Materialise, a global leader in 3D printing and additive manufacturing solutions, has expanded its additive manufacturing portfolio by introducing Polyamide 12S (PA 12S), Polyamide 11 (PA 11) for Multi Jet Fusion, and Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polyamide (PA-CF) for fused deposition modelling. This expansion makes industrial 3D printing accessible to companies from various industries to use 3D printing for serial production and prototyping.
With these additions, Materialise now offers over 38 materials, giving customers a diverse selection to meet their specific project needs.
In recent years, the global adoption of 3D printing has increased dramatically, transforming traditional manufacturing processes and opening up new possibilities in product development, customisation, and supply chain management. Businesses looking to innovate and remain competitive in today’s fast-paced market require dependable partners with a diverse portfolio and consistent part quality.
Making Industrial 3D Printing accessible to companies
Materialise continues to drive innovation and accessibility in the field of industrial 3D printing by expanding its manufacturing service offerings with PA 11, PA 12S, and PA-CF materials. This helps businesses realise their applications and accelerates the adoption of additive manufacturing for serial production and prototyping across various industries.
The new materials provide numerous advantages, including exceptional mechanical properties, durability, and versatility, making them ideal for a wide range of industrial applications across multiple sectors.
“Our decision to incorporate PA 11, PA 12S, and PA-CF materials into our portfolio reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our customers and empowering them to explore new possibilities and unlock the full potential of industrial 3D printing. We constantly evaluate emerging materials and technologies. The new HP PA 12S is a strong addition, and we are proud to be an early adopter.”
– Pieter Vos, Marketing & Product Director, Materialise
PA 11 for Medical Technology Sector
One of the primary benefits of using PA 11 with HP Multi Jet Fusion is the ability to meet the growing demand for additive manufacturing in the medical technology sector. It has unique properties that make it ideal for a variety of medical technology applications involving 3D printing. Its biocompatibility, durability, and flexibility make it possible to manufacture high-performance orthotics, prosthetics, and machinery components.
Volume Prototyping through HP PA 12S
Materialise Manufacturing is one of the early adopters of Polyamide 12S for HP Multi Jet Fusion. The material presents itself as a viable option for volume prototyping and parts that require good surface quality with minimal post-processing requirements. Its high level of detail and dimensional accuracy make it suitable for a wide range of applications, including consumer goods, industrial settings, and large-scale prototyping.
PA-CF for industrial applications
Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polyamide (PA-CF) for Fused Deposition Modelling represents a significant advancement in lightweight, high-strength components. PA-CF, made up of a thermoplastic filament reinforced with 35% chopped carbon fibre by weight, has exceptional flexural strength, resulting in an impressive stiffness-to-weight ratio. This unique combination makes it a viable alternative to heavier metal components in industries such as industrial machinery, aerospace, and automotive, particularly for tooling, prototyping, and end-of-life part applications.
About Materialise’s Manufacturing Division: Materialise Manufacturing enables 3D printing customers, including rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing, to meet tight production deadlines while maintaining the quality standards of even the most demanding industries. The division’s designers and engineers collaborate with customers to develop new products and applications that make effective use of 3D printing.
Two web platforms, Materialise OnSite for industrial orders and i.materialise for small businesses and consumers, provide convenient access to one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive 3D printing facilities. Furthermore, a certified manufacturing environment caters to customers who work in highly regulated industries.