3D Systems TCT Show 2019
3D Systems has today unveiled its latest Figure 4 materials designed for the production of plastic parts without the need for tooling.
Announced during TCT Show, Figure 4 Production Black 10 is an advanced photopolymer material, the company’s first 3D printable photopolymer to exhibit thermoplastic behaviours.
3D Systems says the material works with a simple isopropyl alcohol (IPA) wash and does not require a secondary thermal post-cure process, which significantly improves throughput yield and reduces extensive solvent cleaning cycles needed with other technologies. Customer tests show the material is allowing parts to be delivered up to four times faster compared to existing 3D printing methodologies.
Chris Nicoll, Prototype Lab Manager at D&K Engineering has been using the material lab to produce complex, fine detailed parts without tooling.
Nicoll commented: "We created several threaded parts in the same print with a variety of dimensions and each one is perfect. The quality is just outstanding. I'm excited about how the new Figure 4 production black material along with our Figure 4 Modular printer will help us provide production parts to our customers more quickly. With the enhanced speed, we'll also be able to take on more projects, which will help us grow our business."
3D Systems has also announced an additional four Figure 4 materials this week including: Figure 4 EGGSHELL-AMB 10 for the production of sacrificial tooling for casting true silicone components
Figure 4 HI TEMP 300-AMB, an ultra-high temperature (300 Celsius) rigid plastic suitable for production applications such as high temperature component testing and stators and motor enclosures
Figure 4 FLEX-BLK 20, a durable, flexible, high impact, fatigue resistant material with long term environmental stability for functional assemblies and prototypes
Figure 4 RUBBER-BLK 10, a high-tear strength, malleable, material designed for prototyping hard, rubber-like parts such as grips, handles and couplings.
"Through collaboration with its customers, 3D Systems continues to innovate, and rethink manufacturing," said Menno Ellis, senior vice president and general manager, plastics, 3D Systems. "The release of our newest Figure 4 materials enables production of parts through additive across the entire product development and production value chain – an industry breakthrough unparalleled by competitive offerings. This is further proof that 3D Systems is the only additive manufacturing solutions group providing the depth of expertise and breadth of technology leadership, which enables companies to create new, improved products while gaining efficiencies that place them well ahead of their competitors."
