3D printing opens up exciting new applications for us. Especially when composite materials are printed, whole new dimensions in stability, stiffness, heat resistance and durability emerge.
There are many areas where such 3D printing is the solution we are looking for:
- Laminating molds for very low volumes or quick sample
- Printed parts in vacuum baging for intricate areas or bolting points on the B-side
- Three-dimensional parts that are difficult or impossible to produce with conventional core materials such as foam or honeycomb
- And the like
A technology that is dynamically evolving
We still consider 3D printing with composite material to be one of the innovative technologies; we are at the “experimenting and optimizing” stage. Fear of contact is not necessary and pioneering spirit is rewarded.
One example is the design of a simple component and tool that I developed to print different materials and test parameters.
A quick winner
After a little math and various trials with material and parameters, the winner was found. It easily withstood 2 bars of pressure and 120 degrees of heat in an autoclave.
On this basis, two quick carbon sample parts were created, one of which was sanded and given a clear coat. Considering the ultimately very short production time, I find the result convincing.
Of course, the surface of the tool can still be improved via various settings – such as the layer height. But the painted part still shows that very good quality is possible for a quick first part. For many application purposes, this is quite sufficient.
Interested in 3D printing with composite material?
I have been dealing with 3D printing of composite parts for quite a while now and could gain a lot of experience. Why not use my know-how for the development and optimization of your production processes and drastically shorten the learning curve. You can reach me at +49 7161 988-4470 or info@linge-composite.de