3D printing has evolved rapidly in recent decades, from a technology limited to certain basic plastics to an ecosystem of highly advanced materials. Today, it is possible to manufacture parts with amazing mechanical, thermal and chemical properties, expanding the application possibilities in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, medical and advanced manufacturing.
In this article we explore the most innovative materials used in 3D printing, from high-performance polymers to high-strength metals.
Advanced Polymers: Beyond PLA and ABS
PLA and ABS have been the predominant materials in 3D printing for years due to their ease of use and relatively low cost. However, industry demands have driven the development of much more sophisticated polymers:
- PEEK (Polyether-ether-ketone): It is a high-performance polymer that stands out for its mechanical and thermal resistance, withstanding temperatures of up to 250°C. It is used in medical, aerospace and oil and gas industry applications.
- Ultem (PEI – Polyetherimide): Another material with excellent thermal and chemical resistance, widely used in the manufacture of aircraft components and medical devices.
- Nylon with carbon fiber: This compound significantly improves the strength and stiffness of printed parts, making them suitable for structural applications in the automotive and manufacturing industries.
These polymers offer a combination of light weight, strength and thermal stability, making them ideal materials for manufacturing functional parts in demanding environments within 3D printing services.
Photopolymer resins: precision and superior finishes
3D printers using SLA (stereolithography) or DLP (digital light processing) technology use photopolymer resins, which are cured by exposure to UV light. Some of the more advanced resins include:
- Biocompatible resins: Used in dentistry and medical prosthetics, these resins make it possible to manufacture temporary implants, surgical guides and dental models with high precision.
- Flexible and elastomeric resins: Ideal for creating parts with silicone-like properties used in protective components and medical devices.
- High-temperature resins: They resist extreme temperatures and are used in the manufacture of molds and components subjected to high thermal loads.
The main advantage of these resins is their ability to produce parts with extremely fine details and smooth surfaces, which makes them very valuable for rapid prototyping.
Metals in 3D printing: strength and precision for industrial applications
Metal 3D printing enables the production of complex parts that were previously impossible to manufacture using traditional processes. Some of the most commonly used metals include:
- Titanium: With an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and high biocompatibility, it is widely used in the aerospace industry and in medical implants.
- Stainless steel: Its high mechanical and corrosion resistance makes it ideal for applications in the automotive, food and tooling industries.
- Aluminum: Light and strong, used in the manufacture of structural components for aviation and automotive applications.
- Nickel-based superalloys (Inconel): Capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, they are used in aviation turbines and in the energy industry.
Selective laser sintering (SLS) and laser melting (SLM) technology have made metal additive manufacturing possible, enabling the production of highly detailed parts with excellent mechanical properties.
In short, advances in 3D printing materials have greatly expanded the potential of this technology, enabling the manufacture of functional parts for a wide variety of industries. From high-performance polymers to engineered metals, the diversity of available materials continues to grow, driving innovation and adoption of additive manufacturing in the industry. With the evolution of new formulations and material combinations, 3D printing will continue to redefine production processes for years to come.
At Proto&Go! we specialize in HP’s Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printing technology, designed for industrial applications. This technique allows us to manufacture parts in different materials for 3D printing, such as Polyamide PA12, a rigid and resistant material, or TPA, a robust and flexible material.
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