Harnessing the Power of Inert Atmospheric Control in 3D Printed Orthotic Insoles ??

Hello, it's Christian from 3DVerkstan Danmark. Today, I'm excited to delve into the transformative world of 3D printed orthotic insoles, particularly focusing on the role of inert atmospheric control in the manufacturing process, as showcased by Formlabs.

Traditional orthotics manufacturing can be cumbersome, often involving multiple manual steps. However, with the evolution of 3D printing and scanning technology, a streamlined digital workflow for orthotics fabrication has emerged. Formlabs' Fuse 1+ 30W SLS printer stands out in this domain, offering an efficient method for fabricating rigid insole shells.

?? Why the Fuse 1+ 30W?:

The Fuse 1+ 30W is not just another 3D printer. Its compact design makes it a perfect fit for orthotics labs, replacing bulky manual impression equipment. With part quality comparable to pricier machines like HP's multi-jet fusion or EOS sintering machines, the Fuse 1+ 30W offers a smooth transition from manual to digital workflows. Its material library includes Nylon 11 Powder, which mirrors the properties of traditional orthotic materials, ensuring a seamless adoption process.

?? Inert Atmospheric Control:

One of the standout features of the Fuse 1+ 30W is its inert gas atmosphere, which significantly enhances part quality and user experience. Printing in inert gas atmospheres, specifically nitrogen, prevents SLS powders like Nylon 11 from oxidizing. This oxidation can compromise the mechanical properties of printed parts over time. By replacing air with nitrogen, the Fuse 1+ 30W ensures optimal mechanical properties for parts printed from refreshed powder, allowing for more unsintered powder to be recycled. This not only ensures the durability of the insoles but also optimizes the cost-per-part.

?? Refresh Rate:

The refresh rate describes the mass fraction of new powder added to the recovered recycled material. By combining recycled powder with new powder, users can reduce costs, minimize waste, and enhance the efficiency of the printing process. For the Fuse 1+ 30W, the recommended refresh rate for Nylon 11 Powder in N2 Mode is 30%. This balance ensures both quality and cost-effectiveness.

?? The Bigger Picture:

The majority of individuals could benefit from custom insoles, but traditional manufacturing processes have often been a barrier. With advancements in 3D scanning and printing, the process has become more accessible. The Fuse SLS Series, with its compact nature and complete workflow, is an ideal choice for insole manufacturers transitioning to a digital approach. The result? High-quality, custom insoles made more accessible than ever.

At 3DVerkstan Danmark, we're always eager to share and implement the latest in 3D printing technology. If you're intrigued by the potential of 3D printed insoles or have any questions about this innovative approach, we're here to assist.

?? Phone: +4593404337

?? Email: [email protected]

?? Website: 3dverkstan.dk