3D Systems and TE Connectivity, a global leader in connectors and sensors, today announced their collaboration to develop an additive manufacturing solution for electrical connectors that exceed UL regulatory criteria. 3D Systems’ Figure 4® Modular, Figure 4 material, 3D Sprint® software, and services met TE Connectivity’s specific material performance and high-tolerance, dependable printing needs. The solution is based on a photopolymer 3D Systems created for TE Connectivity.

It is the first printable photopolymer to undergo UL®1-recognized long-term thermal ageing (RTI). TE Connectivity devices require reliability and accuracy, which this material and optimised print process provide. 3D Systems’ Figure 4 technology’s novel material qualities, speed, and precision enable the first tough industrial solutions for appliances, cellular, and data-center applications.

Additive manufacturing allows TE Connectivity to develop complicated geometries that injection moulding cannot. It improves flexibility for low-volume, quick-turn production runs and tooling avoidance, allowing TE to demonstrate its capabilities and clients to satisfy demand faster.TE Connectivity and 3D Systems’ Application Innovation Group (AIG) developed a full production pipeline from design to connector.