igus iglidur i230: SLS technology enters “hotter” applications

igus presented the latest material from the Iglidur family, which can operate comfortably at temperatures of 110°C and even withstand short-term extreme temperatures of up to 170°C. However, these are not the only advantages of this material. This could be a revolution for many industries.

Selective laser sintering (SLS) technology is currently the dominant technology in the industry, especially in the production of short and medium product series. This is due to the optimal combination of factors such as: printing speed, relatively low price of the material, high accuracy and lack of support structures. However, the dominant PA12 material in this technology has a significant limitation in terms of temperature resistance, which is a maximum of 80°C. Above this ceiling, prints begin to deform. This limitation excludes the use of elements made of PA12 in many areas, such as engine compartments or air conditioning devices.

Paul Gomer, specialist for 3D printing materials at igus, assures that iglidur i230 has successfully passed rigorous tests in certified external laboratories, which confirm its high thermal resistance. In addition, this material is also characterized by approximately 80% higher abrasion resistance than PA12 due to the addition of a solid lubricant, which drastically reduces operating costs. In bending tests, it also showed 50% higher strength than commonly used polyamide.

Another advantage of this new material is its electrostatic dissipative properties, which protects it against electrostatic discharges. The lack of these properties in PA12 is a common reason for using other technologies despite higher costs.

Recognizing the growing demand for 3D printed components that can withstand higher temperatures, igus introduced the iglidur i230. Developed by Paul Gomer, 3D printing specialist at igus, this new SLS printing material has undergone rigorous testing in certified external laboratories, meeting the DIN EN ISO 75 HDT-A and HDT-B standards for heat resistance. iglidur i230 not only withstands long-term use temperatures of up to 110°C, but can withstand short-term extreme temperatures of up to 170°C without deformation.

Source: www.igus.de