When 3D printing components for applications involving elevated temperatures, selecting the appropriate material is paramount. Several materials excel in heat resistance, each offering a unique balance of properties and processing challenges.
Heat-Resistant 3D Printing Materials Comparison
| Material | Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT) | Impact Strength | Chemical Resistance | Flammability | Ease of Printing | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PEI | High (170-210°C) | Good | Excellent | Good | Moderate | High |
| PEEK | Very High (>260°C) | Excellent | Excellent | Good | Difficult | Very High |
| PC | Moderate (130-150°C) | Excellent | Good | Good | Moderate | Moderate |
| ABS | Moderate (100-110°C) | Good | Good | Moderate | Moderate | Low |
| High-Temp PLA | Moderate (80-100°C) | Moderate | Moderate | Good | Easy | Low-Moderate |
| Nylon | Varies (depending on grade) | Good | Good | Moderate | Moderate | Low-Moderate |
| Ultem 9085 | High (153 °C) | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Difficult | Very High |
*Note: These are general comparisons. Specific properties can vary depending on the grade and manufacturer of the material.
PEI (Polyetherimide)
With its high heat deflection temperature (HDT) and excellent mechanical properties, PEI is a popular choice for demanding applications like aerospace components and chemical processing equipment. However, it requires high processing temperatures.
Pros:
- Excellent Heat Resistance: High HDT (around 170-210°C), making it suitable for demanding thermal applications.
- Good Mechanical Properties: Strong, stiff, and exhibits good impact resistance.
- Chemical Resistance: Resistant to many chemicals and solvents.
Cons:
- High Processing Temperature: Requires high nozzle temperatures, which can be challenging for some 3D printers.
- Can be Brittle: May become brittle at very low temperatures.
- Relatively Expensive: Compared to some other materials.
Applications:
- Aerospace components (e.g., heat shields, engine parts)
- Automotive parts (e.g., under-the-hood components)
- Chemical processing equipment (e.g., valves, pumps)
- Medical devices (e.g., sterilization trays)
PEEK (Polyetheretherketone)
It boasts exceptional heat resistance, making it suitable for extreme environments. Its high strength, stiffness, and chemical resistance make it ideal for aerospace, oil and gas, and medical applications. However, it demands very high processing temperatures and specialized 3D printers.
Pros:
- Exceptional Heat Resistance: Extremely high HDT (can exceed 260°C), making it one of the most heat-resistant 3D printing materials available.
- Outstanding Mechanical Properties: Very strong, stiff, and exhibits excellent creep resistance (resistance to deformation under sustained load).
- Chemical Resistance: Highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals and solvents.
Cons:
- Very High Processing Temperature: Requires very high nozzle temperatures and specialized 3D printers.
- Expensive: One of the most expensive 3D printing materials.
- Can be Challenging to Print: Requires careful parameter tuning and may require specialized nozzles.
Applications:
- Aerospace applications (e.g., high-temperature engine components)
- Oil and gas industry (e.g., downhole tools)
- Medical implants (due to its biocompatibility)
PC (Polycarbonate)
PC offers a good balance of heat resistance and impact resistance, making it suitable for automotive parts and medical devices. Its transparency is another key advantage. However, it’s prone to warping during printing, requiring careful support structures and an enclosed printing environment.
Pros:
- Good Heat Resistance: Decent HDT (around 130-150°C).
- Excellent Impact Resistance: Very tough and resistant to breakage.
- Transparency: Available in transparent or translucent options.
Cons:
- Prone to Warping: Can warp significantly during printing, requiring careful support structures and enclosure.
- Can be Challenging to Print: May require specialized printing techniques to minimize warping.
Applications:
- Automotive parts (e.g., housings, lenses)
- Medical devices (e.g., housings, instrument cases)
- Consumer electronics (e.g., protective cases)
ABS
ABS is a more readily available and easier-to-print option with good impact strength and chemical resistance. While its heat resistance is lower than PEI and PEEK, it’s suitable for applications where moderate heat resistance is sufficient.
Pros:
- Good Impact Resistance: Tough and durable.
- Chemical Resistance: Resistant to many chemicals and solvents.
- Relatively Easy to Print: More readily available and easier to print than some other high-temperature materials.
Cons:
- Prone to Warping: Warping can be a significant issue, requiring an enclosed printing environment.
- Lower Heat Resistance: Compared to PEI and PEEK, its heat resistance is lower.
Applications:
- Prototyping
- Consumer products
- Automotive parts (some applications)
High-Temperature PLA
PLA is a modified version of PLA with improved heat resistance. It offers a good balance of heat resistance, ease of printing, and mechanical properties, making it suitable for applications requiring moderate heat resistance.
Pros:
- Improved Heat Resistance: Offers higher heat resistance than standard PLA.
- Easier to Print: Generally easier to print than PEI, PEEK, and some other high-temperature materials.
- Good Balance of Properties: Provides a good balance of heat resistance, ease of printing, and mechanical properties.
Cons:
- Lower Heat Resistance Compared to Others: Not as heat-resistant as PEI or PEEK.
- Properties Vary Widely: Heat resistance can vary significantly between different brands and formulations.
Applications:
- Applications requiring moderate heat resistance (e.g., some automotive parts, jigs and fixtures)
Prototyping for higher-temperature applications
Nylon
Nylon offers good impact strength, abrasion resistance, and chemical resistance. It’s available in various grades with different heat resistance levels. However, it can be challenging to print due to its tendency to absorb moisture and can be abrasive to 3D printer nozzles.
Pros:
- Good Impact Strength: Tough and durable.
- Abrasion Resistance: Resistant to wear and tear.
- Chemical Resistance: Resistant to many chemicals and solvents.
Cons:
- Can be Challenging to Print:
- Prone to warping and moisture absorption.
- May require specialized drying procedures.
- Can be abrasive to 3D printer nozzles.
- Properties Vary Widely: Different grades of nylon exhibit different properties, including heat resistance.
Applications:
- Mechanical parts (e.g., gears, bearings)
- Automotive parts
- Industrial applications (e.g., jigs and fixtures)
Ultem 9085
Ultem 9085, a high-performance polyetherimide, exhibits exceptional heat resistance, mechanical strength, and chemical resistance, making it ideal for demanding applications in aerospace, automotive, and medical industries. The selection of the best heat-resistant material depends on the specific application requirements, including the desired level of heat resistance, mechanical properties, chemical resistance, and ease of printing.
Pros:
- Exceptional Heat Resistance: Retains its strength and stiffness at high temperatures, with a high heat deflection temperature (HDT).
- High Strength-to-Weight Ratio: Offers a good balance of strength and stiffness while maintaining a relatively low weight.
- Chemical Resistance: Resistant to a wide range of chemicals, including solvents, acids, and bases.
- Flame Retardant: Meets stringent flammability standards.
- Good Mechanical Properties: Exhibits high tensile strength, impact resistance, and fatigue resistance.
Cons:
- High Cost: Ultem 9085 is a premium material and can be significantly more expensive than other 3D printing filaments.
- Printing Challenges: Requires specialized 3D printers with high-temperature nozzles and heated chambers. Can be challenging to print due to its high viscosity and tendency to stick to the nozzle.
- Limited Availability: May not be as readily available as some other 3D printing materials.
Applications:
- Engine components, heat shields, aircraft interiors
- Under-the-hood components, high-performance engine parts
- Surgical instruments, sterilization trays, implants
- Downhole tools, high-temperature components
- High-temperature tooling, chemical processing equipment, aerospace tooling
FacFox offers a wide range of 3D printing services, including a variety of heat-resistant materials such as PEI, PEEK, and Ultem 9085. With our advanced 3D printing technologies and experienced engineers, we can help you bring your heat-resistant designs to life. Contact FacFox today to discuss your project and explore our 3D printing solutions.