Which 3D Printing Processes Are Watertight?

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Different additive manufacturing processes can be used for different applications. The properties of parts can differ greatly simply based on how they are made, even when the part geometry is identical. When designing a part that will be used with liquids, it is important to know which processes can produce watertight parts. The chart below goes over each process and what you can expect in terms of its watertight properties.

 

Process Watertight Parts? Considerations
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) NO ❌
  • Liquid will seep from micro gaps between printed layers.
  • Additional post-processing and sealers may improve water tightness. 
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) YES ✔️
  • Liquid penetrates roughly .25mm into surfaces.
  • Parts may absorb more liquid when exposed for long periods of time (over 24 hours).
HP Multijet Fusion (HP MJF) YES ✔️
  • HP 3D High Reusability PA 12 material is recommended for water-tight applications.
Stereolithography (SLA) YES ✔️
  • Suitable for short-term use
  • Materials have high absorption rates and can become brittle when exposed to liquids for long periods.
PolyJet YES ✔️
  • Suitable for prototyping applications.
Carbon Digital Light Synthesis™ (DLS) YES ✔️
  • No additional sealing needed.
Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) YES ✔️
  • Some metals may experience corrosion to prolonged exposure to water.
Metal Binder Jetting YES ✔️
  • Some metals may experience corrosion to prolonged exposure to water.

 

 

See our FDM and SLS water tightness comparison in our video here:

 

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