Stratasys launches V650 Flex
Today at the Additive Manufacturing Users Group Conference in Chicago, Stratasys has made a number of announcements including a significant entry into the stereolithography (SLA) market.
The pioneering company has spent the last 30 years focused on FDM and PolyJet systems, recently expanding into the metals market. The SLA announcement is said to build on the extensive application and experience of the technology within its Stratasys Direct Manufacturing business, culminating in the commercial launch of a large-scale system that promises material flexibility and accuracy.
The machine is called the V650 Flex. It features a large build volume of 20 x 20 x 23 inches and an open materials architecture backed by a partnership with leading material science company, DSM. Users will be able to use a number of DSM’s Somos engineering-grade 3D printing resins including Somos Element, Somos NeXT, Somos PerFORM and Somos Watershed XC 11122, which have been configured for use on the system. However, the open vat configuration means customers will also be able to use their own formulations.
“While stereolithography is one of the original 3D printing processes – mainly used to create master patterns or large concept models quickly and accurately – customers have been challenged by restricted systems that can’t be configured and materials at a high cost-per-part,” said Omer Krieger, EVP Products, Stratasys. “The V650 Flex is the result of customer demand around the world wanting a better solution – fully configurable to match the specific application and use-case. The solution is truly one of the first large-scale systems for creating reliable, high-quality parts across design concepts, validation, investment casting, tooling, and injection moulding.”
Stratasys announces F120 FDM printer.
Stratasys also annouced an expansion to its F123 Series of professional FDM systems with the launch of the F120, a smaller desktop-sized printer aimed at designers, engineers and educators. The machine is said to be up to 3 x faster than competitive solutions and is backed by over 1,200 hours of testing against competitors to ensure robustness and accuracy. Unlike similar industry-orientated desktop plastic extrusion systems, the F120 benefits from a spool-free material feed which uses recyclable cardboard filament boxes to allow for up to 250 hours of uninterrupted printing.
The machine has been designed for ease-of-use with simple controls, remote self-monitoring, and "plug-and-print" functionality enabled by Stratasys' GrabCAD Print software, which aims to remove complexity from the design-to-print process. The company believes the machine will fit within design studio, office and classroom environments for prototyping, tooling, and end-use applications.
"While many analysts report the entry-level 3D printing segment has grown significantly, we note organizations struggle with building production-level models on the first or second try - at the reliability and repeatability of high-end systems. This puts smaller designers and academic institutions at a significant disadvantage," Omer Krieger, EVP Products, Stratasys, said. "The Stratasys F120 printer meets the needs of customers, providing engineering and design groups with highly productive part printing - whether they're across the hall or around the globe."
Priced at 11,999 USD, the F120 is expected to start shipping in July. AMUG attendees will be able to see both machines on the Stratasys booth at the Hilton Chicago this week.
