Today, we’re diving into the world of PPS, or Polyphenylene Sulfide. This remarkable polymer isn’t related to PSU or PPSU, but it boasts something extraordinary—it’s one of the most chemical-resistant polymers known to humankind, capable of withstanding every solvent under 200 degrees Celsius (approximately 392 degrees Fahrenheit). That’s twice the boiling point of water! So, what exactly is PPS?
The Basics of PPS
PPS, short for Polyphenylene Sulfide, is a partially crystalline high-temperature performance polymer. It’s been around since the 1940s, making it quite a venerable material. In its early days, PPS found applications in various fields, from electrical insulators to gaskets, and even as a filter fabric for cold boilers and something known as “paper-making felt” (if you have insights on that, let us know in the comments).
The Evolution of PPS
Phillips Petroleum played a pivotal role in PPS’s development. In 1973, they successfully established a manufacturing operation, producing an early version of PPS with a relatively low molecular weight. Over time, researchers found ways to increase its molecular weight through thermal cross-linking reactions, improving both processing and mechanical properties. Notably, this elevated molecular weight made PPS suitable for injection molding, enabling outstanding heat and chemical resistance.
3D Printing with PPS
One of the coolest things about PPS is that it’s 3D printable. With some modifications to your printer settings, you might be able to print PPS with a standard printer. It’s an affordable high-temperature material, sitting just 15 degrees away from the official “high-temperature” category. While PPS isn’t as commonly requested as other materials, it’s preferred in industries accustomed to CNC or injection molding due to its exceptional chemical resistance.
Applications of PPS
PPS has found its way into various applications, including aerospace and medical devices. Large aerospace companies use PPS for structural components like circuit board holders and wiring channels due to its remarkable strength and chemical resistance. Medical devices benefit from PPS for components like gears and levers, especially when exposed to harsh environments and chemical sterilization processes.
Printing and Pricing
While PPS is an excellent choice for extreme chemical resistance, it’s essential to handle it with care. It has a melting temperature of 285 degrees Celsius, but the glass transition temperature (Tg) is at 85 degrees Celsius. The heat deflection temperature is around 220 degrees Celsius, which means you can melt it at 285 degrees but should aim for extrusion temperatures of 320 to 330 degrees. A heated chamber and high-quality printer are recommended for successful PPS printing. It’s worth noting that PPS is more affordable than materials like ULTEM but slightly pricier than PSU and PPSU.
Experimenting with PPS
Given its unique properties, PPS is a material for those who dare to experiment. If you need extreme chemical resistance or aspire to print a high-temperature polymer on your lower-temperature printer, PPS could be your next challenge. Just remember, always know what you’re doing and ensure your printer is well-equipped for the task.
Join the Discussion
Do you have any questions about PPS or any stories to share? We’re here to help and eager to hear your experiences. Remember, no matter your 3D printing journey, it’s all about learning and progressing. And if you have insights into the “paper-making felt” mystery, leave a comment below! Thank you for watching, and stay tuned for more exciting content.