How can I 3D print FDA-compliant components?
Several companies are actively promoting food-safe
materials, with a growing number specializing in solutions for the food
industry. As public concern over the health impacts of plastics in direct
contact with food continues to rise, it is essential for igus to maintain the
highest standards of material safety and compliance.
Food grade 3D printing at igus
"Food grade" refers to materials deemed safe for
contact with food. These materials undergo rigorous testing under harsh but
realistic conditions to assess potential risks, including toxicity and the
migration of plastic components or chemicals into food. A migration limit is
established to define the maximum permissible amount of a substance that can
transfer to the food product.
What are the key steps to 3D print a component?
To ensure a 3D-printed component meets the requirement, proper filament storage, printer maintenance, and optimized
settings are essential. Food-compliant tribo-filaments undergo migration testing
in certified laboratories to confirm regulatory adherence. To preserve material
integrity, store the filament in a dry environment, protected from external
contaminants. Before printing, remove it from its packaging, safeguard it
against dust, and ensure it is thoroughly dried to maintain optimal
performance.
Proper drying of the filament is crucial to preventing
moisture-related degradation, which can lead to air pockets when melted in the
nozzle. This ensures consistent surface quality and finish. It is recommended
to use a drying temperature that remains within the plastic’s maximum
application limit while avoiding damage to the reel. Filament drying can be
performed using a specialized drying air oven or a standard household fan oven.
Equally important is regular maintenance and cleaning of the
printer. All components that come into contact with the filament should be free
of residues, particularly the extruder sprocket and the nozzle. Additionally, a
clean print bed is essential for optimal results. Using a thoroughly cleaned
glass plate with either no adhesive or a food-grade adhesive is advised to
maintain high-quality prints.
Proper Configuration of a 3D Printer
To achieve a tightly sealed surface on the printed object,
the slicing software settings should be carefully adjusted. This includes
reducing the printing speed and aligning the line width with the nozzle
diameter, which helps minimize surface irregularities and close gaps in the
cover layers. Additionally, the material must be kept free from dust before and
during printing, making a closed installation space highly recommended.
Moreover, food-grade components should not be produced using
multi-material printing alongside non-food-grade materials, as the possibility
of material cross-contamination cannot be entirely eliminated. Therefore, the
support material should either be food-grade or the same material used for the
main print to ensure compliance.
Food-Grade 3D Printing at igus
By following these guidelines, we have successfully ensured
food conformity across a range of filaments. As a
result, the manufactured 3D-printed components meet food safety standards,
offering a notable advantage compared to other food-compliant 3D printing
materials.
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