Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the use of acetone for smoothing 3D prints, particularly in the context of creating injection molds. Participants explore the effectiveness of acetone on different materials, safety concerns, and alternative solvents.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Joe expresses concern about the effectiveness of acetone on concave features of his 3D printed models and inquires about possible dilutions or cycling pure acetone through the injection system.
- One participant questions the choice of material for injection molding, suggesting that thin-walled plastics may not be suitable due to high pressures.
- Joe clarifies that he is currently using PLA and plans to use ABS and nylon in the future, noting that he uses thick walls for injection molding.
- A participant warns about the flammability and explosive nature of acetone vapor, recommending a safer solvent instead.
- Joe acknowledges the warning but points out the prevalence of acetone tutorials, questioning why safety concerns are not more commonly addressed.
- Another participant humorously notes the importance of retaining members and their parts in the context of safety.
- A participant provides a comparison of acetone's flammability relative to gasoline and pure ethanol, leaving the interpretation of this information open-ended.
- One participant asserts that acetone does not dissolve PLA, indicating that the smoothing technique is primarily applicable to ABS and suggesting alternative solvents like THF or dichloromethane for PLA.
- Concave surfaces or cavities are mentioned as not being a concern for the smoothing technique, as it involves vapor rather than immersion in liquid solvent.
- Safety risks associated with heating volatile solvents outside of a fume hood are highlighted, emphasizing the need for caution.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of acetone for smoothing PLA, with some asserting it is ineffective while others discuss its common use for ABS. Safety concerns regarding the use of acetone are also debated, with no consensus on the best approach to solvent use.
Contextual Notes
The discussion includes varying assumptions about material properties and safety practices, with some participants relying on anecdotal evidence from tutorials while others emphasize the need for caution and alternative approaches.
