Oct. 23, 2014

When using a FDM 3D printer like the RepRap or Makerbot, prints that span a large area tend to warp, potentially ruining a print. There are different methods to avoid warping on large 3D prints, such as using a heated build platform, getting the right build surface, printing with a raft etc.

For example Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) must be printed on a prepared surface for correct adhesion. A common surface treatment includes applying polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film orKapton tape to a glass plate and treating the surface with a slurry of dissolved ABS and acetone. But after several uses, the film may become damaged, which results in the parts becoming difficult to remove, or lifting off the film.

Airwolf 3D, Costa Mesa, California-based desktop 3D printer manufacturer today announced Wolfbite, a new premium solution specially engineered to bond ABS plastic parts to a heated 3D printer build plate without lifting, and to enable smooth release of objects after printing.

Wolfbite is applied with an applicator brush straight onto the glass, eliminating the need for PET film or Kapton tape. One light coat ofWolfbite can be used for several prints. After applying Wolfbite, the glass is heated and ABS parts stick firmly to the glass withoutwarpage. Airwolf 3D specially formulated the proprietary solution to not only promote excellent adhesion but also to make part removal easy. Once the 3D printed parts have cooled, they will dismount from the printing surface with minimal effort, leaving a clean and smooth bottom surface.

"As manufacturers of 3D printers that are capable of printing large parts in ABS we are aware of the frustrations that warpage and sticking present," said Erick Wolf, founder and chairman, Airwolf 3D. "After months of research and development, we're pleased to be able to offer an industry-changing solution that will benefit all 3D printer users."

Wolfbite is packaged in a two fluid ounce container and comes with a foam brush applicator. It is currently available for presale on theAirwolf website at an introductory price of $19.99. Airwolf 3D will be demonstrating Wolfbite at the Inside 3D Printing Conference and Expo in Santa Clara California now through Oct. 23.

"Wolfbite is for anyone who is 3D printing in ABS," said Mark Mathews, president, Airwolf 3D. "It's easy to apply, low odor and long-lasting. Users will see a notable difference in the output of their 3D printed projects when using Wolfbite."


Posted in 3D Printer Accessories

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Tim wrote at 2/11/2018 10:28:44 AM:

Glass Build Plate Wizard releases the prints real easy without lumps of glass.

Kelly wrote at 12/8/2014 2:37:02 AM:

Well, I have been paying attention to the first layer and making sure it isn't squished down too much and then this stuff works fantastic. I completely retract my post of 11/22. This stuff is really great. Glass + this stuff is what I am using now.

Kelly wrote at 11/25/2014 7:38:27 AM:

I am still trying using it. When it works, it really works well. I think you don't want your first layer too squashed and I have diluted it. If it grips too much, it can break your glass. I have been playing with my z-axis at the start of print so that it isn't too squished and then it releases.

Kelly wrote at 11/22/2014 4:14:03 AM:

Unfortunately, you do not want to use this stuff if you value your build plates. This stuff does stick well but it will pull big chunks of glass out of your expensive borosilicate build plate as it cools. It killed both of my 1/8" plates so I went to a 1/4" tempered glass plate. I did a large mass print with 100% infil and as it cooled, it tore up a huge percentage of the plate. I am going back to PET tape and purple glue stick.

HVogel wrote at 11/21/2014 11:45:08 PM:

Just bought a bottle and It works great. Slightly better than the hair spray trick. Very pleased!

Kelly wrote at 11/14/2014 7:49:56 AM:

Reggie wrote: "We tried it and it does not work. Could have a ABS material type dependency. Save your money..." Wow, I have been using this for a few days now. You really need to try this again and see if you can find something wrong with your setup because this works exactly as they say. I have been getting the best prints I have ever gotten with this stuff. It is better than purple glue stick and PET tape (which works pretty damned good). Bed leveling is even more critical than with the glue stick and PET. I use the leveling wizard in Simplify3D (that is such a great program). That lets me dial it right in. This stuff hangs on to the print with no warping whatsoever and releases completely when it cools. The bottom of the object is so shiny you can see your reflection in it! The wolfbite stuff stays stuck to the print bed ready for the next use. I haven't had to reapply yet. I have did some overnight prints and it just does not let go of the object while it is hot. I have tried PVA glue on glass before and either it seems to let go on me after a while or you need a jack hammer to get the part off. This stuff doesn't have that problem. I bought 2 bottles of the stuff at the $20 intro price as I have to pay $10 shipping and sales tax (as I am in CA), I figured it was worth the gamble to buy two bottles just in case this stuff actually worked. It takes so little of the stuff to cover my print bed, I probably will never get to the second bottle. I have quite a few sheets of PET tape that I guess I will use for Poly Carb. if this stuff doesn't work with Poly. I have that stuff stuck to the other side of my glass so it is available regardless. Poly really tears up the PET tape. It would be really awesome if this stuff works with Poly. Have to try that soon.

Kelly wrote at 11/12/2014 3:32:50 AM:

I just got mine today and on my second print. I would say the stuff works as advertised. Bed leveling and first layer being squished is critical but it sticks and stays stuck until cool. I did clean my glass with Acetone and then Vinegar first. I think you can't have any crap on the glass or it won't work at all. Neither will anything else.

Reggie wrote at 11/10/2014 8:35:54 PM:

We tried it and it does not work. Could have a ABS material type dependency. Save your money...

Reggie wrote at 11/10/2014 8:34:40 PM:

We tried it and it does not work. Could have a ABS material type dependency. Save your money...

Anon wrote at 10/25/2014 9:08:48 PM:

Haha or use the PVA without dilution and have it stick so well that bits of glass come of with the print xD

Leon wrote at 10/23/2014 3:26:11 PM:

OR you just use with water diluted PVA glue. Cost almost nothing.



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