Global polymer supplier, Solvay, has invited university students from around the world to compete in its Additive Manufacturing Cup competition.
Over thirty teams from thirteen countries enrolled in the contest which challenges students to 3D print complex shapes using Solvay’s KetaSpire polyetheretherketone (PEEK) filaments for a chance to win up to 10,000 Euro towards academic and entrepreneurial projects.
“3D printing is a remarkable manufacturing technology that is developing quickly,” said Brian Alexander, Additive Manufacturing Manager for Solvay’s Specialty Polymers global business unit. “It can deliver fully functional prototypes as well as cost-efficient single to small volume applications much faster than traditional manufacturing. However, printing with the world’s best performing polymers remains a challenge. Solvay’s Additive Manufacturing Cup is to demonstrate that the time has come for this to change.”
PEEK is a high performing thermoplastic with great mechanical and chemical resistance but it is also one of the most difficult materials to 3D print with. Solvay’s KetaSpire PEEK offers a good combination of mechanical and chemical resistance even at continuous-use in temperatures of up to 240°C. It also offers insulation and electrical resistance properties, ideal for a range of industrial applications, as well as low moisture and flame retardancy. For the competition, Solvay will supply its PEEK filament and material data to the students which it hopes will encourage the creativity needed to drive additive manufacturing to the next level.
Final parts from each student team will be evaluated on their mechanical stability and aesthetic qualities by an international panel of Solvay polymer, design and additive manufacturing specialists. Three winners will be announced on 22nd March 2018 with prizes of 10,000, 5,000 and 3,000 Euros.
