In the fast-paced world of additive manufacturing, the key to innovation lies in material advancements that redefine what’s possible. Stratasys continues to push the envelope with the introduction of SAF Polypropylene (PP) for their H350 3D printer, powered by Selective Absorption Fusion (SAF) technology. This isn’t just a new material—it’s a game-changer that opens the door to exciting possibilities across industries, from automotive to consumer goods.
Why Polypropylene Matters
Polypropylene is a workhorse material, renowned for its chemical resistance, low density, and inherent flexibility. It’s a staple in everything from automotive parts to food containers, prized for its versatility and durability. However, leveraging PP in additive manufacturing—especially for industrial-grade applications—has long been a challenge.
With the H350’s SAF technology, Stratasys has cracked the code, enabling precise, consistent PP printing. The result? Durable, functional parts ready to meet the demands of real-world applications. To see this material in action, don’t miss our two featured videos (below): an extreme chainsaw test showcasing SAF PP’s unmatched strength and versatility, and a pressure test demonstrating the impressive tightness and durability of SAF PP parts.
The Advantage of SAF Polypropylene Technology
SAF technology, the driving force behind the H350, is designed for production-level throughput with pinpoint accuracy. When paired with PP, the results are transformative:
- Chemical Resistance: PP’s ability to withstand harsh chemicals makes it a go-to for parts that need to endure exposure to acids, bases, and solvents—a must for the automotive and chemical industries.
- Low Density: PP’s lightweight nature doesn’t compromise strength or durability, making it ideal for applications where weight reduction is key, such as in aerospace.
- Flexibility and Durability: Unlike many 3D printing materials, PP retains its flexibility without becoming brittle. This is a game-changer for producing living hinges, clips, and other components that need both strength and flexibility.
- Cost-Effective Production: PP’s cost-effectiveness, combined with the efficiency of the H350, offers a practical solution for high-volume production, delivering substantial savings.
Impact Across Industries
The addition of PP to the H350’s material portfolio is a significant leap forward for various sectors. In automotive, the ability to quickly and affordably produce lightweight, chemically resistant parts is set to streamline prototyping and accelerate time-to-market. Consumer goods manufacturers will benefit from the durability and flexibility of PP, enabling them to create more resilient products, from household items to packaging.
See the Proof:
The Road Ahead
Stratasys’s introduction of SAF Polypropylene for the H350 isn’t just a material update—it’s a step forward in the evolution of additive manufacturing. By combining the versatility of PP with the precision of SAF technology, Stratasys is empowering manufacturers to explore new possibilities and bring innovative products to market faster than ever. As the industry advances, materials like SAF Polypropylene will play a critical role in expanding the scope of what can be achieved with additive manufacturing. With the H350, Stratasys is leading the charge, shaping a future where manufacturing is lighter, stronger, and more adaptable.
View the material data sheet for SAF Polypropylene below or download the extended material data sheet.
If you are interested in learning more about Stratasys’s new SAF Polypropylene offering or any aspect of the SAF technology, please reach out to PADT, and one of our skilled engineers will be happy to answer your questions. Our team has been involved in additive manufacturing for 30 years now, and we have a unique understanding of the applications of this technology. As an early tester of the SAF systems, few know the ins and outs of this exciting machine like PADT does. We are here to help with SAF Polypropylene technology, any other materials, or additive manufacturing in general.
