Photocentric, inventor of LCD-based 3D printing, has teamed up with Mechnano to launch a ‘Mechnano-enhanced’ resin – a type of nanoengineered resin providing Electrostatic discharge (ESD) properties ideally suited to electronics manufacturing. When combined with Photocentric’s 3D printing expertise, the solution is ideal for additive manufacturing of parts like IC Trays, Part Retrievers, Grippers, ESD hand tools, and more.
Mechnano-enhanced Resin
CNTs can now be used in additive manufacturing materials thanks to Mechnano’s proprietary MechT technology, which provides significantly increased strength as well as other key desirable properties. CNTs are 1,000 times harder than diamond, 10,000 times smaller than a human hair, 100 times stronger than steel, and 1000 times more conductive than copper. Mechnano’s extensive research and development into the technology – which cost millions of dollars – has solved the problem of CNTs clumping in knots, allowing them to transfer key beneficial properties into resins.
According to Paul Anfinson, CEO of Photocentric USA 3D Inc., “We’re delighted to partner with Mechnano to deliver what we believe will be a terrific innovation for the electronics manufacturing industry when paired with our proficiency in resin development. Damage caused by ESD is a huge issue in this sector, and this solves a previous challenge when it came to additive manufacturing, with our nanoengineered resin not only strengthening the product but also imbuing the material with the necessary ESD properties. The strength of materials can be hindered or compromised by other ESD additives but not with Mechnano’s technology, so we have something truly unique here. The addition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) opens up many more exciting applications for our additive manufacturing solutions.”
Bryce Keeler, President of Mechnano expressed his excitement saying, “We’re very excited to be working with Photocentric to share the exceptional material advancements that our innovation can bring to additive manufacturing. Having a robust printer that delivers a strong price-value proposition is ideal for entry into electronics manufacturing market, and that is why they are a perfect partner for this product. Thanks to Photocentric, these ESD parts now can be printed in just a few hours instead of taking weeks or months to machine parts or moulds from aluminium, titanium, or composites. We’ve developed a great working relationship with Photocentric and look forward to continuing this as we seek exciting opportunities.”
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