In this years, show at Formnext, global German printer maker showcased its Fine Detail Resolution polymer-based 3D printing technology. The latest procedure makes use of CO laser to 3D printing fragile yet strong polymer sections. The components have fine detail resolution (FDR) and a minimum wall thickness of 0.22 mm.
Image source: EOS.
EOS says that it’s the first producer to make a process for powder associated 3D printing. This is by use of a CO laser. Also, the firm emphasises that its FDR technology may make new apps for 3D printing in series production. It also extends customers’ alternative for choosing the appropriate EOS 3D printing technology for polymers.
The Senior Vice President Polymer Division, TIM Ruttermann says: “The new technology will combine the best of two worlds – the detailed resolution of stereolithography (sla) with the durability and quality of selective laser sintering (sls).”
Fine Detail Resolution (FDR) technology for polymer 3D printing
Supplied with a 50 W CO laser, FDR is created for 3D printing apps that involve fragile structures. It is also for surfaces with an FDR as well as thin wall thickness. The CO laser type makes an ultra-fine laser beam. It has a centre diameter supposedly half of the size of present SLS technologies.
Therefore, it may assist to make new exposure parameters that lead to the development of superfine surfaces.
Up to this point, the FDR procedure has been tested and qualified with PA 1101. The material is processed in a layer thickness of 60 and 40 µm. It is high impact resistant and has a high extension at the break. Additionally, PA 1101 is created from renewable virgin materials.
EOS is developing FDR technology for its polymer creation platform. The intention is to make new apps for polymer associated 3D printing. They include fluid channels, plugs, filter units, as well as other electronic parts. Consumer goods like eyeglasses are also part of this.
EOS positions the new CO laser associated FDR technology together with its P 500 and LaserProFusion 3D printing technologies. This is to cover three varying different apps for polymer associated additive manufacturing.
FDR technology concentrates on making fine components. The EOS P 500 SLS 3D printer is created to make polymer parts. The parts focus on the flexibility of the material. It is furnished with a CO2 laser with an output of 2x 70 W. This has the ability to process materials like PA 11, TPU, PA 12, P6, and other high-performance polymers. The platform was unveiled in 2017 and it’s intended for apps in the electronics and automotive industry.
The LaserProFusion technology by EOS made its debut at Formnext 2018. The procedure is intended for utmost productivity since it’s supplied with one million diode lasers. The lasers are capable of producing above five kilowatts of piled up laser power. The technology is mainly focused on meeting the needs of series manufacture. EOS says that it may be utilized as a substitution for injection molding in different apps.
“In future, depending on application requirements, customers will, therefore, be able to choose between the existing EOS P 500 version with a CO2 laser for high productivity and material flexibility; or the CO laser-based FDR technology for manufacturing extremely delicate components; or, if the focus is on maximum productivity with dedicated application material, they can decide for the upcoming EOS LaserProFusion technology concept that was showcased for the first time at the Formnext 2018,” Comments Dr. Rüttermann.
