Electrical properties of selected Formlabs SLS powders
Electrical properties of selected Formlabs SLS powders
Chemical, optical, mechanical, thermal, or electrical characteristics reflect how a specific material will behave under certain conditions. These attributes can help you assess the benefits of one material versus another for a specific use case.
ASTM-tested properties appear in the datasheets for our powders. There are many other properties that Formlabs has not officially tested.
To the best of our knowledge the information contained herein is accurate. Formlabs makes no warranty, expressed or implied, regarding the accuracy of these results to be obtained from the use thereof.
Resistivity for electrostatic discharge (ESD) (ASTM D257)
The resistivity of a material is a key factor in electrostatic discharge considerations.
| Type of material | Resistivity |
|---|---|
| Insulating materials | > 1 × 10^11 Ω⋅m |
| Electrostatic dissipative materials | 1 × 10^6 Ω⋅m to 1 × 10^9 Ω⋅m |
| Conducting materials | < 1 × 10^4 Ω⋅m |
| Material | Resistivity |
|---|---|
| Nylon 12 Powder | 1 × 10^11 Ω⋅m (Insulating) |
| Nylon 11 Powder | 1 × 10^12 Ω⋅m (Insulating) |
| Nylon 12 GF Powder | 1 × 10^12 Ω⋅m (Insulating) |
| Nylon 11 CF Powder | 1 × 10^3 Ω⋅m (Conductive) |
Dielectric constant and dissipation factor (ASTM D150)
The dielectric constant, or relative permittivity, measures how well a material stores electrical energy in an electric field. The dissipation factor or loss factor indicates how much electrical energy is lost as heat within the material and measures the inefficiency of an insulating material. Both properties are critical in applications where materials are subjected to alternating electrical fields, such as in capacitors, insulators, or radio frequency (RF) components.
- For applications requiring insulation, use powders with a lower dielectric constant.
- For electrical applications requiring high capacitance, use powders with a higher dielectric constant.
| Material | Dielectric Constant | Dissipation Factor |
|---|---|---|
| Nylon 12 Powder | 2.86 at 6.78 MHz 2.80 at 13.56 MHz 2.74 at 27.12 MHz | 0.034 at 6.78 MHz 0.028 at 13.56 MHz 0.008 at 27.12 MHz |
| Nylon 11 Powder | 2.71 at 6.78 MHz 2.68 at 13.56 MHz 2.63 at 27.12 MHz | 0.014 at 6.78 MHz 0.011 at 13.56 MHz 0 at 27.12 MHz |
| Nylon 12 GF Powder | 3.19 at 6.78 MHz 3.15 at 13.56 MHz 3.10 at 27.12 MHz | 0.016 at 6.78 MHz 0.012 at 13.56 MHz 0 at 27.12 MHz |
| Polypropylene Powder | 2.19 at 300 MHz 2.27 at 1000 MHz | <0.003 at 300 MHz <0.001 at 1000 MHz |
| Nylon 11 CF Powder | 31.7 at 300 MHz 19 at 1000 MHz | 0.328 at 300 MHz 0.25 at 1000 MHz |
Comparative Tracking Index (ASTM D3638)
Comparative Tracking Index (CTI) measures a material's resistance to electrical breakdown when exposed to a wet or contaminated surface. Specifically, it quantifies the maximum voltage at which a material can withstand electrical tracking between two electrodes on its surface. Tracking refers to the formation of a conductive path along the surface of the material, often caused by moisture, dust, or contaminants.
Comparative Tracking Index test specifications:
- Lab maximum voltage: 600 V
| Material | CTI (V) |
|---|---|
| Nylon 11 Powder | 600 |
| Nylon 11 CF Powder | 245 |
| Nylon 12 Powder | 600 |
| Nylon 12 GF Powder | 600 |
| Polypropylene Powder | 600 |