With the increasing use of 3D printing technology in product design, researchers and developers are constantly exploring new materials that can be used for 3D printing. Recently, the United States 3D printing service provider Proto Labs announced that they have developed a 3D printing optical grade liquid silicone rubber (LSR). This optical grade LSR is transparent and very flexible, and can even replace glass in many optical applications.
Proto Labs, a subsidiary of Protomold, was established in 2012 by Larry Lukis to provide additive manufacturing and rapid prototyping services. Proto Labs is a NYSE-listed company. In the first half of 2014, it purchased FineLine Prototyping, a 3D printing service company, for US$38 million.
“For example, in optical applications, if you have a lens to seal, traditionally it takes two parts to complete. With the advent of optical grade LSR, you can combine two parts into one, thus reducing the cost and overall inventory. †said Jeff Schipper, LSR product manager at Proto Labs.
He added that the engineering-grade thermoset properties of this material allow engineers to use it to develop products and components for the lighting industry. It is understood that this optical LSR material will not be transformed or lose transparency due to time or exposure to high temperatures or ultraviolet light. Schipper added that this material is also lighter than glass and most other plastics. It is also resistant to scratches and cracks.
The LSR has a low viscosity, which makes it very easy to flow within the mold, can pass through thin areas and fill small voids. It can form thinner walls than other resin materials. The material does not exhibit significant shrinkage or internal stress when cooled, and its dimensional stability can be used to make high-precision lenses.
Schipper said that LSR materials can be used in polishing molds without the need for secondary polishing, so that some molds can achieve the optical surface geometry and finish.
Proto Labs said that the transparency of 3D objects produced with LSR materials is second only to glass, they can withstand the heat generated by high-output LEDs, while maintaining sufficient flexibility to meet outdoor and automotive applications.
(Editor)