I have a prototype that I got from a 3d printer. After researching molding and blow molding options I have determined that 3d printing is the only way to make this piece. However, I was told that a translucent 3d piece will not last very long if exposed to any elements (temperature, light etc.) I have had the item sitting on my desk for a year now and it is just fine, so I am wondering what the options are for creating an item that will last a lifetime. I am looking to sell these and I don’t want them to fall apart.
Caveat - I am completely new and uneducated on 3d printing so I am looking for answers to help me decide on manufacturing 100-1000 of these printed to start.
Hi @ATXHuskerGirl, thanks for reaching out! Are you able to share more details about the prototype (i.e. dimensions, end use)? Anything that might help Hubs get an idea of what this job would entail.
Also, from what material is the current piece made of, do you know?
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Filemon
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@Alex3DHubs might be able to help you out on this one
I don’t know what the current material is, but it is a round, hollow bulb 3" in diameter similar to a christmas ornament. It was just made as a prototype so it could be made of whatever translucent material is available that will last. Ultimately I would like to put a small light in it, so I don’t know if that changes the material options. Any information or guidance would be greatly appreciated
Heya,
What material did you have this originally printed with? FDM prints can last a very long time because they are a standard thermoplastic in most instances. SLA prints are a photopolymer resin and have a tendency to degrade overtime because of UV exposure (that’s what cures the resin to form a solid object).
Alex
Thank you for your response @Alex3DHubs. Unfortunately I don’t know what the original prototype was made of. I am open to any options that allow for a long lasting, translucent material, but I was told there weren’t any viable options at the time. Are FDM prints going to last a long time even if they are exposed to light or temperature and do those come in a translucent color that light could shine through? Are these types of prints durable? I apologize for the questions, I have just had a difficult time researching these things!
No worries! If you are willing, can you upload a picture of the prototype? SLA printers can handle a bit more complexity than FDM, so if I get a picture I can probably tell what method was used to produce it. There are definitely transparent FDM materials out there, although like the SLA materials it wont be 100% transparent. I am not completely up to date on SLA materials, but I know the lifetime of those prints has increased with improvements on companies resin formulas.
Is there a way I can contact you directly? I come from a legal background and since I am intending to sell these items I worry about NDA’s. I have all of the files and pictures. I absolutely appreciate all of your help!!
Sure, my email is alex@3dhubs.com
Hey Alex,
Were you able to look at those files I sent over? I would love to know if this is possible and if so with what material!! Thank you so much.
