--- title: SIL 30 slug: materials/sil-30 description: Discover the benefits and limitations of Carbon's SIL 30, a versatile silicone urethane material designed for comfortable wearables. Learn essential tips, including adjustments for feature sizes and strategies for optimal print quality. docTags: createdAt: 2024-06-28T18:33:59.558Z --- # Overview ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Soft touch, biocompatible, and tear resistant** SIL 30 is a silicone urethane. It is the first additive material to offer a unique combination of biocompatibility, low durometer, and tear-resistance. This material opens up the ability to print customized applications for comfortable skin contact products such as headphones, wristbands, and various attachments for wearables. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::Image[]{src="https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/_DSC3297_SIL30_watchband-edited.png" size="90" width="900" height="900" position="center" alt="SIL 30 Example" showCaption="false"} ::: :::: # Resource Links ::::LinkArray{contentSource="CUSTOM"} :::LinkArrayItem{headerType="IMAGE" headerImage="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/dptYqcTHPbVZhe3zuNg4v-yZnHZ5VDqzKJosZJznLXm-20241119-021407.png"} [About the Material ](https://www.carbon3d.com/materials/sil-30)Material overview and uses cases ::: :::LinkArrayItem{headerType="IMAGE" headerImage="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/meEa1m4VN4HOvIJpjIIld-20251016-220433.jpg"} [Technical Data Sheet ](https://docs.carbon3d.com/files/technical-data-sheets/tds_carbon_sil-30.pdf)Mechanical properties and data ::: :::LinkArrayItem{headerType="IMAGE" headerImage="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/3CesIL2dYMCHPZvRjp8S0/1r3fpdvMUMFVZGfey2Tjn-20251016-221405.jpg"} [Safety Data Sheet](https://www.carbon3d.com/stewardship) *Login required* ::: :::: # Protocol Sheet This downloadable handout provides important usage information, including instructions about compatible hardware, storage, resin dispensing, washing and curing. Print it out and bring it into the lab. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **English** ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/uXbZOKjJTGpPhjapQ8fvM-CSiRZqUGwHd0IqE5CLHqj-20250521-224003.pdf" label="SIL 30 Protocol v0511.pdf"} ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **German/Deutsch** ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/dptYqcTHPbVZhe3zuNg4v-bUW_EHuTHQmayhzhn6Hfe-20241125-230650.pdf" label="SIL 30 Protocol v0404_German-Deutsch.pdf"} ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Spanish/Español ** ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/dptYqcTHPbVZhe3zuNg4v-XC-mfoxoFf5fQ1VBds3bf-20241125-230707.pdf" label="SIL 30 Protocol v0404_Spanish-Espanol.pdf"} ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Japanese/日本語** ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::File{src="https://api.archbee.com/api/presign/dptYqcTHPbVZhe3zuNg4v-wlllqL7ETIdBY2sMVYfZC-20241125-230719.pdf" label="SIL 30 Protocol v0202_Japanese-日本語.pdf"} ::: :::: # Design Guidelines ## Overcure and Cure-Through SIL 30 is ideal for skin contact applications, in part, because of silicone's unique breathability with oxygen. While this provides an exceptional benefit in wearable technology, SIL 30 reacts to the [UV light and oxygen](docId\:U7XYytjyDp3BvsYy2qKcU) in the DLS printing process with greater susceptibility to [overcure and cure-through](docId\:t94PR-A-C0pIhY6LJsWk7). The benefit this gives SIL 30 is an exceptionally smooth surface finish and soft features that can be well suited to a wearable application. The downside is when accuracy of small features or legibility of text is important. ### Holes Small features can be challenging in SIL 30, and is especially apparent with regular shapes and repeating features. Excess curing can range from **0.3 - 0.5 mm**, whereas other materials average feature size variation around 0.1 mm. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ![Repetitive Small Features](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/variation_part-example.png) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem **Design Mitigations** - Provide greater compensation for overcure and cure-through by making features** larger **(by 0.3 - 0.5 mm) - Reassess your **tolerances** and provide a wider range where feasible - Use **organically shaped** features with less repetition ::: :::: ![LEFT: SIL 30 features 0.3 mm smaller | RIGHT: EPU 40 features 0.1 mm smaller](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/variation_SIL-EPU.png "LEFT: SIL 30 features 0.3 mm smaller | RIGHT: EPU 40 features 0.1 mm smaller") ### Text SIL 30 will resolve small details with softer edges, which can make small embossed or engraved text more difficult to read. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem Embossed text printed in **SIL 30** ![SIL 30 2.7 mm tall text](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/Overcure_text_SIL-30_AB.png "2.7 mm tall text") ::: :::VerticalSplitItem Embossed text printed in **a rigid resin** ![Rigid resin 2.7 mm tall text](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/Overcure_text_PR-25_AB.png "2.7 mm tall text") ::: :::: ## Lattices [Lattices](docId:6-kC-BOB7NDBPNaw7DU3i) make great performative parts with elastomeric materials while also reducing print times, consuming less resin, and creating unique parts only made possible with additive manufacturing. **Challenges with SIL 30 Lattices** - Accuracy variation due to small features (see above) - Difficulty washing due to resin entrapment - Structural fragility in green state (before thermal curing) **Design Mitigations** ::::VerticalSplit{layout="left"} :::VerticalSplitItem Design lattices with [larger cell sizes](docId\:f-f8ROxDabcRrBEUDh6Q1) than standard guidelines to promote better solvent flow for easier washing. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![SIL 30 lattice with a small cell size](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/lattice_clogged_02_AB.png "SIL 30 lattice with a small cell size") ::: :::: *** ::::VerticalSplit{layout="left"} :::VerticalSplitItem [Use thicker struts](docId\:f-f8ROxDabcRrBEUDh6Q1) than other resins to avoid [strut breakage](docId\:oJz-12lSnz1_5bo4GyW06) during processing. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![SIL 30 lattice with broken struts](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/lattice_tear_02_AB.png "SIL 30 lattice with broken struts") ::: :::: *** ::::VerticalSplit{layout="left"} :::VerticalSplitItem Reassess whether a lattice or SIL 30 is the best choice for your application. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Non-latticed handle parts in SIL 30](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/Thick-walled-SIL-instead-of-lattice_edited.png "Non-latticed handle parts in SIL 30") ::: :::: ## # Print Prep Considerations ## Flow Line Discoloration Large cross sections parallel to the build platform can show [medial axis flow lines](docId\:DoBa4qKKoXpi-52yw3nCr) across the surface. This is strictly a cosmetic issue that results from fluid dynamics during printing. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="left"} :::VerticalSplitItem SIL 30's flow lines appear as a yellowish discoloration on the otherwise gray surface. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ::Image[]{src="https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/SIL-30-Flow-lines.png" size="80" width="1300" height="900" position="center" alt="SIL 30 medial axis flow lines" showCaption="false"} ::: :::: Orient parts to minimizing surfaces parallel to the build platform to avoid flow lines. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Flow Lines Maximized** Part oriented horizontally to minimze print time creates a large cross section in the last slice that will lead to visible flow lines. ![Flow Lines Maximized](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/Flow_lines_bad-example.png) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem **Flow Lines Minimized** Part oriented vertically greatly reduces the cross section in the last slice, which will minimize visible flow lines. ![Flow Lines Minimized](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/Flow_lines_good-example.png "Supports not shown") ::: :::: ## Green State Stiffness ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem SIL 30 is great at printing a wider range of geometries than most elastomeric offerings because of increased stiffness during printing. By printing in a stiff green state, SIL 30 can minimize or eliminate the use of supports that may be needed in other elastomers. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![SIL 30 example without supports](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/sil-30-main-banner-edited.png "SIL 30 example without supports") ::: :::: :::hint{type="info"} SIL 30 is very flexible after thermal curing, losing the green state stiffness. ::: ### Tips from the Experts When supports are needed, use fence over bar supports (where geometry allows) to minimize tearing when removing supports before curing. # Dispensing Considerations ## Burn Off Every Dispense Unlike other Carbon 2-part resins, SIL 30 requires a **burn off step with every dispense**, not just with a new cartridge. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem The viscosity difference between the two components of SIL 30 is exceptional and the plunger for the **thinner Part B (clear)** component always begins moving before the **thicker Part A (gray)** component. The clear Part B component therefore gets a head start in the mixing tip. By burning off the first 10 ml of resin in a disposable foil cup, you ensure that all of the unmixed Part B is not used in the print. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Part B in mixing tip before Part A](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/Part_A_Part_B.png) ::: :::: :::hint{type="warning"} Resin that is not mixed properly will likely result in print defects and compromised material properties. ::: ## Dispenser Specific Guidelines ### Albion Dispenser (Retired) If you are using the **Albion Dispenser**, **pre-heating** the resin cartridge at **60°C** for **30-60 minutes** is recommended. The pre-heating will facilitate resin flow with a reduction in viscosity. ### Cox Single-Drive Dispenser (Retired) If using the Cox Single-Drive Dispenser, SIL 30 may experience a mixing issue due to the difference in the two plunger rails. The upper rail is weaker and struggles with the thick viscosity of the Part A component of SIL 30. :::hint{type="info"} The **Cox Dual-Drive Dispenser** and **Albion Dispenser (retired)** *do not* have this issue. ::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Normal Dispense** After following the standard burn off step, a normal dispense will appear smooth and consistent. ![Normal SIL 30 dispense](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/csd_good_dispense.png) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem **Abnormal Dispense** The dispensed resin will appear inconsistent: areas of Part A and Part B unmixed are visible. ![Abnormal SIL 30 dispense](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/csd_bad_dispense.png) ::: :::: ***During an Abnormal Dispense*** ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Bowing upper rail** When the thicker Part A component is aligned with the weaker upper rail, movement is inhibited and the upper rail bows while the lower rail moves forward. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Upper rail bowing with Part A](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/csd_top_rail.png) ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Part B** Thin and clear, the part B has little resistance and comes out of the mixing tip first (even after a burn off). ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Part B comes out first](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/csd_part_b.png) ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Misaligned plungers in cartridge** With this restriction in movement, the plungers in the cartridge end up misaligned. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Plungers misaligned](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/csd_misaligned.png) ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Part A** When the stress of the upper rail builds up too much, then the Part A, thick and gray, overtakes the dispense. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Part A overtaking dispense](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/csd_part_a.png) ::: :::: ***Preventing an Abnormal Dispense*** ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem Use a **fully charged battery** ![Cox single drive charged battery](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/Cox-s_battery.jpg) ::: :::VerticalSplitItem Verify the **correct speed setting** ![Cox single drive speed for SIL 30](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/Cox-s_speed.jpg) ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="left"} :::VerticalSplitItem Load the dispenser with **Part B**, thin and clear, in the **upper position** with the weaker rail, and Part A, thick and gray, in the lower position with the stronger rail. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Part B on top rail](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/sil_part_positions.png) ::: :::: ## Fixing an Abnormal Dispense - **Dispense the full cartridge**. - **Stir resin **until all visual marbling and areas of thick resin are smoothly mixed. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem ![Visual marbling](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/_DSC6498_edited.png "Visual marbling") ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Thick resin](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/v1732679944/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/_DSC6503_edited.png "Thick resin") ::: :::: # Post-Processing Tips ## Part Removal from Platform with Release Film [Release Film](docId\:YRnQPLrG4yMFcK1m5tCCv) is recommended with SIL 30 due to its fragile green state. Because of this, parts are easily damaged during removal from the platform. Release film provides lower part adhesion than the platform, so parts can be removed with less force. Depending on part size and geometry, parts printed on release film can be removed from the platform with a couple methods. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Peeling Method** Pull up the film with the parts on them\* and then remove the film from the parts with minimal handling by peeling it off. \*You can squirt a small amount of IPA between the film and platform to make removal of the film easier. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Peeling method](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/Release-film-peel.png) ::: :::: ::::VerticalSplit{layout="middle"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Scraper Method** Use the scraper to detach parts from the film. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Scraper method](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/_DSC4730_SIL30_scraping_parts_off_film.png) ::: :::: ## Removing Supports **An optimal SIL 30 part is self-supporting**. If your part is printed on supports, tearing them off is not recommended. Use a tool either before or after baking. ::::VerticalSplit{layout="left"} :::VerticalSplitItem **Before** In the green state, remove the supports with a **small blade** to avoid damaging the part. **After** Remove the supports after baking with **flush cutters**. Note that surface finish at cut surfaces will vary. ::: :::VerticalSplitItem ![Use tools to remove supports](https://res.cloudinary.com/carbon3d/image/upload/Education/Materials/elastomer/SIL-30/supports-removal.png) ::: ::::