Filaments for ME

Question 1

Common print failures caused by filament?

Answer 1

Jamming or Slipping - Poor quality controls on filament production
Entanglement - Loss of tension on reel allowing filament to unwind and trap itself
Degredation - Storage and use damage

Question 2

Steps in filament manufacture process

Answer 2

Step 1: Add batch polymer into a hopper and then was melted
Step 2: Archemides screw creates pressure and friction
Step 3: Diameter is controlled by nozzle size, extrusion rate and pull rate
Step 4: Cooling
Step 5: Wind-up onto the reel

Question 3

Polymer for filaments =

Answer 3

Base polymer + Masterbatch

masterbatch can add colour or to change filament properties

Question 4

Considerations for storage of filaments

Answer 4

Some materials absort water
Temperature
UV

Question 5

Filament Selection with regards to Printer/Process

Answer 5

Diameter - most printers restricted to one input size
Stiffness - Remote or integrated feeded
Operating Temperature - Extrusion, bed and chamber
Emissions - Noxious or unpleasent fumes

Question 6

Filament Selection with regards to Application

Answer 6

Strength & Durability - impact, tensile 
Flexibile or rigidity
Optical 
Post process 
Environment

Question 7

ME Materials

Answer 7

1. PLA; Starch or sugards, 190-220 degrees, can be printed without heated bed, Rigid parts, Not hygroscopic
2. ABS; Fossil fuels, 230-280 degrees, Needs heated bed & chamber, Durable prints with good strength, Curling & warping common, High shrinkage rate
3. PETG; 230-260 degrees, Hygroscopic, Sticky during printing, Scratches easily
4. TPU/TPC; Very flexible, 220-250 degrees, without heat bed, good impact resistance, Tough, Difficult to priny (Jam before nozzle, Strings)