Influence of 3D Printing on Safety-Critical Polymer Performance Properties

What do we know about 3D-printed material properties?

There is a lack of knowledge on the influence of 3D printing on safety-critical performance properties such as ignition, flammability, and electrical response associated with UL safety standards. UL investigated the influence of the four-material extrusion user-controllable printer parameters and specimen build variations expected to most influence printed part performance. Our team of plastic experts compiled their findings in this research study.

Results of the investigation provide the preliminary knowledge necessary to develop guidelines for certifying polymer materials intended for 3D printing and guidance for drafting requirements. For the first time, we are able to address the gap in performance between 3D printed parts and conventional injection molded and extruded parts.

Download our research paper:

• For full details on our independent research on the impact of 3D printing versus material extrusion on printed polymer material properties 
• To better understand how part performance differs depending on the method of production (3D printed versus injection molded)