumer goods to aerospace and defense.
Figure 4 Tough Clear is the first transparent material designed for the Figure 4 3D printer, allowing the production of parts with excellent transparency. The material should find use in applications showing the flow of liquids and gases, and lighting – including lenses, optical fibers and shields. Applications extend to both large and small production runs of items such as handles, cranks, knobs and levers, structural supports, latches and fasteners, and consumer goods packaging.
The material delivers what 3D Systems describes as the desired combination of impact resistance and tensile strength that remain stable for up to eight years indoors and one and a half years outdoors, in accordance with ASTM D4329 and ASTM G154.
The second material – DuraForm PAx Black, can be used with any SLS printer. This recyclable nylon copolymer offers similar properties to injection molded plastics, as well as high impact resistance and high elongation at break in any direction. These properties make it a suitable material for the production of tough, lightweight, fabrication orthosis parts, tool holders, splints and braces, channels, floating hinges, fluid reservoirs and casings requiring high impact and high strength.
Additional features include low-temperature 3D printing at 120 ° C, long-term stability rates over five years, and a shiny and smooth surface finish after steam smoothing, which also lengthens its elongation with performance above the limit of other nylon materials such as PA-11 and PA -12.
Source: www.3dsystems.com
