EVOLV3D™ USM overcomes the limitations of other dedicated 3D printer support materials through its compatibility with a broad array of popular build materials, a broader print temperature range, easy removal through tap water dissolution at room temperature, and safer disposal of the solution. Unlike other disolvable support materials, EVOLV3D™ sticks to Nylon, ABS, PLA, PETG, TPU, TPE and LSR (silicons) filaments. These features significantly increase the applications for 3d printers to build complex and functional parts with an array of materials that may have previously been impossible. 3D printing is often done outside of industrial settings (homes and offices) by users who may not have chemical handling training. As a non-hazardous material that does not use harsh reagents or generate harmful waste, EVOLV3D™ USM reduces handling concerns and meets environmental requirements.
NOTE: As Evolv3D™ is a lighter weight material than most common filaments, it is sold in "equivalent feet" and or grams. For a 1lb spool of 1.75mm, most materials contain ~480 feet and the equivalent spool of Evolve3D will also be ~ 480 feet.
EVOLV3D™ Universal Support Material (USM) has a high affinity to water, allowing it to easily dissolve in tap water after printing. However, this also means the filament is susceptible to absorbing humidity from the air when stored. Below are some best practices to help maintain the product’s performance over its lifetime.
In high-humidity environments, EVOLV3D USM may pick up moisture from the air, which can cause issues during the printing process. The filament comes with moisture-barrier packaging to prevent this during transportation. Once the package is opened, store EVOLV3D USM spools in air-tight containers with multiple desiccant packets to maintain a low-humidity environment.
When EVOLV3D USM has been exposed to high humidity, drying it before printing is highly recommended. For best result we recommend the using a dedicated dehydrator like the PrintDry filament dryer. Alternatively, the filament can be dried at room temperature by placing it in an airtight container along with multiple desiccant packets or by placing the EVOLV3D USM in a heat-resistant container with multiple desiccant packets and placing the container in an oven heated to 50°C for approximately 2 hours.
For best results when using EVOLV3D USM, especially on long duration prints, a continuous feed-drying device such as the PrintDry filament dryer is recommended to help keep the filament dry during the printing process.