Stratasys debuted black color ULTEM 9085, a high-performance thermoplastic, for use in its FDM additive manufacturing (or 3D printing) process. ULTEM 9085 from SABIC Innovative Plastics has superior strength, is lightweight, and has other desirable characteristics, including an FST rating, the company says. The FST (flame, smoke and toxicity) rating is a safety standard that ensures a material won't promote a fire, release harmful smoke, or emit toxic fumes, and it is particularly valued in the transportation industries. "The majority of our tan ULTEM users have requested the material also be available in black, because it gives a uniform look to product assemblies," said Fred Fischer, business development director at Stratasys. "It also helps mask dirt or grease found in mechanical systems or under the hood, in the fuselage, or on the manufacturing floor. For many users, the black color will eliminate the need for non-value-added post-processing step of painting or coating." Like standard ULTEM 9085, the black color material has a V-0 flammability rating. The material is heat resistant up to 320 degrees Fahrenheit and is inherently flame-retardant, offering full FST compliance including OSU heat release of less than 55/55, or 55 kw min/m2 for heat release and 55 kw/m2 for peak heat release. For more information, visit Stratasys. Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company's website.
| 
