Stratasys Unveils Flame-Retardant Composite for Rail and Transportation
Stratasys has introduced a new flame-retardant composite material, FDM PA6/66-GF30-FR, designed for certified end-use and spare parts in the rail and transportation sectors, compatible with Fortus 450mc and F900 systems.
Stratasys has launched its FDM PA6/66-GF30-FR, a new flame-retardant composite material specifically developed to support customers in the rail and transportation industries. This material is engineered for use on Stratasys' Fortus 450mc and F900 3D printing systems, aiming to produce certified end-use parts and critical spare parts.
The development of FDM PA6/66-GF30-FR was a collaborative effort with railway OEMs and service providers who identified a need for certified, production-ready additive manufacturing solutions that balance regulatory compliance, performance, and cost-effectiveness. The material meets stringent fire safety requirements, including EN 45545-2 HL2 (R22/R23) and FMVSS 302.
Stratasys states that the material offers high stiffness and strength, making it suitable for load-bearing, functional applications within the rail sector. It also boasts reliable printability, an excellent surface finish, and repeatable part quality. The PA 6/66 base polymer is reinforced with 30% glass fiber, providing enhanced strength and stiffness compared to PC-FR alternatives and positioning it competitively against materials like ULTEM 9085 resin.
Further enhancing its utility, the material is compatible with SUP4050B breakaway support material, which facilitates efficient post-processing and increased throughput for end-use parts. Industry partners like Alstom Group and Siemens Mobility GmbH have expressed enthusiasm for the material, highlighting its role in enabling certifiable additive manufacturing for qualified spare parts and on-demand production of complex, application-specific components.
The introduction of FDM PA6/66-GF30-FR signifies Stratasys' commitment to developing specialized materials for demanding industries like rail. Its compliance with fire safety standards and high mechanical properties allow for the production of certified, functional parts, moving additive manufacturing beyond prototyping into serial production for critical applications. This aligns with the broader industry trend of leveraging AM for increased efficiency, reduced lead times, and enhanced lifecycle management in transportation.
Edited by the news editor with AI from the original report — please refer to the original source.