Alumina 4N Resin - FormLabs

Discover the pinnacle of ceramic engineering innovation with the Alumina 4N resin from Formlabs, an integral component of the world's most accessible ceramic 3D printing ecosystem. Revolutionize your manufacturing processes by seamlessly integrating 3D printing technology to produce sophisticated ceramic components without the burden of costly tooling expenses. 

Video 1: The Alumina 4N resin by FormLabs. Source: FormLabs.

Traditionally, the fabrication of alumina components necessitated ceramic pressing or injection molding methods, both reliant on expensive tooling investments. The Alumina 4N resin emerges as the preferred choice in applications where conventional metals and polymers falter. Upon undergoing washing in the dedicated Ceramic Wash Solution and subsequent firing process, parts 3D printed with the Alumina 4N resin metamorphose into a genuine high-density ceramic (98.6 %) with a purity of 99.99 %, mirroring the properties of conventionally manufactured alumina (Al2O3).

Image 1: Parts 3D printed with the Alumina 4N resin by FormLabs. Source: FormLabs.

Engineered to excel in the harshest of conditions, this material demonstrates exceptional resistance to elevated temperatures (max. working temperature of 1500 ºC) and abrasion (hardness HV10 of 1370), coupled with formidable mechanical strength and chemical inertness (non-corrosive and non-reactive).

Image 2: Parts 3D printed with the Alumina 4N resin by FormLabs. Source: FormLabs.

Parts 3D printed with the Alumina 4N resin excel in extreme environments, exhibiting thermal resilience, hardness, abrasion resistance, mechanical robustness, and chemical inertness. The material's versatility finds expression in a myriad of applications, including:

• High-voltage components: frames, connector housings and covers, terminal boards.
• Components for thermal protection: spark plug insulators, electrical mounts, insulating frames or tubes.
• Chemically resistant components: manifold pipes, paddles, mixing pipes and blades.
• Foundry tools for metal casting: taps, crucibles, troughs, sprues, mixing tools, thermocouple protection sleeves, metal filters, etc.

These features make the Alumina 4N resin ideal for the additive manufacturing of highly customized parts with complex geometries for industries such as defence, manufacturing, chemicals and automotive at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional subtractive manufacturing methods.

Recommended equipment

For optimal results, seamless integration and exceptional performance, it's crucial to utilize a stainless steel build platform when printing with the Alumina 4N resin. This material is compatible with a range of Formlabs 3D printers, including the Form 3, Form 3+ as well as Form 3B, and Form 3B+. Experience the future of ceramic engineering with the Alumina 4N resin, where innovation meets reliability in the realm of advanced manufacturing.

Additional resources

In addition to the resin's safety and technical datasheets, and a firing manual available in the Downlods section, Formlabs offers numerous resources on the Formlabs website:

• Alumina 4N resin quick start guide.
• Alumina 4N Resin design recommendations.
• 3D printing and firing of the Alumina 4N resin.
• Recommended tools and materials for working with the Alumina 4N resin.
• Troubleshooting problems with parts 3D printed with the Alumina 4N resin.