A sophisticated range of reliable, high-quality components are designed, manufactured and distributed by Fenner Drives, covering the climate control, data center, distribution center, and packaging markets with a range of product lines. These applications include belts, beltings, bushings and tensioners available in product lines such as Keyless Locking Devices, PowerMax Composite Solutions, and T-Max Tensioners. Fenner Drives is also in the business of making 3D printing filament, which was recently used to 3D print a screen for one of its own extrusion lines — saving thousands in annual maintenance costs.
This clog-preventing screen’s function is to prevent material from clogging the oxygen control flapper, which is an important piece of machine equipment because it works across nine material vacuum transfer systems on Fenner Drives’ extrusion line. In fact, NinjaFlex, which claims it is the “industry leading flexible filament,” is made from a patented and “specially formulated thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material” with a “low tack, easy-to-feed texture.” It also has other key features that make it “ideal for direct drive extruders,” including: a consistent diameter; smooth feeding from a low friction exterior; high elasticity; excellent vibration reduction; strong chemical and abrasion resistance; and great build platform adhesion and post-processing capabilities.
Two other great features which we tend to discuss a lot when it comes to 3D printing are convenience and cost effectiveness. In fact, Fenner Drives reports that choosing to 3D print the screen in NinjaFlex saved the company a whopping $10,500!
How’s that for cost-effective, low maintenance parts replacement? Discuss in the Fenner Drives 3D Printed Screen forum over at 3DPB.com.