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FAQ

About 3D printer services

Introduction of 3d printers

Q We are thinking of introducing a 3D printer model that can model rubber and soft resin products. Do you have such a model?

A

Yes. We have a wide range of products. Our sales staff will make a proposal based on what kind of 3D modeling you would like to do.

Q I am thinking of introducing a 3d printer, but I don’t know how to use it and feel that 3D data conversion would be difficult. Will I have to study it on my own?

A

Support is available. Depending on the model, “paid training” may be available as an option. If you study on your own, it is easy to get stuck in the middle. This training is very popular because it allows the person in charge of the operation to work on the 3D printer with a good understanding of it.

Q What consumables are needed for 3dprinter?

A

“Filament”, “Plate surface sheet” and “Nozzle” are the main consumables for MEX type printers.
If any of the parts are damaged due to mishandling, etc., each part must be purchased.
*SLA type is described in the “SmaPri part”.

Q When installing a 3d printer, what other items are needed in addition to the printer?

A

Materials (filament, resin, syringe), PC (used for 3D data conversion) 3D data conversion software (available at no charge for each machine), 3D data (extension stl) etc. are required. If you are unable to create 3D data, we can create 3D data and convert it. (Consultation required).

Q How will the printers be delivered?

A

Delivery will be made by general route delivery service. Please note that time cannot be specified.

Q Do you handle metal 3d printers?

A

No, we don’t handle metal 3d printers.

Q Can I borrow a 3D printer that I am considering to purchase?

A

No. We don’t support that.

Q Do you sell ancillary equipment other than 3D printers?

A

Yes, we do. For 3D printers that require ancillary equipment such as SLA, we also sell ancillary equipment, so please consult with our sales staff.

Q Can I lease a 3d printer?

A

Yes, we can introduce a leasing company. It is an operating lease. In the case of finance leases, the customer is responsible for confirming the lease.

Q Is it possible to see the actual 3d printer and samples before purchasing a 3D printer?

A

Yes. We have a “3D printer showroom” at our Kuki factory in Saitama.
Please visit our factory.
Please feel free to contact our sales staff for more information and samples.
TEL: 03-3614-4100
e-mail: hotty@hotty.co.jp

Q I am considering installing a 3D printer.
What type of 3D printer should I purchase?

A

Our sales staff will be available for consultation.
Our sales staff will make a proposal including what the customer wants to work on with the 3D printer, examples of 3D printer applications, and the characteristics of each method of fabrication.

Q When I ask for a test modeling, can you tell me the modeling time and material cost?

A

Yes, we will provide you with a “modeling report” that includes modeling time, material costs, and modeling conditions.

Q We are considering installing a 3D printer.
I would like to know what kind of modeling products it can produce.

A

You can confirm this by doing the ‘3D printing service’ before installing a 3D printer.
If you send us your 3D data, we will do the printing service.

3d printig service

Q We would like to ask you to confirm the shape of the prototype. Can you also consult with us about mass production of extrusion or any method of molding? It would take a lot of time and effort to consult with a different company for mass production.

A

Our slogan is “from prototyping to mass production,” and we are able to provide a comprehensive range of services. Our core business is rubber and plastic extrusion molding, and we also offer compression molding and injection molding services through our network. We are also able to propose shapes and materials based on our expertise in materials and molding, since we have been manufacturing rubber and plastic products for a long time. Please contact us for more information.
Contact

Q Do you deliver the 3d printed products with or without support materials?

A

Basically, we remove the support material and deliver the product. If you wish, we can deliver the product with support materials. Please contact us when you place an order.

Q How long does it take to deliver?

A

Standard delivery time is one week after receiving an order. The delivery time may vary depending on the printer’s congestion, the quantity of products to be produced, and the degree of difficulty of production.
Contact

Q I would like to see the 3D modeling of the requested model, is it possible?

A

Yes. If you visit our showroom at our Kuki factory, we can show you the model you have requested being printed. Advance reservations are required for this service.

Q Is it possible to model without 3D data?

A

If you provide us with 2D drawings, we can convert them into 3D data. If it is not too complicated, we can also create data from a sketch drawing, so please contact our sales representative.

Q What kind of data is required for 3D printing?

A

Convert your data to STL data. Import the STL data into the dedicated slicer software (free software) that is available for each model. After that, the modeling conditions are set, the modeling data is extracted, and the data is transferred to the printer via USB memory, Wi-Fi, etc.

Q How much “accuracy” can be achieved with the MEX method?

A

Stacking pitch” and “extrusion width” are used in the MEX method. Stacking pitch” is the height of stacking in the 3D Z-axis direction. It can be as small as 0.01mm. The most commonly used pitch is 0.2mm. It is a good balance between molding time and quality. Extrusion width is the thickness of the line when the object is viewed from above. It is affected by the nozzle diameter. In most cases, a 0.4mm nozzle is installed as standard. Optional products such as 0.2mm nozzles are available.

Q What is the maximum size of printed objects?

A

We can accommodate up to 1000x1000x1000mm” size. (depending on the material). For long products, we can also accommodate “lengths of approx. 3000 mm”. (Mainly PLA) Please use this service to examine the shape of long parts such as sash shapes, rail shapes, etc., and to check the secondary processing.

Q What kinds of materials can you handle for 3D printing services?

A

A wide variety of materials are available.
PLA, ABS, PC, PP, PA, super engineering plastic (PEEK, PEI [ULTEM], PPS), soft (100% liquid silicone rubber molding, rubber-like soft resin), Luminous materials, SLA (acrylic material-based general industrial materials, ABS-like, rubber-like, washable resin, dental materials, high transparent materials), etc.
We can also handle long products (approx. 3000L in length) and digital graining (graining on the surface of the modeled object).
For more information, please see the “3D Printing service” page.”

Q Currently, we do not have enough needs for 3D modeling to install a 3D printer, but would you be willing to accept contract processing?

A

We provide 3D printing services. In principle, we can provide a quotation if you send us (1) STL data, (2) material, and (3) number of pieces. Since the infill ratio and stacking pitch vary depending on the application, we would appreciate it if you could also provide us with information on the intended use of the product. Please feel free to contact us.

About customer support

Q Can you provide comprehensive consultation from “prototype production” to “mass production”?

A

Yes. We can provide a full range of services from “prototype production” to “mass production”. [Prototype] 3D modeling. [Mass production] Extrusion molding, injection molding, compression molding. We can also provide consultation from the stage of shape consideration.

Q After purchase, will you actually give me a lecture on something I don’t understand, such as an explanation of how to use the product?

A

Depending on the nature of your inquiry, we can solve your problem through direct communication with our technical staff online, such as in a web meeting, or our sales staff can visit you to explain the problem. (There may be a charge for this service.)

Q If the machine itself breaks down, how should we deal with the machine?

A

First, please contact the HOTTY Polymer Sales Dept. In case of failure, the 3D printer will be placed in the packaging box and sent back (send the machine by courier service and return it after confirmation). We will use the packing box that the 3D printer came in, so we would appreciate it if you could keep it instead of disposing of it.
Contact

Q Who should I contact if my machine breaks down?

A

Please contact the head office sales department of Hotty Polymer. After that, we will correspond with our technical staff.
Contact

Q I am having trouble with the printing.

A

If you have any questions about our filaments, or if you have purchased a 3D printer from us, please contact our sales office. If you provide us with the shape data, our technical staff will check and review it.
Contact

About 3d printing filaments

Q What is a “filament”?

A

It is a “string-like material” used for 3D printer MEX system, etc. It is the equivalent of “ink” in a general copy machine. Filament is generally sold wound on a reel. The image of filament is similar to that of thread wound on a bobbin for a sewing machine. Please feel free to contact us even if you do not understand 3D printer terminology.

Q I would like to produce a new filament, is this possible?

A

Yes. We can produce special filaments using our core technology of extrusion molding. Please contact us for more details. Please contact us for details.
Contact

Q I understand that filaments can be purchased on the e-commerce site, but is it possible to buy them directly from Hotty Polymer?

A

Direct sales are also available. Please select the method that is easiest for you to work with.

Q Can I use non-genuine filaments?

A

Some models can be used if the filament size match the specifications. Please note that machine manufacturers may not guarantee the use of filaments other than genuine filaments.

Q What kind of 3D printer models can be used with HP filament (super flexible type)?

A

It is easier to use with “direct extruder” models but some models have not yet been tested for printing. On the other hand, the “Bowden” models are difficult to model. Please feel free to contact us for more information. *Direct extrude: Models in which the extruder is built in close to the nozzle *Bowden: Models in which the extruder is built into the machine frame or away from the nozzle.
Contact

Q Do you have SDS or physical property data?

A

Yes. Please let us know the filament you are interested in.

About silicone rubber 3d printer

Q Is insert molding possible?

A

Yes, insert molding is possible because SILICOM uses our self-developed slicing software. For more details, please contact our sales representative.

Q Is the heat resistance the same as general silicone rubber?

A

Yes, the same

Q Can I see the actual 3d printer?

A

Yes. You can see our products in the showroom of our Kuki Plant. Advance reservations are required to visit the showroom, so please visit our website or contact the sales representative in charge.
Contact

Q Can I have a molding sample?

A

Yes, we can provide standard samples. If you provide us with STL data, we can make it, so please contact our sales representative.

Q Do you have data on the physical properties of silicone materials?

A

We can provide physical property data for the silicone material used in “innovatiQ LiQ320”, but we cannot provide physical property data for the material used in “SILICOM” because the product has not yet been released.

Q Is it possible to choose the hardness?

A

Currently, “SILICOM” 30° (JISA) and “L320″ 50° (JISA) are available. SILICOM” will be added to the hardness lineup in the future.

Q When I hear about the LAM method, I feel it is difficult, but is it possible to mold with support material?

A

Since it is not possible to attach a support material, we use our patented technology of “cross-linking,” in which data is divided and modeled, and each part is joined using the same material used in the modeling process. Because the same material is used, there is no change in material quality, and the integrally processed modeling object has the same strength as the 3D printed modeling object. Please note that the appearance of the cross-linked joints is different from that of normal modeling.

Q What are the differences between the materials used in “SILICOM” and “innovatiQ LiQ320”?

A

The curing methods of the materials are different. “SILICOM” is UV curable and “innovatiQ LiQ320” is thermoset. Please feel free to contact us for details.
Contact

About SmaPri Sonic series

Q Are there any consumable parts?

A

Yes. There are two types of film: film for resin vat and film for LCD protection. The film for the resin vat should be replaced when it can no longer be successfully modeled. LCD protection film should be replaced when it becomes dirty due to resin adhesion, etc.

Q What is the cost of materials?

A

It varies depending on the resin, but is approximately JPY30/g to JPY40/g.

Q What will happen to the shape and transparency if the output accuracy from 3D data to STL is not improved?

A

Shape reproducibility will be reduced. Transparency is not considered to be affected. The molding data used in optical 3D printers is generated based on STL data. STL is a data method that reproduces a three-dimensional shape as a set of fine planar triangles (positional information). Therefore, the output accuracy is low, and the larger the number of triangles, the lower the reproducibility of curved surfaces. Reference URL:
https://3dpst.com/3183
https://blogs.ricoh.co.jp/3dp/2016/07/3d-22.html

Q Is it safe to leave the resin in the vat at all times? Or should it be stored in a separate container at the end of each day’s modeling?

A

If the resin is not used immediately after molding, it is recommended to put it back into the light-shielded bottle provided to prevent deterioration. We will explain how to put it back in the bottle during the training session when the machine is introduced.

Q What are the molding characteristics of general industrial resins?

A

Each color has some characteristics. White tends to reproduce data better, while black tends to expand slightly.

Q What is “resin”?

A

This is a liquid resin material used in the 3D printer optical modeling method. We use “UV curing” materials that harden when exposed to ultraviolet light.

Q What is the limit of hole diameter modeling?

A

0.6 mm or more. However, depending on the data, it may be possible to reproduce data as small as 0.6 mm. In one of our tests, we were able to reproduce pillar structures up to about 300 µm and hole structures up to about 400 µm. Please contact us for more information.
Contact

Q Why is it that in some cases the first time molding fails in the winter?

A

In winter, the machine and resin tend to be colder and more difficult to fix unless inside a well-heated room. Please make sure to bring the room temperature up to room temperature before molding so that the machine and resin are under room temperature.

Q What is the recommended method of applying color to molded products in the post-process? Spray spraying, dipping (soaking), etc.

A

Spray paints for plastic models are easy to work with, and paint can be applied relatively cleanly.

Q Is it possible to bond “general industrial materials” and “flexible materials or rubber-like materials” with adhesives?

A

Since the material is acrylic resin, it can be bonded by using an acrylic adhesive. Please contact us for a more detailed answer.

Q I think it is comparable to DLP in terms of resolution, but what else is different about SmaPri?

A

The DLP method uses a projection lens system, which tends to distort the image except at the center, but the SmaPri uses the LCD method, which does not use a lens system and directly illuminates LEDs without distortion. Another feature of SmaPri is that it is inexpensive because it uses LEDs (liquid crystal displays), which are widely distributed in the market.

Q It is described as high-precision and high-definition, but why is it cleaner than SLA?

A

The SLA system uses point irradiation, which causes distortion at the edge of the molding area. On the other hand, the LCD type uses surface irradiation, so there is no distortion within the modeling area. For example, when multiple models are modeled within the modeling area, the SLA type produces uneven results depending on the modeling area, whereas the LCD type produces beautiful models with no variation in any area.

Extrrusion Molding Products

About Ordering

Q Do you also offer compression-molded or injection-molded products?

A

Yes. We also handle compression and injection molded products. We can also offer integrated services from molding prototypes to mass production using 3D printers, so please feel free to contact us using the inquiry form.

Rubber Compression Molded Products (PDF file)

Q I would like to ask for cutting and other processing.

A

We can also perform secondary processing (cutting, jointing, taping, drilling, notching, etc.) on extruded products.

Q How long is the delivery time?

A

For in-stock items, delivery is possible within a few days after ordering. For orders from molds, it will take about 3 weeks to 1 month, depending on the material and shape. We have in-house wire EDM and NC milling machines, so we can offer quick delivery and low prices.

Q Is there a minimum order lot size?

A

Basically, there is no minimum order lot size, but there may be a minimum order quantity of materials. Please feel free to contact us using the inquiry form.

Contact

Q I would like to have a business meeting.

A

Please send us an inquiry form stating “I would like to meet with a sales representative. Our sales staff in the relevant area will contact you.

Contact

Q Do you offer standardized products?

A

We have standardized products for PEEK and TPI in the super engineering plastic ultra-thin tubing series. For EP, CR, silicone rubber foam square and round, and solid rubber tubes, we have molds, but we do not stock products. If you are interested in production, please feel free to contact us using the inquiry form. The Silicone Trim Series, Eco Foam Trim, Eco Trim, and Trim Series are sold as standard products, so please refer to our catalog. We also sell in cut-off quantities.

List of Standards (Silicone Foam, Tube, HOTTY Sponge) (PDF file)
Trim Series (PDF file)
Ultrathin PEEK Tubing Specifications List(PDF file)
Ultrathin TPI Tubing Specifications(PDF file)

Q What information do you need to request a quote?

A

We can provide a rough estimate if you provide us with information on cross-sectional shape, material, hardness, and quantity. Please call us at 03-3614-4100 or use the inquiry form.
Contact

HOTTY sofra®

Q Is it possible to produce colored products?

A

Yes. Please feel free to contact us using the inquiry form.

Contact

Q What is the recommended compression ratio?

A

Basically, performance can be achieved with 25% compression. Although it is possible to compress more than 25%, excessive compression is not recommended as it will result in performance degradation.

Q I would like to know about the physical properties of HOTTY Sofra®.

A

Please download and refer to the physical properties table.

Table of Physical Properties (PDF file)

SUBEUP® (SUBEUP Tube, Photocatalytic SUBEUP)

Q Can SUBEUP processing be performed on all materials?

A

Only TPO (olefinic elastomer) and SBC (styrenic elastomer) are compatible with SUBEUP®. Other materials are not compatible.

Q What kind of technology is SUBEUP®?

A

SUBEUP® is a technology that can improve sliding properties and contamination resistance by coating the surface of TPO (olefinic elastomer) or TPS (styrenic elastomer) with a special lubricating resin in a thin film by simultaneous molding.

HP foam

Q How does it differ from ordinary foams? What are the advantages?

A

HP foam can be used as a substitute for EPDM sponge products commonly used for automobile window frames, etc. It has higher water absorbency and anti-adhesion performance than EPDM.

Q Can SUBEUP processing be performed on all materials?

A

Only TPO (olefinic elastomer) and SBC (styrenic elastomer) are compatible with SUBEUP®. Other materials are not compatible.

Q What kind of technology is SUBEUP®?

A

SUBEUP® is a technology that can improve sliding properties and contamination resistance by coating the surface of TPO (olefinic elastomer) or TPS (styrenic elastomer) with a special lubricating resin in a thin film by simultaneous molding.

HP Barrier

Q What happens if it burns?

A

When burned, the material becomes ceramic while retaining its shape to a certain extent, thus reducing the penetration of flames and smoke even if it burns. It also has low smoke emission, which can reduce the deterioration of visibility due to smoke emission.

HP flock

Q What is the difference between HP flock and electrostatic flocking?

A

The details are a secret, but this is a special technology that considerably shortens the original process. It is environmentally friendly as it eliminates adhesive materials.

Ultrathin engineering plastic tube series

Q What is the minimum diameter possible?

A

For inspection purposes, ID0.2 mm is the minimum.

Q Do you have any standardized products?

A

We have standardized products for PEEK, TPI, and TPX in our engineering plastic ultrathin tubing series, and TPX tubing is available at MonotaRO and Asone. We also accept cut-to-size orders. For other materials, please feel free to contact us using the inquiry form.

MonotaRO:
https://www.monotaro.com/g/04235064/t.q=TPX%E3%83%81%E3%83%A5%E3%83%BC%E3%83%96

Asone:
https://axel.as-1.co.jp/asone/g/NC63-5596-45/

Ultrathin PEEK Tubing Specifications (PDF file)

Ultrathin TPI Tubing Specifications (PDF file)

Ecryca

Q What is the difference between Ecryca and Durabio®?

A

Ecryca is Hotty polymer’s product processed from Mitsubishi Chemical’s DURABIO®. We do not sell raw materials, as Ecryca is a processed product.

Hotty Gel

Q Can double-sided tape or adhesive be used for installation?

A

We are sorry, but adhesives cannot be applied due to material characteristics. Double-sided tape can be applied under certain conditions, so please feel free to contact us using the inquiry form.

Q Do you have standardized products?

A

There are molds for flat plate shapes and round string shapes, depending on the size. If the dimensions match, we can supply the product without the customer having to invest in a die. Also, if the product is in stock, we can cut it to the required length and sell it, so please contact us using the inquiry form.

List of HOTTY Gel Dimensions (PDF file)

Trim Series

Q What is the minimum R for installation?

A

Please refer to the technical information at the end of the booklet version of the Trim Series catalog or from the PDF file below.

Trim Series Technical information (PDF file)

Q Is it possible to change the material?

A

Changing the material is basically impossible.

Q Can you handle colored items?

A

Colored PVC products can be produced, but a minimum lot order is required.

Silicone Trims

Q What is the minimum R for installation?

A

Please refer to the technical information at the end of the booklet version of the Trim Series catalog or from the PDF file below.

Trim Series Technical information (PDF file)

Q Can you handle colored items?

A

Gray and black are available as standard products. Custom colors are also available, but will be quoted based on the quantity you provide, as they are not in stock.

Eco Trim

Q Can you handle colored items?

A

We are sorry, but only standard black products are available.

Nonbee Water expantion

Q It says water expansion, but does it absorb water rapidly?

A

“Nonbee” absorbs water slowly over a certain period of time, so it is impossible for it to absorb water rapidly and expand.

Q Is it possible to change the expansion factor?

A

It can be changed depending on the formulation (from 3 times to about 10 times). Expansion rate is based on volume ratio.

Luminous Silicone

Q What kind of materials can be used for products with light-storing pigments?

A

We can manufacture the product using transparent materials such as silicone rubber, TPO (olefinic elastomer), vinyl chloride, and acrylic elastomer. However, afterglow brightness and other values vary depending on the material. Based on our experience, silicone rubber tends to have better performance. Please consult with us.

We are waiting for technical consultation and sample requests!

Please feel free to contact us for inquiries about our products, technical consultation for rubber/resin extrusion molding, requesting samples of our products, etc.
In addition, this inquiry is for corporations only. Please note that we cannot answer inquiries from individuals.

Inquiries by phone

03-3614-4100

Weekdays 9:00~18:00

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