Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of Thermax PEI, also known as Ultem™ 9085? Get ready to explore this incredible 3D printing filament, its applications, and unique properties.
What is Thermax PEI (Ultem™ 9085)?
Thermax PEI, often referred to as Ultem™ 9085, is an ultra-high-performance 3D printing filament. It is known for its outstanding attributes, including low smoke toxicity, high flame resistance, exceptional heat resistance, and remarkable strength at elevated temperatures. This material is produced by 3DX Tech in the USA.
Where You’ll Find Ultem™ 9085
Ultem™ 9085 has found its way into various industries due to its impressive combination of strength and durability. You can discover this remarkable material in sectors such as medical, electronics, and manufacturing. Its extreme strength, FST (flame, smoke, toxicity) ratings, and relatively straightforward printing process make it a valuable resource in these fields.
Real-World Applications
Ultem™ 9085 is not just a theoretical concept; it has real-world applications. This material is commonly used for creating customized lightweight tools, prototypes, and housing parts. For example, Formula SAE employs Ultem™ 9085 parts for components like exhaust and intake manifolds, brackets, and electronic parts. Space agencies like NASA also rely on Ultem™ 9085 due to its low off-gassing properties and exceptional low-temperature performance.
Commercial airlines use Ultem™ 9085 for interior parts in aircraft cabins, such as table trays, overhead bins, and wall components. This choice is driven by its UL 94 V0 flammability rating and low off-gassing characteristics, making it a safe option even in case of a fire.
Printing with Ultem™ 9085
Using Ultem™ 9085 requires specific printing conditions. You’ll need a 3D printer capable of achieving a nozzle temperature ranging from 350 to 380 degrees Celsius. The print bed should be set at a minimum of 140 degrees Celsius, up to 160 degrees Celsius to ensure proper adhesion. Additionally, a controlled chamber temperature between 90 to 180 degrees Celsius is crucial, particularly for larger prints.
Drying Ultem™ 9085
Properly drying Ultem™ 9085 is essential, as is the case with most thermoplastic materials. Moisture can negatively impact the printing process. VisionMiner offers a complete kit, including a vacuum chamber and ovens, to facilitate the drying process. These tools are indispensable for ensuring the filament’s quality.
Material Specifications
Ultem™ 9085 is a high-temperature filament with a glass transition temperature of 186 degrees Celsius and a heat deflection temperature of around 158 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for demanding applications.
When it comes to tensile strength, Ultem™ 9085 can achieve approximately 54 megapascals, but it’s important to note that print orientation and design can influence the actual strength. Depending on how a part is printed, some loss of strength can occur, particularly in the z-axis.
Ultem™ 9085 also boasts excellent resistance to environmental factors. It’s resistant to gamma and UV radiation, making it ideal for outdoor exposure and sterilization processes. Moreover, it does not absorb water after printing, making it suitable for underwater or wet environments.
Chemical Resistance and Electrical Properties
This material exhibits resistance to a wide range of chemicals, including automotive fluids, gasoline, hydrocarbons, and various solutions. It has excellent electrical insulating properties, with a low dielectric constant and dissipation factor over a broad range of temperatures and frequencies.
Ultem™ 9085 in Extreme Environments
Ultem™ 9085 meets military standards for fungal resistance, making it suitable for extreme environments. It also holds the UL 94 V0 FST (flame, smoke, and toxicity) rating, making it a favored choice in aerospace applications where low smoke generation is essential.
Ultem™ 9085’s Impressive Ductility
One of the most striking aspects of Ultem™ 9085 is its ductility. Unlike some materials that shatter upon impact, Ultem™ 9085 demonstrates impressive impact resistance and ductility. When subjected to force, it bends and stretches rather than breaking apart, making it a durable and reliable choice.
Ultem™ 9085: Where Safety Meets Performance
Ultem™ 9085 has demonstrated its self-extinguishing properties when exposed to fire, making it a safe material for high-temperature applications. Its combination of outstanding strength, chemical resistance, and safety features make it a top choice for demanding industries.
If you’re considering Ultem™ 9085 for your 3D printing projects, be sure to explore the full range of materials available on our website, along with machines and tools to support your needs. Thank you for joining us on this journey through the incredible world of Thermax PEI (Ultem™ 9085). If you found this information valuable, please like and subscribe for more engaging content. We’re here to provide you with the knowledge you need to make informed choices for your 3D printing endeavors. Have a fantastic day!