Printing Onyx ESD

Onyx ESD is a static-dissipative variant of Onyx for additive manufacturing using the FDM process. A specifically tuned carbon black loading keeps the surface resistance reliably within the dissipative range of 10⁵ to 10⁷ Ω (tested per ANSI/ESD STM11.113), protecting electronic components from uncontrolled electrostatic discharge.

Onyx ESD is built up additively, layer by layer, from filament using the FDM process, in the same way as standard Onyx. The dissipative surface resistance depends on print orientation and layer build-up for the specific part and is verified for the intended application. Being a hygroscopic nylon, the filament is stored dry.

Onyx ESD is a good fit for ESD protective fixtures, component carriers in electronics manufacturing, gripper and handling components in robotics, and test and inspection fixtures – wherever electrostatically sensitive assemblies must be protected from uncontrolled discharge while the material also needs to withstand mechanical loads.

Part price is mainly determined by part volume, print time, infill density, post-processing effort and batch size. Onyx ESD is priced above standard Onyx due to the special carbon black loading. We are happy to quote binding prices on request based on your 3D model.

Where no electrostatic dissipation is required, the less expensive standard Onyx is usually sufficient. Onyx ESD is not intended for food contact. Where fire classification is required, Onyx FR is the more suitable choice.

An honest assessment. Advantages: static-dissipative with tightly controlled surface resistance (10⁵ … 10⁷ Ω), higher stiffness and strength than standard Onyx, very good surface finish. Disadvantages: hygroscopic – requires dry storage, surface resistance varies with humidity and print orientation, not intended for food contact, higher material cost than standard Onyx.