Re-imagining Heat Regulation Systems

Testing Without Limitations

Researchers at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University have embarked on an ambitious project – creating a self-contained, cost-effective, 3D printable heat sink by combining phase-change materials with plastics. The Composer Filament Maker is taking them closer to making that vision a reality.

To realize their vision of developing 3D printable heat sinks, Embry-Riddle researchers needed PCM-based filament that could hold a stable shape. They tried creating PCM-plastic composites using a filament extruder from a leading desktop extrusion company. But this machine could only let them achieve 20% PCM in their filament. It also did not offer the quality or customizability they needed.

After considering all available alternatives, the researchers picked the 3devo Composer Filament Maker for several reasons. Firstly, it let them produce high-quality filament with excellent diameter control, even when working with non-typical materials. It also enabled experimentation with different PCM ratios and a variety of plastics. Further, it was the most cost-effective option available, meeting all their requirements without the need for any add-ons.

Helping Embry-Riddle researchers develop new-age heat sinks

• High-quality filament with 3X higher PCM levels than before
  The Composer Filament Maker has already produced PCM-HDPE filament with 60% PCM. This is 3 times higher than what their previous extruder allowed.
• Flexibility to adjust settings when working with non-typical materials
  Unlike their previous filament extruder, the Composer Filament Maker allows the researchers to quickly adjust the temperature, diameter, fan, and extruder RPM settings.
• All-in-one solution for production and experimentation
  Besides improving their filament quality, the researchers are using the Composer Filament Maker to mix PCM with new plastics and to explore other innovative concepts in cooling system design.
• High performance at an affordable price
  With its superior filament quality, customization options, and affordable price, the Composer Filament Maker has proved to be an excellent value addition to the research facility.