Chromatic Launches ChromaScan™ Software for Printing Resin on 3D Objects
NOV. 9, 2022 — MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Chromatic 3D Materials, a 3D-printing technology provider, has launched ChromaScan™, an additive manufacturing software for printing resin on nonplanar surfaces. This new technology allows manufacturers to 3D print durable, flexible materials directly onto metals, plastics, textiles and other substrates of any shape. The result is industrial-strength adhesion between the printed material and the substrate, without postprocessing or assembly.
“Hyperbolic print paths are challenging for existing technologies. But ChromaScan™ easily adapts a flat print path for printing on 3D surfaces. This opens up a world of design possibilities, as well as more streamlined, cost effective and sustainable manufacturing for our customers,” said CEO Dr. Cora Leibig.
Rubber track pads 3D printed directly onto metal using Chromatic 3D Materials' ChromaScan™ software.
First, the software scans an object placed on the print bed. Then it manipulates the print path, yielding a high-quality print that conforms to the surface below. The print application is precise, with higher pass rates and better print quality, which improves overall production yields.
With ChromaScan™, manufacturers can reduce or eliminate post processing and assembly processes like adhesives and stitching. Benefits include faster and more efficient production, fewer labor and materials costs as well as a reduced environmental footprint with less material waste.
ChromaScan™ is suitable for a wide range of consumer and industrial applications. For example, Chromatic used ChromaScan™ to 3D print trackpads for a 50-year-old antique tractor with a unique tread, which was difficult to source. Chromatic printed rubber pads directly onto metal plates with protruding bolts. The new pads offered the same durability and abrasion resistance of the original parts.
ChromaScan™ also has potential uses in footwear and apparel. With ChromaScan™, it’s possible to 3D print a shoe sole directly onto a last or 3D print aesthetic or functional elements onto finished clothing.
Chromatic will be showcasing ChromaScan™ at Formnext 2022 in Frankfurt at stand B39 in hall 12.1.
ChromaScan™ software is available for purchase as an add-on to the RX-AMTM materials and technology platform for reactive extrusion additive manufacturing with urethane elastomers. RX-AM™ is designed for industrial use and commercial-scale production.
About Chromatic 3D Materials
Chromatic 3D Materials is a 3D-printing technology company focused on more flexible, cost-effective and sustainable manufacturing of industrial-strength elastomeric products. Its portfolio includes printable polyurethanes and other thermoset elastomers for applications in transportation, industrial seals and gaskets, textiles, medical devices and defense. Chromatic’s RX-AM™ materials and technology platform is based on Reactive Extrusion Additive Manufacturing, a type of deposition 3D printing that uses chemical reactions. Founded in 2016 by CEO Dr. Cora Leibig, Chromatic now has facilities in the US and Germany. The company serves more than 50 customers and development partners globally. Visit c3dm.com to learn more.
Shown below: A vintage tractor rides on rubber track pads that were printed directly on aluminum with the ChromaScan technology.