Newbie - Filament for use inside fibreglass composite parts
Hi Folks.
Newbie here, I'm working on a project where I've got some blocks which were traditionally machined from I think Delrin, there is some complex and expensive milling required, which would be ok if these were to be done in large volumes but i'm not. So 3D printing would be ideal.
these blocks encapsulate a Stainless steel fastener, and are then inserted into the foam core of a fibreglassed part in order to give resistance to twisting and crushing from the fastener being used to assemble components onto the fibreglass base plate. I'm wondering if anyone has done something similar and has experience of what filaments would be good to use in this use and can handle contact with the resin and the reaction as it goes off.
Thanks
RE:
Most common filaments will be OK with grp resins but always test first on a scrap.
Marine parts may be subjected to considerable forces. PLA, whilst useful for prototyping, is not advised for anything that may be subject to shocks. PETG is tougher and might be enough if you are able to ensure that the lay of the filament is aligned to spread the loads across the glass-mat layup. Nylon filament may be better if you cannot get enough bulk into the available space but high tech filaments may be too stiff and transfer stresses unevenly - you will have to test.
If this is a hull or deck component you must take care that any deformation under load cannot crack your gelcoat or there is a risk that water will get into the lay and cause osmotic breakdown - 'omosis'.
In other words you will have to test; try to get the degree of flex to match, roughly, that of the area over which it will be dissipated and then check the part can take the forces anticipated.
In other, other words: Racing yacht chainplates and winch mounts, probably not. Dayboat clamcleats and binnacle mounts, probably OK.
Cheerio,