Printing objects that are water tight
I started using PLA and then painting in epoxy paint. It works, but a lot of work and after time. Became brittle.
Then searched for a filament that would be a better fit. Tried PETG, worked better being chemical resistant, but warping was a big issue.
Then found Fiberlogy CPE HT. First print did not turn out right, enough was printed that showed it was water tight. The problem was figuring out the correct settings. PETG settings were not correct.
After multiple attempts found need to start with PETG settings and then print at the highest temperature 280. With a bed temperature of 120. Fan speed 0-25%. Added a Brim.
Now prints very well every time.
what would help is a standard way of defining properties needed. A file the is included with each filament that you can download and import. A QR code printed on the spool would be even better.
RE: Printing objects that are water tight
There are several articles on the Prusa site on printing watertight models:
https://help.prusa3d.com/article/watertight-prints_112324
https://blog.prusa3d.com/watertight-3d-printing-pt1-vases-cups-and-other-open-models_48949/
https://blog.prusa3d.com/watertight-3d-printing-part-2_53638/
what would help is a standard way of defining properties needed. A file the is included with each filament that you can download and import. A QR code printed on the spool would be even better.
The Prusa Materials page has a lot of that information, including for CPE:
https://help.prusa3d.com/materials
Formerly known on this forum as @fuchsr -- until all hell broke loose with the forum software...
RE:
Thanks for replying. I did try some of the suggestions when I first started. However they were not simple prints and needed to have exact dimensions.
Also food safe.
https://fiberlogy.com/en/fiberlogy-filaments/cpe-ht/
RE:
Food safe? Good luck with that. FFF/FDM technology leaves lots of nooks and crannies for nasty critters to make a cozy home. You could coat with a an epoxy, but then that is a hassle, and affects geometry. I do sanitary welding (which is a dead nuts serious art) for local breweries. I get the occasional ask for a 3d printed part, usually threaded. I always say no, unless you want your customers to vomit, poop in their pants, and run to the hospital.
Don’t trust forum advice.
RE: Printing objects that are water tight
@eric-e Agreed. In the rare cases I need something food safe, I use epoxy.
Formerly known on this forum as @fuchsr -- until all hell broke loose with the forum software...
RE: Printing objects that are water tight
Like you said using epoxy modifies the geometry, not good for close fitting parts. I would still personally not would to eat from it. Building a plant watering system. Water drips onto fruit baring plants, so want to reduce unwanted chemicals in the water. I found this filament so far meets the bill.
RE: Printing objects that are water tight
Did you have a look at Fillamentum nonoilen filament?
Prints nicely and easy. They are marketing it as the filament that they use for office coffee cups. Haven't tried the cup print personally though...
RE: Printing objects that are water tight
Looks like it might also work, although in USA even more expensive. Also need to cope with soil and chemicals (plant food).
RE: Printing objects that are water tight
The numerous crevices left by FFF/FDM technology make it easy for pestilent creatures to establish a comfy home. You could coat with epoxy, but it would be troublesome and would change the geometry.