Not every part made by additive manufacturing is meant to be flexible.

Some parts have to be able to withstand constant pressurized loads or high temperatures, which create constant high-stress levels, meaning that they have to be manufactured to be stiff, stable and accurate in their dimensions.

That’s where glass bead-filled nylon (PA12GB) will help.

By adding glass beads, you increase the stiffness and dimensional stability of the part, and therefore, you ensure that the part will hold its shape and fit properly into the band assembly, or any other assembly.

So to sum it up:

• PA12 – has balanced characteristics and is very versatile.
• PA12GB – has increased stiffness and dimensional stability.

In other words, choosing the correct material is about matching the materials to the actual use requirements of the part.