Stratasys has officially introduced ToughONE, a specialized photopolymer resin designed to push the boundaries of what is possible with PolyJet technology. This material addresses a significant challenge in the additive manufacturing space: the need for parts that possess both the extreme detail of inkjet printing and the mechanical resilience of traditional thermoplastics. It allows engineers to produce components that can withstand the rigors of functional testing without the fragility often associated with high-resolution resins.
Mechanical Performance and Structural Integrity
The primary advantage of ToughONE lies in its unique balanced properties. It offers a level of impact resistance and elongation at break that closely mimics ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene). This makes it an ideal candidate for manufacturing snap-fit assemblies, living hinges, and other components that require a degree of flexibility coupled with structural strength. In the context of quality control, these parts demonstrate remarkable dimensional stability, ensuring that verification remains consistent even under varied environmental conditions.
Optimizing Production with PolyJet J-Series
ToughONE is specifically optimized for use on the Stratasys J850 and J750 series printers. By leveraging the multi-material capabilities of these systems, manufacturers can incorporate ToughONE as a rigid core while surrounding it with other materials, such as Agilus30 for soft-touch surfaces or VeroUltraClear for transparent sections. This versatility significantly reduces the time required for post-processing and assembly, as complex multi-component prototypes can be produced in a single build.
- High Impact Resistance: Engineered to absorb energy without fracturing, suitable for dropped components or vibration-heavy environments.
- Precise Geometry: Retains the sub-micron accuracy of PolyJet technology, allowing for tight tolerances in mechanical interfaces.
- Durability for Tooling: Capable of serving as a durable material for short-run injection molds or manufacturing jigs and fixtures.
- Surface Finish: Maintains the signature smooth surface finish of PolyJet, reducing the need for manual sanding or coating.
As the industry moves closer to full integration of additive manufacturing into the production floor, materials like ToughONE are essential. They provide the necessary link between design intent and physical performance, allowing teams to validate their products with a high degree of confidence before committing to expensive tooling or mass production cycles.