Nylon 12 is a great material that can be used in applications for repetitive snap fits, high-fatigue resistance, strong chemical resistance, and press fit inserts. The material exhibits 100% to 300% better elongation at break and has superior fatigue resistance over other additive manufacturing technologies. However, in order to achieve optimum part performance, it is important to follow best practices when 3D printing with FDM Nylon 12.
BUILD MODE
When programming parts for printing, it is important to observe wall thickness for the following reasons:
- Due to some part geometry, specific build modes enable optimization of part quality and mechanical properties.
- User can select a specific build mode in Insight while processing parts.
- After selecting the required build mode for your part, the software automatically adjusts the oven temperature to control the crystallization rate and reduce internal stresses.
SACRIFICIAL TOWER
When packing the parts on the build tray in control center, it is important to use the sacrificial tower feature. The tower is set as the first part in the pack on the build tray. This results in any extra purge material being deposited on the tower rather than on other parts of the pack.
MOISTURE CONTROL
All FDM material is sensitive to moisture before being 3D printed. When moisture has contaminated the material, it can affect the dimensional accuracy of the parts resulting in warping, bubbles, and delamination. Keeping the canisters sealed is imperative. Nylon build sheets are particularly susceptible to moisture.
Quick Tip: Keep an extra sheet under the build platform inside the oven. This keeps the sheets dry, making it easier to obtain vacuum.
POST-PROCESSING
When removing the build job from the 3D printer, only handle it by the build sheet. Do not touch parts while they are still at temperature. This maintains the integrity and dimensional accuracy of the part. To maximize its durability, Nylon 12 should be conditioned. Conditioning a part is simply the act of exposing it to moisture.
Find more on best practices for Nylon 12, download the full Tech Tip White Paper
