As per the 2021 Hubs Additive Manufacturing Trend Report, 73% of engineering businesses predict they will produce or source more 3D printed parts in this current year versus previous. This adds further credence to 3D printing being utilised as a real production tool, beyond prototyping. With 3D printing increasingly used for industrial and end-use applications, the demand for ESD-safe 3D printing materials is growing.
What is Electrostatic Discharge and Why is it a Problem?
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a swift discharge of electric current between two objects with different charges and different numbers of electrons. A large electromagnetic field buildup is created from this exchange of electrons, which results in ESD.
A common, real-life example of ESD is the shock felt in your hand when touching metal door handles, caused by the difference in electrical potential.
ESD is a problem in industry because it can damage or even destroy sensitive electronic components – in fact, around $40 billion in losses from ESD damage occur annually in the electronics industry alone.
Because of this, there is tangible, industry demand for ESD-safe filament for 3D printing, in order to prevent costly damage to equipment by mitigating static electricity discharge.
Example 3D Printing Applications for ESD-Safe Materials
As per Raise3D, ESD-safe 3D printer filament is recommended for use in industries such as:
Semi-conductor
Electrical appliance casings
Industrial equipment