3D printed tooling parts for demanding environments

Different manufacturing processes often call for customised tools, fasteners and other aids, and 3D printing has historically proven its cost-effectiveness to support such processes. But when manufacturing processes involve strong chemicals and high temperatures, or when excellent electrical insulation is required, very few materials prove suitable for the application. That’s when special polymers – which last where other materials struggle – come to the rescue.

Product Designer Kalle Leander explains why Permascand decided upon a miniFactory Ultra 3D Printer, the type of parts produced by the unit and the benefits enjoyed during the first year of use.

“Our production includes, for example, an etching plant that requires plastic parts with high chemical resistance. Consequently, the list of suitable materials is fairly short. Previously, we manufactured plastic parts by machining PTFE or PVDF materials, but we have switched to PPSU material with 3D printing. This material offers excellent chemical resistance and is therefore suitable for the relevant application” – says Leander.

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