Can composite materials be used in 3D printing?

In: Knowledge On: 3 sierpnia 2021 Hit: 3806

What is 3D printing from composites, what is required for their use? - see the statement made by our specialist as part of the "Tips 3D" series together with the 3don.pl portal.

The use of composite materials in 3D printing

When working with 3D printer - especially in professional and industrial applications, we enter the sphere of the need to obtain specific physical properties of printed objects. Most often, these are resistance to high temperature, water and various chemicals, ensuring adequate strength while maintaining a low weight of the element, or simply visual aspects similar to wood, metal or stone.

3D printing with composite filaments

This is where composite materials come in handy, consisting of a base material acting as a binder and a certain amount of additional material added. The most popular composites include: Nylon with an admixture of ground carbon fiber which ensures high stiffness and impact resistance, temperature resistance up to 180ºC and also high dimensional stability - which supports its use as a replacement of metal in industry.

Another of the advanced composites is Polypropylene with an admixture of glass fiber, which is characterized by < b>chemical resistance to acids, alkalis, solvents and waterwhile offering incredible strength and lightness. Models made of this composite may be exposed to high temperatures (up to 120 ° C), chemicals and changing weather conditions - which is why the composite is used in the automotive and aviation industries.

So how do you approach working with composites?

Most specialized materials with fiber admixtures - are characterized by abrasive properties, so it is worth using a hardened steel nozzle. Due to the fiber content, higher layers above 0.2 mm and nozzles with larger diameters, e.g. 0.6 mm, are better for printing, as they ensure better material flow and proper extrusion.

It is also worth purchasing dedicated adhesives for a given material to ensure proper adhesion of the model to the work table.

Filament preparation

The key issue that may determine correct printing is proper storage and preparation of the filament itself. 3D printing material is best stored in a dry and stable environment to eliminate moisture absorption typical of highly hygroscopic composite materials. For this purpose, special devices with drying systems provide invaluable assistance - for storing and preparing filaments in controlled conditions.

Source: 3don.pl