Zetamix Zetadebind : Debiding unit

File preparation

3D printing

When preparing the file for printing, almost the same steps as with FDM 3D printing are followed, with particular attention paid to taking shrinkage into account in order to obtain an accurate end result that complies with the specifications.

Nanoé filaments are compatible with most FDM machines. To obtain a better result, machines equipped with a “direct drive” system are to be preferred (for example the Pro3 series from Raise3D). So that the ceramic powder can be easily shaped, it is mixed with a binder. The part coming out of the 3D printer is not finished but it is "raw". For it to have the same properties as industrially made parts, it must be debinded and sintered.

Debinding

Sintering

Debinding is the step that consists of removing the binder, an essential material for shaping the part. The 3D printed parts are debinded in an acetone bath. At the end of this stage, the mass of the object has decreased. Although the system is open, Nanoe provides a heated debinding station if you don't already have one.

Sintering is the step that consists of "firing" a part at very high temperatures. By sintering the part, it densifies and acquires the final mechanical properties. After this step, the parts have a density of up to 99% for ceramics and 95% for metal. It should be noted that the object suffers a shrinkage of 15 to 20%. Nanoe provides a tube furnace allowing both ceramic parts to be sintered and metal parts which must be sintered under neutral gas.

After the piece comes out of the kiln, it can be polished by hand or by tumbling for a shinier appearance. Metal parts can be sandblasted.