3D FFF-Type Printer Upgrade for the Use of Viscous-Filled Polymeric Materials

Recently, there has been a significant expansion of additive technologies, especially Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF). This article aims to upgrade a commercial 3D printer to develop viscous polymeric materials, as this option is not currently available. The FFF method is primarily used with thermoplastics and elastomers in filament form. However, materials derived from various water-soluble acrylates offer significant potential, with advantages including environmental friendliness and desirable mechanical and visual properties. The possibility of using a viscous polymer as a carrier for metal material prior to sintering is also a significant factor. The aim of the text is to present the preparation of a 3D printer suitable for printing the above materials. The main requirement was to modify the selected printer with minimal interference with HW and SW. We mainly focused on adjusting the print head. A new prototype for the printing of viscous polymeric materials was visualized. Furthermore, the individual components were designed and printed; a functional system capable of processing these materials was assembled.