Flame-retardant material for rapid manufacturing

Paul Boughton

3D Systems Corporation is introducing Duraform FR 100 plastic, a new flame-retardant sintering material that meets the requirements of a broad range of aircraft and consumer-product applications. Customers can purchase parts made from this new material through 3D Systems' Pro Parts Marketplace starting in August of this year.

Unlike other available flame-retardant sintering materials, 3D Systems says that Duraform FR 100 plastic passes the flame, smoke and toxicity tests for aircraft applications and has a UL 94 V-0 rating, which is required for many consumer product applications. In addition, this new plastic is non-halogenated and antimony free, and complies with many government directives for human health and safety. Anticipated applications for Duraform FR 100 plastic include direct manufacturing of aircraft parts - including interior parts such as cockpit and cabin components - and direct manufacturing of parts for consumer products - including lighting, electronics and appliances.

Kevin McAlea, vice president and general manager of 3D Systems, comments: "We are very pleased to be the first additive manufacturing company to commercially offer V-0 certified, flame-retardant sintering material. This revolutionary new Duraform FR 100 plastic represents a true invention in materials' development for rapid manufacturing, meeting required certification for very demanding aerospace and consumer goods applications."

A video of the flame retardancy test is available via Youtube (search for Duraform FR100).

For more information, visit www.3dsystems.com

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