Forward AM, the Additive Manufacturing business of BASF, has added a new range of 3D printing materials to its portfolio: advanced glass fiber reinforced filaments.
This new line of products is developed by the XSTRAND® business line from Owens Corning, a material specialist whose XSTRAND® business line has recently been acquired by BASF. The new acquisition includes the transfer of the brand and key IP, but does not envisage the transfer of any personnel.
In the latest issue of 3D ADEPT Mag (PP 22-24), François Minec, Managing Director of BASF 3D Printing Solutions GmbH, run us through BASF’s story in the 3D Printing industry, a story marked by strategic acquisitions to position itself as one to watch in this industry.
With the addition of the XSTRAND® product line, BASF will meet several other needs raised in certain applications that require high rigidity and strength. Indeed, Owens Corning developed three glass fiber reinforced filaments (Polyamide 6, Polypropylene, Polycarbonate) as part of this product line. Despite their 30 percent of glass fibers, each material can be well processed by 3D printers.
As a matter of fact, the company confirmed that the mechanical properties delivered by these materials, outperform market standard polymer filaments.
“With the integrated glass fibers, the filaments show outstanding heat deflection and high durability, amongst other characteristics, making them particularly suited for challenging applications in 3D printing for automotive or household appliances, for instance” Forward AM explains in a press communication.
Dr. Christopher Skinner, Vice President of Strategic Marketing, Composites, Owens Corning, adds: “BASF’s capability will enable the further acceleration of XSTRAND® products and support future growth of the composites industry. Owens Corning will continue its collaboration with BASF as we transition XSTRAND® to them.”
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