The Best POM 3D Printing Settings: Achieving Optimal Results
Introduction:
POM (Polyoxymethylene), also known as Delrin or Acetal, is a high-performance thermoplastic material that offers excellent mechanical properties, low friction, and dimensional stability. While POM is a fantastic choice for various applications, achieving optimal results with POM 3D printing requires careful consideration of specific printing parameters. In this blog post, we will explore the best POM 3D printing settings to help you achieve superior print quality and fully unlock the potential of this remarkable material.
1. Bed Temperature:
Maintaining the proper bed temperature is crucial when printing with POM. POM requires a heated build plate to ensure good adhesion and minimize warping. Set your bed temperature between 100-120°C to achieve optimal results. Using a build surface like Kapton tape or a PVA-based adhesive can further improve bed adhesion with POM.When using PVA glue for printing, it is recommended to apply at least 2-3 layers on the print bed. If you have a PEI print surface or a carbon fiber print bed, it will effectively improve the issue of warping in printed parts.
2. Using large brim
During the crystallization process of POM, strong internal stresses can occur, resulting in warping of the printed parts. To avoid this situation, it is recommended to use a brim of at least 10mm. If possible, setting the brim to a double layer would be even better.
3. Nozzle Temperature:
POM has a higher melting point compared to standard filaments. Set your nozzle temperature between 240-250°C to ensure proper melting and flow of the material. It’s important to note that different 3D printers may have slight variations in temperature requirements, so it’s advisable to refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations and conduct calibration tests if needed. IN3DTEC recommends using brass as the nozzle material because it has excellent heat conductivity. However, due to the tendency of brass to wear out over time, it is advisable to replace the nozzle periodically.
4. Enclosed Print Chamber:
Printing POM in an enclosed print chamber is highly recommended. POM is sensitive to temperature fluctuations, especially during cooling. An enclosed print chamber helps maintain a consistent ambient temperature, reducing the chances of warping and improving print quality. If your printer doesn’t have a built-in enclosure, consider using a DIY enclosure or enclosing the printer within a controlled environment.
5. Print Speed and Layer Height:
When printing with POM, it’s generally recommended to use slower print speeds compared to other filaments. Slower speeds allow better control over the material flow and help achieve accurate and consistent prints. Start with a print speed of around 30-50mm/s and adjust as needed based on the specific characteristics of your printer. Similarly, using a smaller layer height, such as 0.1-0.2mm, can help achieve finer details and smoother surfaces.
6. Cooling and Ventilation:
Unlike some other filaments, POM doesn’t require active cooling during the printing process. In fact, rapid cooling can cause warping or poor layer adhesion. Therefore, it’s advisable to disable or minimize cooling fan usage when printing with POM. However, proper ventilation in the printing area is essential due to the fumes released by POM. Ensure adequate airflow or consider using a dedicated air filtration system for a safe and healthy printing environment.
7. Post-Processing and Bed Removal:
After completing the print, allow the POM part to cool naturally inside the enclosed print chamber. This gradual cooling helps reduce the risk of warping. Once cooled, remove the print from the bed with care. POM has low adhesion to most surfaces, so it should be relatively easy to remove. However, using a flexible build plate or applying a release agent like 3D printing adhesive sprays can facilitate bed removal.
One final, crucial reminder: Prior to printing, it is highly recommended by IN3DTEC to dry the POM material at 70 degrees Celsius for 4 hours. This pre-drying process helps eliminate any moisture that may be present and prevents the material from absorbing additional moisture during printing. Furthermore, after the completion of the print, it is important to avoid rapid cooling of the sample, as it can lead to size shrinkage. Allowing the printed sample to cool gradually within the enclosed print chamber or controlled environment is advisable to maintain dimensional stability.
Conclusion:
Printing with POM opens up a world of possibilities for high-performance applications. By optimizing bed and nozzle temperatures, using an enclosed print chamber, adjusting print speeds and layer heights, and considering cooling and ventilation requirements, you can achieve exceptional results with POM 3D printing. Remember to refer to your printer’s specifications and conduct test prints to fine-tune the settings for your specific setup. With the right settings and a bit of experimentation, you can unleash the full potential of POM and create robust, precise, and dimensionally stable parts for a wide range of applications.
