Polyamide 12, abbreviated as PA12, is a versatile material in additive manufacturing. This plastic is known for its high dimensional stability, toughness, and remarkable flexibility. Even very thin wall thicknesses below 0.5 mm can be produced reliably and effectively using the laser sintering process. This makes it well-suited for printing applications like film hinges, snap-fit components, and click mechanisms. PA12 boasts exceptional durability and is skin-friendly, biocompatible, food-safe, FDA compliant, and approved for automotive use. As a result, it finds extensive use in the food and pharmaceutical industries, medical technology, and the automotive sector.

Mass Production

PA12 is frequently utilized in small and medium-scale production due to significant cost savings achievable through the powder bed manufacturing method. Additionally, PA12 excels in prototype and design model applications, thanks to its precision and stability.

Industrial Quality

Components made from PA12 are fabricated using the laser sintering process. Parts produced with laser sintering machines exhibit the same level of quality as injection-molded or milled plastic components. PA12 parts can withstand continuous stress over extended periods, making them a preferred choice in various industrial applications.

Cost-effective Design Freedom

By utilizing powder bed printing without the need for support material, PA12 offers substantial design freedom. This allows for the cost-effective production of complex components without post-processing. Entire assemblies, complete with integrated functions and movement, can be directly manufactured in a single print run. The complexity of the component does not impact the cost significantly, meaning a basic block costs nearly the same as a functional motor model. Entire assemblies with integrated features and moving parts can be produced in a single printing process.

Post-processing

PA12 components are of end-user quality and can be refined and further processed in various ways. Mechanical processes such as threading and milling are equally feasible.

Coloration

Additionally, components can be dyed through immersion, making them waterproof.

Applications of PA12 3D Printing

PA12 offers a wide range of applications due to its versatility and exceptional properties. It is well-suited for creating visual models, exhibition prototypes, architectural models, and manufacturing highly complex geometries, including internal structures, conduits, and undercuts. PA12's outstanding abrasion and fracture resistance make it a preferred choice for tools, grippers, and guiding components.

• Mechanical Components and Machine Parts: PA12 is ideal for producing durable mechanical parts and components used in machinery.
• Highly Complex Assemblies: Its ability to handle intricate designs makes it suitable for manufacturing complex assemblies.
• End-User Components: PA12 is used in creating end-user products that require robustness and precision.
• Structural Components and Snap-Fit Applications: It is employed in structural parts and snap-fit applications where strength and reliability are crucial.
• Consumer Goods: PA12 finds application in various consumer products.
• Food Industry: Thanks to its food-safe properties, PA12 is used in the food industry for various applications.
• Automotive Industry: PA12 components can be found in the automotive sector, especially in areas demanding resilience.
• Medical Technology: Its biocompatibility makes it suitable for medical devices and equipment.

• Biocompatible according to EN ISO 10993-1 USP/level VI/121 °C.
• Approved for food contact according to EU Plastics Directive 2002/72/EC (Exception: Highly alcoholic foods).