3D Systems announced three new resin materials for their Figure 4 equipment.
The materials are intended for use in production of end-use parts, and offer notable durability and strength. 3D Systems describes them as ideal for snap-fit, load-bearing, and similar applications.
Two of the materials are related: FIGURE 4 TOUGH 65C BLACK and FIGURE 4 TOUGH 60C WHITE are suitable for many applications, but come in two different colors. 3D Systems explains:
“Suitable for repeatable, high mechanical load-bearing parts. These materials are ideal for consumer goods parts like snap-fits, brackets, sensors, handles, clips, holders, and mounts.”
The third material is FIGURE 4 RIGID GRAY, described as follows:
“Delivering a surface finish comparable to traditional molding, in a high contrast gray ideal for textures, lettering, and other high detail features. This material is suitable for painting, plating, and laser-etching, and is an excellent choice for consumer goods parts like housings, casings, and all types of rigid static production components.”
What’s different about these materials? It turns out that 3D Systems has designed them to be highly suitable for long-term outdoor applications. They explain:
“These Figure 4 materials are uniquely engineered for long-term mechanical performance and environmental stability. Unlike typical 3D printed photopolymers, these materials have been tested per ASTM D4329 and ASTM G194 methods to ensure indoor and outdoor mechanical performance out to 8 and 1.5 years, respectively. This testing provides assurance that printed parts remain functional and stable for years.”
These materials should open up new application possibilities for use with the Figure 4 System.
Via 3D Systems
