The key to the development of ‘torc’ was deciding upon the most effective way in which devices could be produced. It was determined that to be able to maintain a high degree of precision repeatability, additive manufacturing would be the way forward.
This would require ‘torc’ material to be made into filament. This was a significant challenge given the base materials involved. However, once the process settings had been determined we are pleased to say that our manufacturer has successfully managed to produce 1.75mm, 2.85mm and 4.00mm diameter high quality filament that we are in the process of branding FlexiTorc and FlexiTorc2 dependent on market sector, whether that be for industry or consumer/hobbyist. Regardless, this will become the most flexible filament available with properties that allow for repeated low melt shaping, moulding or adjustment.
Currently, in conjunction with our filament manufacturer and academic partners at Aston University and The University of Birmingham, we are validating ‘torc’ filament on a range of different manufacturers’ 3D printers. Where validated (four to date) there will be data sheets produced incorporating analysis and specific process settings for the end-user.
Using filament also enables us to design and develop product such as the FlexiWrap where incorporating ‘torc’ material in this format (differing diameters) eliminates the need for additional processes, allows for ease of assembly and ability to replace material if there is a requirement.
The filament is produced from compounded material made to the ‘torc’ specification. Compounded ‘torc’ material will also shortly be under test with Warwick Manufacturing Group (The University of Warwick) on their new direct feed additive manufacturing equipment. WMG had previously tested and validated the compounded ‘torc’ material on a small laboratory modified direct feed FDM system and at the time Dr Zuoxin Zhou (now Research Fellow, Engineering Materials, University of Nottingham) stated that “to be honest it is the most straightforward material I have tried in our equipment”. Now with access to the latest upscaled FDM technology WMG will be proving out the process/material in order to print larger items such as adult sized orthotic devices.
alltorc. info has been set up to introduce the three related companies that use the torc low melt thermoplastic in their products
The material comes under the torc2 Ltd’s patent which, in recognition of the unique qualities of the material, on 11th November 2020, was granted European Patent No. 3107507 – Thermoplastic Article.
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