What's Happening?
Stratasys Ltd. has introduced a new flame-retardant composite material, FDM® PA6/66-GF30-FR, aimed at rail and transportation manufacturers. This material is designed to produce certified end-use parts and critical spare parts, expanding Stratasys' portfolio
of industrial-grade, rail-ready FDM thermoplastics. The material is specifically engineered for use on Fortus® 450mc and F900® systems, offering reliable printability, excellent surface finish, and repeatable part quality. It meets EN 45545-2 HL2 (R22/R23) and FMVSS 302 fire safety requirements, making it suitable for load-bearing, functional rail applications. The material's flame-retardant PA 6/66 base polymer is reinforced with 30% glass fiber, providing stronger and stiffer performance than alternatives like PC-FR. This development is part of Stratasys' strategic focus on mobility, transportation, automotive, and industrial applications.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of FDM® PA6/66-GF30-FR by Stratasys is significant for the rail and transportation industries, as it supports the production of on-demand spare parts, reducing lead times and inventory costs. This is particularly beneficial for long-life assets and maintenance operations. The material's compliance with fire safety standards and its enhanced performance characteristics make it a valuable addition to the additive manufacturing landscape. By enabling the production of complex, application-specific parts on demand, Stratasys is facilitating more efficient maintenance and lifecycle management across rail systems. This advancement underscores the growing role of additive manufacturing in industrial applications, offering flexibility and confidence to manufacturers.
What's Next?
Stratasys' new material is generally available for Fortus® 450mc and F900® systems, and the company is likely to continue expanding its portfolio of certified materials to meet the evolving needs of the transportation and mobility sectors. As rail and transportation manufacturers increasingly adopt additive manufacturing, Stratasys may see increased demand for its solutions, potentially leading to further innovations and collaborations with industry leaders. The company's focus on strategic sectors suggests ongoing efforts to enhance its offerings and maintain a competitive edge in the additive manufacturing market.
