Joseph Crabtree

Unlocking Performance and Transition to Production through Post-processing of 3D Printed Parts

Abstract

Thermoplastic 3D printed parts via powder bed fusion (PBF) have surface imperfections such as internal voids, residue powder, or partially fused powder among the most common. The performance enhancements of Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) Nylon 12 and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) Nylon 11 printed parts, post processed via Boundary Layer Automated Smoothing Technology (BLAST™ ) has been evaluated. BLAST is a physiochemical process that smooths a variety of thermoplastic polymers. Surface finishes can achieve an injection molding finish while allowing for control of surface roughness, textures and gloss. Consequently, the effect on mechanical properties of additive manufactured parts is controlled. Post processing through BLAST unlocks the mechanical property potential of 3D printed parts. This work shows the improvement in elongation at break after post-processing Nylon 12 and Nylon 11 parts.

About the Speaker

Joseph Crabtree is the Founder and CEO of Additive Manufacturing Technologies. Prior to forming AMT in 2015 Joseph spent 10 years in the Aerospace, Defense, and Automotive manufacturing industries. A Material Scientist by trade, Joseph has worked across the globe in several diverse roles including Engineering, Operations and Sales. AMT develops fully automated safe and sustainable post processing solutions to enable the industrial production of additively manufactured parts at scale. Founded in 2017, AMT is headquartered in the UK with a manufacturing facility in Hungary, and a North American HQ being opened in Austin, Texas in Q4 2019. The revenue generating company operates internationally with clients and partners across the US, Europe and Asia.