Sydney-based Chemson Pacific has announced the launch of 3D Vinyl PVC, a groundbreaking invention 100% conceived, developed and tested in Australia. It is believed to be the first of its kind in the world.
By pioneering a PVC formulation with true “thermoplastic” 3D printing properties, specifically designed for use as a 3D printing filament feedstock, the Chemson invention broadens the options available for users of 3D printing: from cottage-industry makers and hobbyists, to advanced manufacturing.
3D Vinyl’s unique qualities remove the constraints formerly imposed on the majority of accessible 3D printing platforms. The product will enable users of these systems to move beyond rapid prototyping and develop end-use parts and products in a variety of low-run production deployments.
3D Vinyl is weatherproof, UV and solvent resistant, and is Group-1 fire retardant, capable of AS3837 compliance. It boasts low embodied energy content compared to incumbent polymer-based filaments, with a sustainable footprint requiring 50% fewer fossil fuel inputs, using natural gas rather than being derived from crude oil. It features improved rigidity, eliminating bottom layer warping and poor bed adhesion, and is excellent for generating support structures, which are easily removed. Benefits of 3D Vinyl for industrial 3D printing include low melt viscosity, excellent flow properties, heat stability, excellent layer adhesion and enhanced durability.
Regional alliances with PVC industry leader Welvic, CSIRO and tertiary bodies will bring 3DVinyl to market for Australia, New Zealand and ASEAN. A strategic partnership with US-based Functionalize will co-develop conductive, electrostatic dissipative and other specialised formulations of 3D Vinyl, and expand its market reach in North America, Europe and beyond.
“3D Vinyl is a definitive new 3D printing material that will bring a combination of physical properties not available with the current incumbent polymeric materials,” said Dennis Planner of Chemson Pacific. “3D Printing is currently one of the fastest growing, value-adding industries internationally and will be an important source of mentally-stimulating career paths and new business growth for the future, which I’m absolutely proud to be a part of. 3D Vinyl brings a new era for the PVC Industry and Advanced Manufacturing, here in Australia and worldwide.”