[rp-ml] Any Use for Glass-filled Nylon CAKE powder

Hello All
 
It has been a long time since I posed a question on this list, but I
still keep an eye out for interesting discussions.
 
We are using a HiQ Sinterstation with a variety of 3D Systems powders.
As with all bureaux we try to push the boundaries of the recommended
parameters for building/recycling etc. etc.
 
When we push the recycling boundaries for standard nylon (i.e. less
virgin, more cake and overflow) we get a drop-off in surface finish
quality, but not a lot else in difference. This is acceptable in certain
conditions, especially when painting parts etc.
However when we do the same for Glass-filled nylon (noticeably
introducing CAKE into the mix) we get a distinct drop-off in strength of
component. (No noticeable down-turn in surface quality)
 
GF questions
Does anyone else agree with these findings?
Does anyone else use CAKE in their GF recycling?
Are there any additives we can introduce to increase the strength, when
using CAKE in the mix?
 
Am I wasting my time trying to use the CAKE at all, should I just bin
it?
 
 
Thank you
 
Ross Nicholls
 
General Manager
Malcolm Nicholls Limited
 
Waterloo Industrial Estate
Bidford-on-Avon
Warwickshire
B50 4JH
 
T +44 (0) 1789 490382
F +44 (0) 1789 490130
E ross@mnl.co.uk
W www.mnl.co.uk
 
Received on Fri Feb 24 11:49:58 2006