Hello, first of all, your careful approach is very correct. Yes, the Shore A value you obtain with layered manufacturing can be different from the value you will obtain in injection molding.

This situation depends on several factors:

• Fill Rate: The fill rate you use in the 3D printer significantly affects the mechanical properties of the print material and thus the Shore value. In injection molding, the material will be completely full.
• Filament Quality: The chemical compositions of the 3D printer and filament you use can differ from the ABS granules to be used in injection molding. This can affect the Shore values.
• Printer Settings: 3D printer settings such as print temperature, cooling speed can also change the Shore value of the final product.

What can you do?

• Define Shore Value Range: Clarify the Shore A value you aim for in injection molding (e.g., 87-90).
  3D Print Optimization: Optimize 3D print settings by testing with different fill rates. If possible, try to choose a filament close to the ABS granules to be used in injection molding.
  Prototype Tests: Test the prototypes you obtain both in terms of mechanical durability and flexibility.
  If you can't reach the exact Shore value you want in the first try, you can improve settings by repeating these steps.
• Material Optimization for Injection Molding: If you plan to use different materials in mass production and prototyping, you can work on material selection and production parameters together with your injection molding manufacturer. In this way, the most suitable material and production conditions to reach the Shore value range you aim for can be determined.

In addition, the Xometry engineering team can offer you more detailed project analysis and material suggestions.
If you wish, you can upload your model to Instant Price Engine or you can email us at info@xometry.com.tr for more comprehensive information.