Accuracy and validation

What does NoviPath predict?

NoviPath performs linear static and failure analysis, predicting deformation, stress distribution, failure load and location, and safety factor.

How accurate is NoviPath, and what validation supports it?

NoviPath is calibrated and stress-tested against a systematic in-house test campaign that spans both specimen-level and part-level tests. At the specimen level, the program follows standard ASTM methods, tension (ASTM D638), V-notched rail shear (ASTM D7078), compression (ASTM D695), and open-hole tension (ASTM D5766 geometry family), across build orientations, raster angles, and contour counts, on three materials (Nylon 12CF, Antero 800NA, ULTEM 9085). Part-level tests on multi-feature components close the loop, checking that predictions made from coupon-calibrated material cards hold when toolpaths change in real-world applications. Contact us at info@novineer.com and we will share case studies.

What specific properties have you measured for each individual material?

For every material and build configuration, we measured the full orthotropic property set: three Young’s moduli, three Poisson’s ratios, three shear moduli, and tensile, compressive, and shear strengths in all three principal directions. But the program went beyond material characterization. Its second objective was validation: testing various filament pattern and build orientation at the coupon level to confirm that measured behavior matched NoviPath’s toolpath-based predictions before moving on to part-level testing.

Does NoviPath replace coupon or part testing?

No, it reduces the number of tests you need. In the conceptual and preliminary design stages, NoviPath gives you the information to converge on a design without printing and breaking hardware; testing remains for final design verification.

How does NoviPath work with my existing FEA tools?

NoviPath generates the anisotropic, toolpath-aware material definitions your solver consumes, so while NoviPath can perform simulation if you prefer or are required to keep your existing analysis workflow, you can utilize the .bdf file generated by NoviPath to perform simulation on MSC Nastran.

What other mechanical functionality can NoviPath perform, and what are its limitations?

Currently, static and failure analysis. Free vibration and buckling are the leading candidates for our next development stage. We do not currently plan thermo-mechanical analysis, since it requires material cards at multiple temperatures, and NoviPath does not perform AM process simulation such as residual-stress prediction.

Does NoviPath work across different infill densities?

Currently 100% infill only. Material testing for additional infill densities is part of our next development stage.

Stratasys ULTEM 9085 is available in several colors and variations. Do the colored variants behave the same as natural ULTEM 9085? Is Ultem 9085 CG material properties included?

NoviPath is calibrated and validated for ULTEM 9085 in its natural color. The pigments and additives used to color the filament can alter material properties enough that the mechanical behavior of colored variants may differ from natural ULTEM 9085. Based on our understanding of Ultem 9085CG (certified grade for high-performance applications such aerospace) results are superior to Ultem 9085.

Contact Novineer (info@novineer.com) and/or your Stratasys representative to help evaluate your specific material.