United States. Solvay announced a cooperation agreement with Israeli 3D printer manufacturer Stratasys to develop new high-performance (AM) additive manufacturing filaments for exclusive use in Stratasys F900 FDM 3D printers.
Both companies will work on the development of a high-performance AM filament based on Solvay's polyphenylsulfone polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), which will meet the stringent requirements of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) for use in aerospace applications.
"Stratasys customers have ordered more varied, high-performance materials, while many of Solvay's customers want our high-performance polymers enabled for use in Stratasys industrial 3D printing systems. The partnership between our two companies now allows us to meet both requests," explains Christophe Schramm, Additive Manufacturing business manager for Solvay's global specialty polymers business unit.
The new AM filament will be marketed under the name Radel PPSU, starting in 2020. Other high-performance products that meet the specific needs of the industry in other AM end-use markets will subsequently be offered.
"Solvay is a trusted leader in diverse materials proven for the demanding aerospace, automotive and medical industries. We are proud to have this new collaboration agreement that will give customers the ability to further expand 3D printing in production applications," said Rich Garrity, president of Stratasys Americas.
"This partnership with Stratasys is an important step in Solvay's strategy to build a strong and diverse AM ecosystem."
