FOOD / FOR FOOD

GLOBAL 3D's offer includes food filaments - carefully selected materials for "food contact" applications that combine high print quality with hygiene requirements. It is a great base for prototypes of packaging, kitchen accessories and auxiliary elements in food-related processes. These filaments are characterized by a predictable process, smooth surfaces and dimensional stability. Choosing food-safe filament from the GLOBAL 3D offer allows you to go from idea to finished detail faster.

What does "food contact" mean in FDM/FFF printing?

"Food contact" refers to both the composition of the material and the method of its processing. The filament for contact with food is only half the success - the cleanliness of the material path, the type of nozzle and the surface finish are also important. The FDM layered structure may create micro-gaps, therefore, for elements requiring increased hygiene, it is recommended to additionally seal the surface with appropriate coatings and use it carefully. Thanks to this, the food-safe filament will also retain its properties in practice.

Applications of food filaments in practice

The most popular implementations include - kitchen accessories (measuring cups, funnels, spice organizers), packaging prototypes (lids, caps, inserts), assembly elements and separators on test lines, as well as educational models supporting HACCP standards.

• Speed ​​is important in prototyping - the filament approved for food contact allows you to quickly check ergonomics and fit.
• In short production runs, the repeatability of prints and the ease of keeping the surface clean are crucial.

Food filaments in the GLOBAL 3D offer

GLOBAL 3D's offer includes filaments with properties intended for contact with food from various manufacturers:

• Filament Tarfuse PLA NW9 AM - biodegradable filament with antibacterial properties that are confirmed by tests according to the PN-EN-ISO 846:2019-05E standard. It has antibacterial additives that are approved for marketing in the European Union and are compliant with the European Regulation on biocidal products.
• Filament Tarfuse PA AM - has antibacterial additives that have been included in the list of chemical compounds approved by OEKO-TEX. These additives significantly reduce the risk of spreading germs.
• Filament Omni3D ABS FC - made of granules that are certified for standard biocompatibility up to contact with food and medical applications in accordance with ISO 10993-1 USP Class VI and EU No. 10/20111 and 21 CFR FDA standards.
• Filament Omni3D PET-G-32 - approved for food contact and sterilization at makes the filament perfect for use in medicine and in the production of packaging for food products. Additionally, Omni3D PET-G-32 can be used to produce elements resistant to grease, gasoline or oil.

They differ in parameters and scope of applications, but what they have in common is the convenience of printing and the predictability of work on popular FDM/FFF devices.

• PET-G for food contact - very good interlayer adhesion, low shrinkage and chemical resistance. Recommended for funnels, dry product containers, dispensing elements and auxiliary covers.
• PLA with antibacterial properties - easy to print, allows for smooth walls and aesthetic details. Great for kitchen accessories, packaging prototypes and show pieces.
• ABS in the "food contact" version - higher thermal resistance than PLA, solidity and good dimensional stability. It is suitable for housings, handles and covers used in food production environments.
• PA (nylon) with antibacterial additives - very good durability and abrasion resistance; intended for technical elements, guides, spacers and test adapters.

Each of these materials was selected for repeatability, odor neutrality and easy process setup. Thanks to the wide temperature range, it is possible to concentrate on the geometry of the print, instead of constantly adjusting the profile.