Photopolymer
Photopolymer is a type of material used in 3D printing that cures or solidifies when exposed to light, typically ultraviolet (UV) light. Photopolymer 3D printing, also known as stereolithography (SLA), uses a liquid resin that contains photopolymer molecules. In the SLA process, the liquid resin is deposited onto a build platform, and a UV laser or projector is used to selectively cure the resin in the desired shape. The build platform is then lowered slightly, and the process is repeated until the entire object is complete. Photopolymer 3D printing offers several advantages over other types of 3D printing, including high resolution, excellent surface finish, and the ability to create complex geometries and fine details. Photopolymer 3D printing is often used in applications such as prototyping, product design, and jewelry making. One of the drawbacks of photopolymer 3D printing is that the resulting parts can be brittle and have limited durability, making them unsuitable for some applications. Additionally, photopolymer resins can be more expensive than other 3D printing materials, and the curing process can be time-consuming.
Agilus
Agilus is a family of flexible 3D printing materials developed by Stratasys, a leading manufacturer of 3D printers and printing materials. Agilus materials are designed to produce high-quality parts with rubber-like flexibility, durability, and tear resistance. Agilus 3D printing materials are commonly used in industries such as automotive, consumer products, and medical devices, where the ability to create flexible and resilient parts is crucial. Agilus materials come in a range of durometers, or hardness levels, and can be used with a variety of Stratasys 3D printers. Overall, Agilus 3D printing materials provide designers and engineers with a versatile tool for creating functional, durable parts with rubber-like characteristics.
TPU
TPU, or thermoplastic polyurethane, is a flexible 3D printing material that belongs to the family of elastomers. It is a popular material used for printing parts that require flexibility, durability, and good impact resistance. TPU is a versatile material that can be used to produce parts with different levels of flexibility, from soft and rubber-like to hard and rigid. It is also resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and oils, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. TPU is compatible with a variety of 3D printers and can be printed using both FDM and SLA technologies. When printing with TPU, it is important to adjust the printer settings to ensure good adhesion and avoid warping or curling of the printed parts. Overall, TPU is a useful material for producing functional parts that require flexibility, durability, and good impact resistance, such as phone cases, wearables, and parts for robotics and drones.
TPE
TPE, or thermoplastic elastomer, is a flexible 3D printing material that combines the properties of rubber with the processing advantages of plastics. It is a popular material used for printing parts that require flexibility, elasticity, and good impact resistance. TPE is a versatile material that can be used to produce parts with different levels of flexibility, from soft and rubber-like to hard and rigid. It is also resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and oils, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. TPE is compatible with a variety of 3D printers and can be printed using both FDM and SLA technologies. When printing with TPE, it is important to adjust the printer settings to ensure good adhesion and avoid warping or curling of the printed parts. Overall, TPE is a useful material for producing functional parts that require flexibility, elasticity, and good impact resistance, such as seals, gaskets, and parts for consumer products, automotive, and medical devices.