Hello, everyone! Today, we’re diving into the fascinating world of Thermax PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide) and its remarkable applications in 3D printing. PPS is a high-performance polymer that offers a unique combination of extreme chemical resistance, superior mechanical properties, and impressive thermal performance.
The Marvel of Thermax PPS
Thermax PPS stands out as one of the most chemically resistant thermoplastic materials globally, capable of withstanding exposure to a wide range of chemicals. It’s almost like a superhero of the 3D printing world, remaining insoluble in any known solvent below 200 degrees Celsius. Yes, you heard it right, this material is incredibly resilient.
So, where does this extraordinary material find its applications? Thermax PPS is a favorite in the automotive, chemical processing, oil and gas industries, and electronics. Moreover, it comes with inherent flame retardant properties, making it ideal for electronics and electrical applications where safety is paramount.
When you order Thermax PPS from our website, don’t forget to check out our rewards program. Every purchase earns you points that you can redeem for various goodies like filament, nozzles, adhesive, and more. It’s our way of saying thanks!
Printing with Thermax PPS
To harness the potential of Thermax PPS, you need a 3D printer equipped to handle its unique characteristics. Your nozzle should be capable of reaching at least 315 degrees Celsius, though aiming for 345 degrees or higher is even better. Your print bed needs to maintain a minimum temperature of 120 degrees Celsius, but we usually set it around 160 degrees for optimum results.
When it comes to adhesive, our Nanopolymer adhesive works wonders in keeping your prints securely attached to the bed, whether it’s carbon fiber, glass, or PEI. Additionally, maintaining a chamber temperature ranging from 60 to 90 degrees Celsius helps minimize warping during printing.
For support material, you can use Thermax High-Temp Support, readily available in our store. Or, if you prefer soluble supports, we also offer Offices 180. These options make a world of difference during the printing process.
Unlocking the Potential with Annealing
After printing with Thermax PPS, consider annealing your creations to maximize their chemical, thermal, and mechanical resistance properties. Annealing typically involves heating at around 130 degrees Celsius for two to four hours. It’s a step that can take your prints to the next level.
Dealing with Moisture
Here’s a crucial tip: always remember to dry Thermax PPS before you start printing. Even when fresh out of the box, this material can absorb enough moisture to cause printing issues, especially at high temperatures. Our website offers a full drying kit, complete with a vacuum chamber, to ensure your prints come out as intended. It’s the best way to eliminate moisture-related problems and guarantee strong, high-quality prints.
Material Specifications
Let’s delve into some basic specifications for Thermax PPS. It boasts a melting temperature of 285 degrees Celsius and a glass transition point of 85 degrees Celsius. This semi-crystalline material offers outstanding chemical resistance and is insoluble in any known solvent below 200 degrees Celsius.
Thermax PPS also possesses inherent flame resistance and self-extinguishing properties, making it an ideal choice for critical applications. Its long-term hydrolytic stability allows it to be used underwater, and its low moisture absorption ensures stable performance over time.
But that’s not all – Thermax PPS offers exceptional strength and modulus, even at elevated temperatures. It maintains a stable dielectric constant and dissipation factor across a wide range of temperatures and frequencies.
Witnessing the Magic of Thermax PPS
Now, let’s explore some example parts printed with Thermax PPS. We’ve covered quite a range here, from the obligatory Benchy model used for stress-testing 3D printers to intricate electronics enclosures and complex structures designed for the aerospace sector.
One key feature is the excellent layer adhesion, resulting in a surface finish that’s smoother than you might expect from materials like ABS or polycarbonate. Despite its unique flow characteristics, you can achieve fine details and intricate designs with Thermax PPS.
Exploring Material Properties
We’ve also put Thermax PPS through some tests, including bending and breaking. It exhibited impressive impact strength, avoiding shattering and offering resilience. However, we did notice variations in layer adhesion, highlighting the importance of printing parameters and optimization.
And yes, we couldn’t resist setting some Thermax PPS parts on fire. The results were encouraging, with the material demonstrating self-extinguishing properties. It’s a great choice for applications where fire safety is essential.
Final Thoughts
Thermax PPS is a material that opens doors to a wide range of applications, especially in industries where extreme chemical resistance and flame retardancy are essential. If you’re interested in trying it out for your projects, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to make your 3D printing journey easier and more exciting. Also, if you found this video informative, please hit the like button and subscribe for more. Let us know in the comments what you’d like to see next. We’re starting a new series, and your input matters!
For detailed data and product information, visit our website. We’ve got data sheets, material specifications, and much more. Thank you for watching, and have a fantastic day!