Juggerbot 3D Offers PVC for Industrial 3D Printing

JuggerBot 3D has released the Tradesman Series P3-44 ASTRA, a large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM) system designed to address the challenges of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) processing. This project has been developed in partnership with IPEX Technologies Inc., a company in thermoplastic piping systems for industrial printing of PVC-based components and end-use parts.

PVC is recognized for its chemical resistance, flame retardancy, and mechanical durability, according to Juggerbot 3D. To date, though,, its use in additive manufacturing has been limited by the need for fume management and material handling. JuggerBot 3D’s P3-44 ASTRA offers advanced process controls and safety systems, designed for operator safety, equipment longevity, and the environment during printing operations.

The ASTRA builds on JuggerBot 3D’s expertise in material testing and process control to handle tchallenges of PVC and maximize process controls within the base model of the Tradesman Series P3-44, according to Juggerbot 3D. The system is engineered to handle challenges of PVC with corrosion-resistant components and targeted fume extraction at the point of print deposition while maintaining the structural integrity of the base Tradesman Series P3-44 unit. 

Advanced Process Controls

The P3-44 system incorporates advanced technologies. Proper safety procedures required for observation during operation of the unit include:

• Prevention: Corrosion-resistant components extend the printer’s lifespan while ensuring PVC processing control. ASTRA has been outfitted with hardware to mitigate these issues and key control components to maintain extrusion temperatures.
• Containment:  Processing PVC requires proper containment for workplace safety. Additional sealing areas across the enclosed base P3-44 ensure fumes generated during printing stay within controlled zones.
• Extraction: Equipped with a dual-stage fume extraction system, ASTRA captures fumes emitted throughout the printing process.
• Protection: Improper processing of materials can produce issues in production. Access to the chamber is prohibited to prevent premature access,

With P3-44 ASTRA, key uses include body molds, ducting and pipe systems, and medical housings and enclosures.

“This project represents an important step forward in additive manufacturing for industrial materials,” says Brian Zellers, product development manager at JuggerBot 3D. “We take pride in proclaiming that we can process a wide array of performance thermoplastics, including PVC. By advancing preexistent process controls in our base P3-44, we’ve developed a system that offers safety and performance, enabling operators to leverage PVC’s material benefits through reliable 3D printing technology.”

For more information on the P3-44 ASTRA, visit http://www.JuggerBot3D.com/3d-printing-with-PVC.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.