At the end of last year, Supernova launched the Pulse Production Platform, based on Viscogels, a viscous material capable of producing parts with a molded-like finish. Recently, the company announced the release of four new materials, specifically designed for demanding industrial applications, with a focus on certification for the transportation sector. According to the company, these new materials deliver performance comparable to molded plastics used in connectors and sealing systems.
One notable feature of the new materials is their compatibility with the VLM process in dual-material mode. This allows the production of components with both rigid and flexible zones in a single operation. Company data suggests this can reduce unit costs by more than 50% by eliminating expensive tooling. To better understand the new materials and their intended applications, here’s a quick overview of the official launch.
The new materials can be printed in a single part and in a single process.
The first two materials launched by Supernova are elastomers: RU55 and RU50. They replicate the behavior of molded EPDM elastomers (ethylene propylene diene rubber) while offering added advantages in dimensional stability and chemical resistance. According to the company, these new elastomers are ideal for sealing systems, gaskets, and cable glands that require stability under extreme conditions.
The other two materials, ST1-V0 and ST3-HB, have been named Rigids. They are designed for applications such as electrical connector housings and other structural parts where mechanical strength and fire safety are required. These materials are flame-retardant and certified to UL94 V0 at 1.8 mm thickness, which is uncommon for additive manufacturing materials. The company considers them ideal for producing parts in the automotive, rail, industrial, and even aerospace sectors.
Roger Antúnez, founder and CEO of Supernova, stated: “This is the first time in additive manufacturing that materials can meet, and in some cases exceed, the requirements of molded plastics in real transportation applications. By focusing on connectors and sealing systems, we are showing that Viscogels are ready to meet the demands of the most demanding industrial customers.“
Currently, all four materials are being evaluated in beta programs with partners in the transportation and industrial sectors. The goal is to confirm their performance against certification standards so they can be adopted for real production. The company also mentioned in the press release that they are already working on new silicone and more rigid polymer variants aimed at competing with glass-fiber-reinforced compounds.
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All Photo Credits: Supernova