As concerns about climate change continue to grow, companies worldwide are actively seeking ways to reduce their environmental impact. The 3D printing industry, which relies heavily on energy and plastics, is no exception. Let’s explore how recycled filament can play a crucial role in making 3D printing more eco-friendly.
Recycling plastics and transforming them into FFF/FDM (fused filament fabrication/fused deposition modeling) filament offers several benefits, including:
Recycled filaments are available on the market from single sources (with complete traceability) and multiple sources for general use. Additionally, companies can implement closed-loop recycling processes internally, segregating, sorting, and re-manufacturing materials within their operations.
Several types of thermoplastics are recyclable to varying degrees. These include ABS, PETG, Nylon, and TPE. When considering applications for recycled filament, it’s crucial to evaluate the new material properties that often result from recycling thermoplastics.
Whether you opt for a pre-made recycled filament or develop one in-house from internal waste, tuning these materials is essential for successful 3D printing. Previously, this capability was unavailable on Stratasys printers.
However, with the introduction of OpenAM material tuning software for the Fortus 450mc and the F900 (available late June 2024), users can now print third-party filaments, including recycled materials, from companies like Futura, BASF, Kimya, and more. By expanding filament compatibility, Stratasys empowers users to choose sustainable materials while maintaining high-quality prints.
After a few iterations, modifying the temperature and flow rate, we achieved acceptable part quality as shown below.
As the 3D printing industry continues to evolve, it's clear that sustainability must be at the forefront of innovation. Recycled filaments offer a promising solution for reducing waste, lowering costs, and minimizing the environmental impact. By embracing these eco-friendly materials, companies can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability while still achieving high-quality prints.
Stratasys' OpenAM material tuning software is a game-changer, empowering users to take advantage of a wide range of recycled filaments on their Fortus 450mc and F900 printers. With the ability to fine-tune print settings for optimal results, OpenAM opens up new possibilities for sustainable 3D printing.
But the journey towards sustainability doesn't stop here. As an industry, we must continue exploring and developing innovative solutions that prioritize performance and environmental responsibility. By working together and sharing knowledge, we can create a more sustainable future for 3D printing.
Contact your Stratasys reseller today to learn more about integrating recycled filaments into your FDM printing process with OpenAM.
Download our whitepaper, "From Waste to Resource: Transforming FDM Printing with Recycled Materials via OpenAM," for expert insights and practical advice on switching to eco-friendly materials.
