ZPrinter
®
650 Hardware Manual
Post-Processing With Z-Bond
zcentral.zcorp.com
46
All Rights Reserved
10/21/08
4 Post-Processing With Z-Bond
This section describes post-processing a part using Z-Bond™ Instant Infiltrant. The infiltrant soaks into the
newly-printed part and bonds the printed powder together. This both strengthens the part and creates more
vibrant colors.
Z-Bond is available in larger bottles for use in the
dipping
method. For parts with
delicate features, smaller bottles of Z-Bond are available for
drizzling
onto a part.
Note:
At this time, Z-Bond 90 and Z-Bond 101 are the only infiltrants approved for
use inside the PPU of the ZPrinter 650.
We’re always testing new materials and combinations, so check our Web site for
the latest complete information regarding post-processing materials, techniques,
Best Practices, and material storage guidelines. All this information, plus shop-
ping for consumables, is at
zcentral.zcorp.com
.
Safety Precautions
•
Read and understand the
Material Safety Data Sheet
before using or handling this product.
•
Wear a lab coat or smock, gloves, face shield, or goggles.
•
Apply in a well-ventilated area or inside the Post-Processing Unit.
•
Specialized containers are recommended for applying Z-Bond. Have a catch pan, waxed paper, or
plastic drop cloth available for catching spills.
•
Label disposal materials and dispose of according to the label instructions.
•
Wear a dust mask when sanding finished parts.
•
Z-Bond reacts with water and ambient moisture. Once a bottle has been opened, it is recom-
mended that the product be used within 30 days. Avoid all contact with water and avoid use under
high humidity conditions. If Z-Bond is exposed to excessive humidity, it will thicken up and become
unusable for infiltration.
•
Store Z-Bond in a cool, dry area.
4.1 Preparation
We recommend using the Post-Processing Unit to infiltrate your part. Before you begin infiltrating your
part, make sure the part is completely free of powder. See
Section 2.16, ’Fine Powder Removal’
. Follow
these preparation guidelines:
•
Wear a lab coat or smock, safety glasses, and a pair of the high quality gloves from the Startup Kit
(or 2 pairs of lightweight disposable gloves).
•
Place a piece of wax paper over the metal Post-Processing Tray to keep it clean.
•
Use a dipping container large enough to fully submerge your part.
•
Have paper towels ready for absorbing excess fluid.
•
Ensure the part is completely dry before applying Z-Bond.
In addition, if you are not using the Post-Processing Unit, we recommend the following:
•
Work in a well-ventilated area.
•
Place a piece of cardboard down in your work area and place a piece of wax paper over the card-
board for the part to dry on.
Z Corporation also offers a
Z-Bond 101 Dipping Kit
, which contains all the supplies needed for post-pro-
cessing. The Kit provides a convenient and cost-effective way to get everything you need.
Please visit our Web site for more information or to purchase your supplies:
zcentral.zcorp.com
