Airtech’s Dahltram® Resins: A Revolution in Large-Scale 3D Printing

In a world where innovation continuously pushes the boundaries of what is possible, large-scale 3D printing is emerging as a cutting-edge technology for demanding industries. Airtech Advanced Materials Group, with nearly 50 years of extrusion experience, significantly contributes to this evolution with its Dahltram® resin line. Specifically designed for advanced composite tooling, these thermoplastic resins stand out for their performance, durability, and adaptability to various industrial applications.

Dahltram® Resins: Innovative Solutions for 3D Printing

Airtech Dahltram® C-250GF and C-250CF

Dahltram® C-250GF and C-250CF resins are reinforced with glass and carbon fibers, respectively, providing superior mechanical and thermal properties. They are designed to meet the stringent requirements of composite tooling, particularly in the aerospace and automotive sectors.

Technical Characteristics:

• Fiber reinforcement (glass for C-250GF, carbon for C-250CF)
• Low coefficient of thermal expansion
• High-temperature resistance

Key Benefits:

• Exceptional dimensional stability, minimizing the risk of warping.
• Enhanced durability for applications requiring high-temperature performance.
• Compatibility with pellet-based 3D printing systems, facilitating integration into existing production processes.

Airtech Dahltram® U-350CF

For applications requiring even higher thermal resistance, Dahltram® U-350CF resin is reinforced with carbon fibers, ensuring optimal performance even in extreme environments.

Technical Characteristics:

• Carbon fiber reinforcement
• Very high service temperature

Key Benefits:

• Ideal for applications demanding exceptional thermal resistance.
• Enhanced mechanical properties, offering increased strength and robustness.

Airtech Dahlpram® 009

The specialized purge resin Dahlpram® 009 is designed to facilitate the cleaning of extrusion systems and improve the efficiency of the 3D printing process.

Technical Characteristics:

• Specially formulated for cleaning and purging 3D printers

Key Benefits:

• Simplifies the maintenance of large-scale 3D printers.
• Reduces downtime between material changes, thus optimizing productivity.

Industrial Applications and Competitive Advantages

Dahltram® resins are perfectly suited for industries requiring enhanced precision and robustness, such as:

• Aerospace: Used for the production of high-precision composite tooling essential for manufacturing aircraft parts.
• Automotive: Employed in the production of molds and parts for racing vehicles, as demonstrated by the successful collaboration with Brumos Racing for the Porsche GT2 RS Clubsport.
• Wind Energy: Used in the design of molds for wind turbine blades, where strength and durability are paramount.
• General Industry: Various applications in large-scale tooling, showcasing the versatility of Dahltram® resins.

Performance and Reliability: A Commitment to Excellence

Rigorous testing of Dahltram® resins has proven their ability to withstand over 500 autoclave cycles, ensuring unmatched longevity and performance. Their low coefficient of thermal expansion ensures dimensional stability, preventing warping even under extreme temperature conditions. These characteristics make them the top choice for advanced composite tooling applications.

Comparison with Competing Resins

Airtech’s Dahltram® resins stand out from competitors due to their exceptional reliability and technical specifications tailored to the needs of the modern industry:

• High thermal resistance: Formulations like Dahltram® U-350CF are designed for applications requiring extreme thermal performance.
• Dimensional stability: Versions like Dahltram® C-250GF offer superior dimensional consistency, essential for accurate and faithful prints.

Cost and Profitability: A Long-Term Economic Solution

While the initial investment in Dahltram® resins may be higher than some alternatives on the market, their long-term profitability is undeniable. Thanks to their exceptional durability, they reduce tooling replacement and maintenance costs. Additionally, their compatibility with pellet-based 3D printing systems and their increased efficiency in the manufacturing process contribute to substantial savings in labor and materials.

Conclusion

Airtech’s Dahltram® resins are a leading solution for large-scale 3D printing, offering a unique combination of performance, durability, and versatility. Whether for applications in aerospace, automotive, wind energy, or general industry, these resins stand out for their ability to meet the most stringent demands of modern industrial environments. With Dahltram® resins, Airtech reinforces its role as a leader in material innovation for 3D printing, enabling companies to push the boundaries of additive manufacturing.