3D Printing of Complex ESD-PLA Parts with PETG Support Material
Our client, a prominent player in the electronics industry, faced a challenge in producing complex components for their production lines. These parts, including grippers, nests, and adapters, often have detailed geometries that traditional machining couldn’t achieve. Seeking a more efficient and precise manufacturing solution, they turned to additive manufacturing—specifically 3D printing—as the perfect fit for their needs.
However, one key obstacle was the requirement to print some parts off the build plate, which meant they needed support material that wouldn’t compromise the surface quality. In addition, it also had to meet crucial electrostatic discharge (ESD) standards to ensure safe and reliable operation in its electronics applications.
The solution to the challenge:
We used PETG as the support material and ESD-PLA as the main parts to address this. Why does this combination work so well?
- Easy separation of support material: PLA and PETG materials do not bond excessively, making the support easy to remove after printing, which is essential for maintaining the quality of the final part.
- ESD Protection: ESD-PLA ensures the necessary electrostatic discharge protection, which is critical for the electronics industry, while PETG offers strong and reliable support throughout the printing process.
Results:
We successfully achieved the goal. The 3D-printed parts fully complied with ESD standards, and their surfaces were smooth and accurate. The client was delighted, not only because we solved technical challenges but also because we significantly improved manufacturing efficiency.
Conclusion:
By combining PETG for the support material and ESD-PLA for the main parts, we created a practical solution that improved production efficiency and electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. The printed components met all industry standards, ensuring our client’s satisfaction. This approach solved the technical challenges and delivered a smooth, efficient manufacturing process that met top-quality requirements.
