Independent university study evaluates material properties over time for PC and ABS plastic parts produced via Stratasys FDM process
MINNEAPOLIS — (BUSINESS WIRE) — August 31, 2011 — (NASDAQ: SYSS) Stratasys Inc., maker of additive manufacturing machines for prototyping and producing plastic parts, announces findings from an independent and extensive performance study characterizing the effects of time, temperature and environment on the mechanical properties of PC (polycarbonate) and ABS plastic parts made via the Fused Deposition Modeling ( FDM) process.
The first of its kind, this study provides critical data for manufacturers considering additive manufacturing for production parts or functional prototypes. This information is imperative as additive manufacturing moves from its roots in prototyping to production of finished goods.
“The finished product or prototype can be in service for extended periods of time and in varying conditions, so it is imperative to qualify the properties beyond published specifications,” the study stated.
The independent study was conducted over a 52 week period by Loughborough University, UK. The study was conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties over time of polycarbonate and ABS plastic parts made with the Stratasys Fused Deposition Modeling process and how the parts stand up in the extreme environments of heat, cold, moisture, and dryness.
“Stratasys has migrated into manufacturing and other high-requirement applications,” says Fred Fischer, Director of Materials Business Development for Stratasys. “And manufacturers are hungry for data on mechanical performance of additive processes. The Loughborough study offers statistically sound, comprehensive data, which will help engineers make decisions about additive manufacturing.”
For survey overview, specifications and detailed findings, download
Additive Mfg FDM Mat’ls Study / ABS
Additive Mfg FDM Mat’ls Study / PC
Stratasys, Inc., Minneapolis, is a maker of additive manufacturing machines for prototyping and producing plastic parts. The company markets under the brands Dimension 3D Printers and Fortus Production 3D Printers. The company also operates RedEye On Demand, a digital manufacturing service for prototypes and production parts. Stratasys manufactures 3D printers for Hewlett Packard, which it sells under the brand Designjet3D. In 2011 Stratasys acquired 3D printer maker, Solidscape, Inc. According to Wohlers Report 2011, Stratasys had a 41 percent market share in 2010, and has been the unit market leader for the ninth consecutive year. Stratasys patented and owns the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM®) process. The process creates functional prototypes and manufactured goods directly from any 3D CAD program, using high-performance industrial thermoplastics. The company holds more than 285 granted or pending additive manufacturing patents globally. Stratasys products are used in the aerospace, defense, automotive, medical, business & industrial equipment, education, architecture, and consumer-product industries. Online at: www.Stratasys.com
Fused Deposition Modeling is a trademark, and FDM and Stratasys are registered trademarks, of Stratasys, Inc.
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