Bond, seal and beautify 3D printed parts.
Smoothing a PPSF part with an outer skin of PEEK is a relatively simple process that requires few modifications to a standard thermoforming operation. The key differences are that PEEK is the thermoformed material and the FDM part serves as the thermoforming mold.
Following are highlights of the process. For a detailed, comprehensive description of thermoforming with FDM, see Stratasys’ “Thermoforming for Prototype and Short-Run Applications” guide.
Select the desired thickness of the PEEK sheet that will be thermoformed. The recommended thickness range is 0.003 to 0.005 inch (0.08 to 0.13 mm), but sheets as thick as 0.010 inch (0.25 mm) may be used.
Note that thicker sheets of PEEK will require more vacuum pressure during thermoforming and may resist drawing into small features. To compensate for the thermoformed sheet’s thickness, adjust the CAD model of the PPSF part by offsetting all external surfaces. Optionally, the CAD model may be modified to include a 0.050- inch (1.27 mm) deep ring around the perimeter of the mold. This ring will aid in bonding the PEEK film to the part.
To simplify and expedite the thermoforming process, modify the FDM build parameters to make the PPSF part more porous. This allows the vacuum in the thermoforming machine to be pulled through the part without having to manually drill vent holes around its periphery. Do this in Insight by adjusting the raster air gaps of the two outermost surfaces to 0.001 inch (0.03 mm). Also, change the model’s body raster air gaps to 0.010 inch (0.25 mm) to promote air flow through the part. Next, build the PPSF part an Fortus system. After the build is complete, remove the supports in preparation for thermoforming.
Mount the PPSF part on a base plate cut to a size that fi ts on the thermoforming machine’s platen. The base plate can be made from any rigid material that will withstand the heat of the thermoforming process. Load the PPSF part in the vacuum forming machine and insert a sheet of PEEK material.
To ensure that there is a strong mechanical bond between the PPSF part and PEEK film, adhesive-backed materials are suggested. Testing has shown that Victrex P500S, an APTIV PEEK film backed with silicone adhesive, works well for this application.
Heat the sheet to 284-320 °F (140-160 °C) and draw it onto the PPSF part as soon as it reaches its forming point. Typically, this cycle should be completed in less than 20 seconds. Extended cycle times will cause the PEEK film to crystallize, which causes it to become stiff and opaque. To avoid crystallization, observe the PEEK sheet. As heat is applied, it will relax and then become taut. Once the PEEK sheet draws tight, quickly apply the vacuum and hold it until the PEEK film cools. Following the vacuum forming operation, trim the PEEK sheet to the size of the PPSF part. The PPSF/PEEK part is now ready to be put into service.
Time and cost comparison of hand sanding and PEEK Thermoforming FDM mold model of a rear tire blower nozzle.
| Process | Lead Time | Labor Cost | Material Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hand Sanding | 4 hours | $160 | $5 |
| PEEK Film | 1 hour | $10 | $6 |
| SAVINGS | 3 hours (75%) | $149 (90%) |
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