Global 3D printing solution company 3D Systems, together with Swiss high-performance polymer and specialty chemical company EMS-GRILTECH (a subsidiary of EMS Group), has launched a nylon copolymer material usable in SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) 3D printers, supplying a new material compatible with SLS printing technology.

3D Systems announced on the 28th that it has launched 'DuraForm® PAx Natural,' a nylon copolymer material that can be used in all SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) 3D printers, in collaboration with EMS-GRILTECH, the first in the industry.

DuraForm PAx Natural is designed to be printed at low temperatures (120°C), boasting high efficiency in printing and post-processing, and significantly reduces part production time compared to nylon materials such as PA-11 and PA-12.

The low printing temperature allows for higher throughput, and since it is classified as a clean running material, operator maintenance is not frequently required. Parts can be shipped within one day of receiving the order.

This material can maintain its mechanical properties and color for over five years indoors. When parts are finished using steam polishing, the excellent translucency and smooth finish expand the material's application fields. With a high recycling rate of approximately 30%, it reduces waste and contributes to lowering production costs.

Dr. Edwin Hortelano, Senior Vice President of Materials Engineering and Development at 3D Systems, said, “With the launch of DuraForm PAx Natural, 3D Systems is now able to supply a new material that is compatible with any SLS printing technology, as well as capable of manufacturing superior products using mechanical properties,” adding, “We plan to expand this to other PBF (Powder-Bed Fusion) platforms in the future.”

Simon Maier, Sales and Marketing Manager at EMS-GRILTECH, said, “We decided to partner with 3D Systems and leverage our expertise to develop a material that demonstrates superior performance in PBF systems while possessing technical properties comparable to injection-molded parts,” adding, “EMS-GRILTECH has high expectations for the capabilities of DuraForm PAx Natural.”

Mike Littrell of CIDEAS explained, “DuraForm PAx Natural not only fundamentally disrupts the cost structure of SLS technology but is also significantly contributing to company revenue generation by enabling the production of parts that previously could not even be made using powder materials,” adding, “DuraForm PAx Natural is the perfect material that is suitable for applications and production sizes, as well as capable of producing high-quality finished products.”