What is DuraForm® PAx?

Written By Mike Larkin

The Game-Changing Nylon for SLS 3D Printing

DuraForm PAx is a nylon-based material, similar to injection molded polypropylene, developed for SLS 3D printing that delivers exceptional toughness, high impact strength, and elongation — characteristics that rival or even exceed traditional molded plastics.

Created by 3D Systems, PAx is engineered to combine the best properties of PA11 and PA12 while also reducing costs and improving sustainability. It’s ideal for both prototyping and direct end-use parts, particularly when long-term durability and performance are required.

Key Features and Benefits

✅ Superior Toughness

DuraForm PAx offers elongation at break above 25%, meaning it can flex and absorb impacts better than many conventional nylons. It behaves more like molded polypropylene or ABS than traditional PA12.

✅ Excellent Thermal Resistance

Parts made from PAx can withstand long-term temperatures up to 120°C, making it suitable for under-the-hood automotive, tooling, and electrical housings.

✅ Low Warping and Shrinkage

The material exhibits low internal stress, minimizing warping and making it easier to produce large or thin-walled parts with reliable dimensional accuracy.

✅ Enhanced Surface Finish

It produces parts with a smooth, matte surface that is easy to dye, paint, or post-process. It’s well-suited for visible parts in consumer products and medical devices.

✅ Sustainable and Recyclable

DuraForm PAx is designed for high recyclability with refresh rates as low as 30%, reducing material waste and cost per part over time.

Ideal Applications

DuraForm PAx is particularly valuable in industries where performance and mechanical behavior matter:

  • Automotive: Functional brackets, housings, and ducting

  • Consumer Electronics: Enclosures and structural parts

  • Medical Devices: Patient-specific tools and casings (non-implant)

  • Manufacturing Aids: Jigs, fixtures, and snap-fit tooling

  • Prosthetics & Orthotics: Lightweight and durable wearable components

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a material that bridges the gap between prototyping and production, DuraForm PAx offers a compelling blend of mechanical strength, heat resistance, and surface finish — all at a cost-effective price point. It’s a material designed not just for the future of 3D printing but for the present needs of real-world, functional manufacturing.

If you are interested in exploring this material contact us at info@ult3d.com or call 503-848-8227 we will be glad to discuss your project with you.

Mike Larkin
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