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We are attempting to print some single-use prototypes using an SLS printer. The parts must be somewhat water-resistant for short-term usage, but do not have to been waterproof entirely.

According to this page, Post processing for SLS printed parts - Water tightness, any silicone type or vinyl-acrylate sealant should work well, but I was hoping that the Stack users here might have some specific suggestions.

Does anybody have specific recommendations for sealing SLS prints?

Trish
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JPeroutek
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1 Answers1

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SLS prints from nylon are somewhat porous. This means, that they will let a stabilizer soak into the outer surface to some degree.

What kind of stabilizer is needed is depending somewhat on the properties you want, but generally I believe these might be useable depending on the viscosity:

  • 2-component resins could be used, but they are usually very viscous. Their viscosity, however, is dependent on the exact type and mixture and could be altered by temperature.
  • 1-component (air-hardening) resins or resin lacquers can be thinned to achieve a solution into which the item is then dunked and dripped off. How much thinner is adviseable depends on the exact material
  • Nitrocellulose lacquer, like it is used in guitar building, is extremely fluid and could be used for treatment via dunking.
  • PU lacquer could be used too.
Trish
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