Snowwhite2 HT printing BASF PA6

Optimization of BASF PA6 Thermoplastic Printing Parameters on SnowWhite2HT

This technical summary outlines the optimized printing protocol developed by Sharebot for BASF PA6 thermoplastic powder using the SnowWhite2HT platform. To prevent part warping and lifting in multilayer builds, a dynamic temperature strategy is implemented: initiating the print at 155°C and increasing the temperature to 158°C by the third layer. To ensure aesthetic excellence and prevent the characteristic yellowing of PA6, the process requires maintaining an oxygen-level below 2% under a nitrogen inert atmosphere, utilizing 100% fresh powder (avoiding blends with recycled material). For optimal structural integrity and surface finish, the protocol utilizes a 0.1mm layer thickness, 0.1mm scan hatching, and an energy density of 20 mJ/mm². Material flowability is maintained through temperature-controlled spreading, effective from room temperature up to 140°C. All parameters are optimized to ensure a clean, stable powder bed and high-dimensional accuracy.

Key Findings and Parameter Settings for SnowWhite2HT

At Sharebot, we are constantly refining our printing processes to ensure the highest-quality output for our clients. We recently conducted an extensive series of tests using BASF PA6 thermoplastic powder on our SnowWhite2HT platform.

The goal: to identify the precise thermal and atmospheric conditions required to achieve structural integrity and aesthetic excellence.

Material Flow and Spreading
Our initial assessments focused on the powder’s flowability. We observed excellent performance both at room temperature and when heated up to 140°C. During the spreading process (with powder layer parameter of 0.2mm and 0.3mm), the powder demonstrated high stability, forming a clean and consistent powder bed without the formation of lumps.

The Challenge of Thermal Management
Achieving the perfect balance between stability and part quality was the core of our testing.

Single-Layer Testing: We identified a narrow optimal temperature window. Temperatures below 150°C led to significant warping, while temperatures exceeding 160°C caused localized melting. Through iterative testing, we identified 155°C as the optimal baseline.

Multilayer Testing: In multilayer builds, we encountered challenges with part lifting and powder bed contamination during the warm-up phase at higher temperatures. To solve this, we implemented a dynamic temperature strategy: starting the print at 155°C and increasing the temperature to 158°C by the third layer. This approach ensures the part remains flat while keeping the powder bed clean and stable.

Achieving Aesthetic Perfection: Oxygen and Refresh Rates
One of the most critical findings involves the visual quality of the final parts. We observed that even minimal oxygen levels or the use of recycled powder can lead to unwanted yellowing. To produce parts with a clean, light-colored finish, strict adherence to the following conditions is mandatory:

Oxygen Levels: Must be maintained below 2% under a nitrogen inert atmosphere.

Powder Freshness: Use of 100% fresh powder is required (avoiding blends with reused material).