The polymer materials experts at Evonik have developed a new material called INFINAM TPC (thermoplastic co-polyester), in close collaboration with Asian powder bed fusion printers manufacturer Farsoon. This new material is also the industry’s first high-performing flexible thermoplastic co-polyester powder, claims Evonik.
Evonik is a corporation dedicated to specialty chemicals, employing more than 30,000 people globally. The recent announcement of a new elastomer powder – INFINAM TPC – developed in conjunction with Farsoon has expanded the company’s presence in the additive manufacturing materials market.
The company entered the additive manufacturing industry with the introduction of INFINAM – its own brand of 3D printing materials. INFINAM’s current materials palette consists of PEEK filaments, photopolymer resins as well as a range of powders.
Industry’s first
The idea behind the INFINAM TPC powder was to develop a high-performing material characterized by great strength, as well as flexibility. Combining such properties into a single powder material unlocks new possibilities for powder fusion applications, driving the whole segment forward.
With TPC powder it’s possible to manufacture parts characterized by impressive tear strength, a higher percentage of elongation at break, and excellent impact resistance as well as rebound.
Manufacturing on Demand
Powder bed fusion technologies are becoming a rising star in the additive industry, and with materials such as the new INFINAM TPC, powder bed fusion will be ready to make an even greater impact on sectors such as medical, automotive, and sporting goods.
“Having successfully qualified our PA613 powders on Farsoon’s machines two years ago, we are now jointly entering the market for elastomer-based 3D applications. This will open up new opportunities for users to push the boundaries of 3D printing by being able to manufacture tough parts with reliable and easy processing.”, said Dr. Arnim Kraatz, Director of Powder Bed Fusion at Evonik.
While Farsoon contributed their comprehensive know-how in the field of powder bed fusion, Evonik gave their best when it comes to chemical engineering. Such partnership paves the way to success, as Farsoon unlocks new possibilities for their machines, and Evonik positions itself amongst the leaders in the development of materials for additive manufacturing.
Open systems philosophy
While creating the newly realized INFINAM TPC powder, both companies had an open systems philosophy in mind. This means that the powder was developed in a way that it can be suited for use on different machines, giving existing and new customers the freedom to choose the material for their specific applications. The testing phase of TPC took place at Farsoon Americas Demo Center, in Austin, Texas.
In order to familiarise customers with the newly presented powder, Evonik and Farsoon are sending INFINAM TPC sample prints to their existing customers, as well as a free 20kg testing kit for customers interested in testing the new material.
As of now, only Evonik’s current customers have access to this exclusive offer. However, one month after the launch, the offer will be available to the public, Evonik claims.
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Author: Leo Greguric
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