As we have mentioned many times, large format 3D printing – regardless of the type of the technology, is associated with large problems resulting from material shrinkage. In the case of FDM / FFF technology, the solution is closed and heated working chambers or… quitting work with more serious thermoplastic materials and limiting to PLA, which has a slight shrinkage. The German BigRep specializing in the production of equipment with working areas up to 0.5 ~ 1 meter in the XYZ axes was well aware of this problem and the associated restrictions. Now, however, the company gives a clear signal that it has tame 3D printing from engineering materials, officially introducing the possibility of 3D printing from styrene materials – ABS and ASA.
ABS is a versatile and extremely popular material in the industry with a relatively high resistance to high temperatures and warping, making it suitable for end use in virtually any industry. In turn, ASA is a material resistant to UV radiation and external weather conditions. Like ABS, it has high mechanical resistance, but lower shrinkage during the 3D printing process. The filament exhibits greater heat resistance than ABS, and its UV and weather resistant properties prevent aging or fading of colors in industrial or automotive end parts.
BigRep advertises new filaments as dedicated for use in the automotive industry and the production of sports and consumer items that are used outdoors. Materials compatible with 3D printers of the company – STUDIO G2 and PRO (ACE). At the same time, the manufacturer emphasizes that the new materials reflect its “application-oriented” approach, working closely with business partners to meet their specific expectations and needs.
BigRep is one of the first companies in the world that in the era of consumer 3D printers decided to produce large format devices directed to the industry. It employs 90 employees – has a production plant in Berlin, Germany and offices in the above-mentioned Boston and Singapore. In mid-March this year we informed about a specific milestone in the form of delivery of a 500th 3D printer.
Source: www.bigrep.com