Stratasys claims that Antero 800NA outperforms other high-performance thermoplastics with its superior chemical resistance and ultra-low outgassing. In addition, the material possesses high temperature resistance and wear properties as well as being able to produce lighter-weight parts, reduced inventories, and improved profitability.
Its superior chemical resistance means it can be used for components exposed to hydrocarbons, such as fuels and lubricants, as well as some acids. Additionally, its low outgassing allows it to be used in confined spaces and sensitive environments, such as satellites, where materials may not outgas under vacuum. Antero 800NA’s high operating temperature is designed to allow it to be used for applications in engine compartments.
With traditional processes, manufacturers buy bulk PEKK (available only in limited shapes and sizes) and machine it to a net shape, which wastes a considerable amount of expensive material and has a longer lead time. With an additive process, the workflow is faster, yielding lighter-weight parts with optimised topology and significantly reduced waste.
Elena Terraz, business manager of manufacturing tooling at Stratasys EMEA said: “Parts made with Antero 800NA can be made using the Fortus 450mc Production 3D Printer, but later this year larger parts, up to almost a metre in length, will be able to be made on the Fortus 900mc.”
Antero 800NA is the first commercial product in a planned new family of PEKK-based materials. The material will be offered with an initial layer thickness of 0.25mm and additional layer-thickness options planned for future release.