3d Printing
WHAT IS ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING?
WHY IS IT THE FUTURE?
One of the fastest-growing manufacturing technologies for the automotive, aerospace, defense, and healthcare industries is additive manufacturing/3D printing. Different types of polymers are used by 3D printers all around the world to produce new parts more quickly and at lower costs than would be possible with conventional manufacturing techniques.
Companies must continually assess if these procedures will help them or damage them as additive manufacturing spreads across several industries. A rise in possibilities may also signal a rise in issues.
WHY 3D PRINTED PARTS CAN FALL SHORT OF EXPECTATIONS
- Although rapid prototyping, small-batch production, and quick turnaround times are made possible by additive manufacturing, the performance of these parts is constrained.These are a few of the most common challenges with 3D printed parts:
- Water absorption. Moisture can degrade the plastic.
- Heat deflection. High heat can melt the plastic.
- Lack of color choices or finish options.
- Brittle part structure. Parts are not as solid or strong as injection molding or CNC metals.
- There is still much to be desired from 3D parts without having to create or switch to a higher cost material.
HOW DOES CERAKOTE SOLVE THESE PROBLEMS? WHY IS IT THE INDUSTRY’S LEADING FINISH?
The finish offered by Cerakote® enhances the performance and physical characteristics of polymers. Polymers can be coated using our air cure and oven cure coatings. Cerakote H-Series polymers can be oven-cured at temperatures between 150°F and 180°F.
For polymers, Cerakote can provide:
Hydrophobic properties – repels water and prevents water absorption.
Chemical resistance to acids and solvents, protecting against chemical attack or solvent reaction.
Scratch resistance to plastics that would otherwise wear with use.
Thermal barrier properties – protects the surface from high heat exposure.
As Cerakote changes the surface of the polymer to a tougher and more durable finish, it is considered as a “post-processing” coating.
Cerakote gives pieces a beautiful polish as well. The H-Series offers the option of giving grey, chalky parts a bright, lively surface treatment, a metallic finish, or even an anodized appearance. There are hundreds of colors available. The appearance of a part can change from that of a “3D part” to that of an injection-molded or anodized machined item.
Get Started with Cerakote®:
If you are interested in implementing ceramic coating using Cerakote®, you can email or call us, and we will lead the way.
AVOID DIY:
Don’t make it harder for you. Some of our customers inquire after a failed DIY project. The coating is not for everyone, and if you want a flawless output, you will need our help. We have been in the metal coating industry for years and maintain customer satisfaction for every coating service we do.
Inquire for a certified
cerakote applicator:
We have certified applicators ready for service. Just email or call us to inquire or learn more. You can also fill out our FORM to find a Cerakote® applicator within your area.