{"id":4819,"date":"2020-06-18T08:08:00","date_gmt":"2020-06-18T08:08:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ultimakerstage.wpengine.com\/learn\/"},"modified":"2023-05-19T09:22:38","modified_gmt":"2023-05-19T09:22:38","slug":"flame-retardant-materials-a-beginners-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ultimaker.com\/it\/learn\/flame-retardant-materials-a-beginners-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Flame-retardant materials: A beginner\u2019s guide"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Flame<\/div>\n

Flame-retardant materials: A beginner\u2019s guide<\/h1><\/div><\/div><\/section>\n

Flame-retardant materials are vital in some 3D printing applications. They\u2019re more thermally stable than other materials, which means the likelihood of ignition or burning is reduced.<\/p><\/div>\n

These materials<\/a> are ideal for end-use parts, replacement parts, tools, or fixtures where combustion may occur. There\u2019s a wide range to choose from, with each offering specific benefits.<\/p>\n

Why are flame-retardant materials important?<\/h2>\n

In some working environments, fire is a risk. Flame-retardant materials help prevent fires, or limit their spread. This gives workers valuable extra time to ensure their safety. The use of flame-retardant materials is sometimes mandatory, in order to comply with safety standards.<\/p>\n

Common uses of flame-retardant materials<\/h2>\n

Flame-retardants are used in several different ways.<\/p>\n

They play a key role in 3D printed electronics, ensuring that the end-products meet fire safety standards. Good examples are wires and cables, which are coated in flame-retardant plastic.<\/p>\n

The transportation industry also relies on fire-retardant materials. 3D printed parts for airplanes, cars, and trains ensure that companies are fully compliant with safety regulations. Likewise, the construction sector uses flame-retardant materials in homes, offices, and public buildings.\n<\/p><\/section>\n

\"Flame-retardant<\/figure>
<\/div>\n<\/path>\n<\/path><\/svg>\nWatch the video<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n

What else should you know?<\/h2>\n

The difference between flame-retardant and flame-resistant materials<\/h3>\n

Flame-resistant materials are designed to resist burning and withstand heat. Flame-retardant materials have a different purpose \u2013 preventing fires from starting, and limiting their spread.<\/p>\n

Base materials<\/h3>\n

Common base materials for flame-retardancy include engineering grade thermoplastics like PA, ABS, PC, and some TPUs. PC-ABS is suitable for electronics. Some 3D printing filaments already possess flame-retardant properties themselves, such as PPS and PVDF.<\/p>\n

Additives for flame-retardancy<\/h3>\n

Some materials are inherently flame-resistant. However, thermally stable polymers might limit print performance, and they\u2019re also costly and difficult to process. This is why manufacturers incorporate flame retardant additives to materials, as they slow the rate of combustion, reduce smoke, and limit dripping.<\/p>\n

Certification<\/h3>\n

Flame-retardancy is certified via UL 94, the Standard for Safety of Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances testing. This flammability standard<\/a> was released by Underwriters Laboratories in the US.<\/p>\n

The certifications are (from least to most flame-retardant):<\/p>\n