What Is Creep? Understanding the Phenomenon and Its Implications

Definition

Creep is the tendency of a solid material to slowly move or deform permanently under the influence of mechanical stresses. It occurs over time when a material is subjected to a constant load or stress, especially at high temperatures. This phenomenon is particularly relevant in materials that are used in high-stress applications, such as metals, polymers, and ceramics.

Explain Creep like I’m 5

Imagine you have a piece of soft clay, and you put a heavy book on it. At first, the clay stays the same, but if you leave the book there for a long time, the clay starts to squish and spread out slowly. That’s what happens to some materials when they are under pressure for a long time—they slowly change shape.

Why does this matter?

Understanding creep is crucial in additive manufacturing because it affects the long-term performance and reliability of 3D printed parts. Materials that are prone to creep may not be suitable for applications where they will be under constant stress or high temperatures. This is especially important for industries like aerospace, automotive, and medical devices, where the integrity of the part over time is critical.

Real Talk

Creep can be a significant limitation for certain 3D printed materials, particularly those used in high-stress or high-temperature environments. While some advanced materials like polySpectra’s COR resins are designed to minimize creep, it’s still a factor that engineers and designers need to consider. Ignoring creep can lead to part failure, which can be costly and dangerous. So, while 3D printing offers incredible design flexibility and rapid prototyping, it’s essential to choose the right material for the job to ensure long-term durability and performance.