DSM Somos is pleased to announce the commercial availability of its newest
multi-purpose stereolithography (SL) resin, Somos 9420 EP-White. Combining
the mechanical performance of polypropylene with an aesthetic similar to white
injection molded materials, EP-White has received positive reviews from the
Rapid Prototyping (RP) industry since its introduction in the fall of 2005.
“Somos 9420 builds on the standard-setting performance of Somos 9120 for
creating functional prototypes” says DSM Somos Marketing Manager Eva
Montgomery. “The feedback we’ve received back from our beta test
sites and their customers—particularly regarding parts made for the
automotive sector—has been quite remarkable.” Early market acceptance of
Somos 9420 EP-White will allow Somos to begin offering 9420 through all of its
distribution channels as of April 30, 2006.
Exceptional Performance, Aesthetics
“This material is strong,
resilient and less likely to snap than other SL resins when performing fit and
function testing,” says Al Dewitt, President of RP service bureau Rapid
Solutions. “In addition, customers really like the way the 9420 parts show
due to their bright white color and excellent side wall quality.”
Due to the excellent finishing quality and accuracy of 9420 part builds,
Michigan-based service bureau Select Manufacturing has also been using the
resin to build patterns for silicone molding.
Broad Application Range
EP-White’s flexibility makes it useful
for a broad range of applications including snap fit parts, living hinges, and
patterns. Jennifer Schaffner, Prototype Manager of GTC Specialties states,
“Somos 9420 EP-White is the best SL material I have seen for living hinges.
Living hinges made from 9420 were able to be flexed back and forth multiple
times without breaking—something most SL resins can not stand up to.“
Processing Ease & Reliability
EP-White is proving to be a
robust resin choice—a critical factor for cost effective part builds. Ross
Gates, President of Select Manufacturing reports 100% completion of all builds
in the two plus months that he has been running Somos 9420 EP White. This is
especially significant considering Gates averages 15 builds per week.
“We’re confident that Somos 9420 is going to be a very popular resin for
functional prototyping in a variety of market sectors,” says Eva Montgomery.
