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The ProX SLS 6100 platform is among 3D Systems' host of announcements.
3D Systems has today announced a series of new products and services, which include next-generation production platforms, plastic and metal materials, and an entry into industrial desktop 3D printing.
The company has invited a host of journalists and partners to its base in Denver, Colorado, of which TCT Deputy Group Editor, Laura Griffiths is one, to make the announcements. Representing a significant strengthening of its already abundant portfolio, 3D Systems hopes the announcements will help to address the widest array of customer applications across multiple industries.
Heading these announcements are 3D Systems’ production systems for both plastic and metal parts. The Figure 4, which was first announced earlier this year, enables manufacturers to create plastic parts at 20% lower cost. It was based on original drawings from CTO and TCT Hall of Famer, Chuck Hull, and will range from standalone configurations with prices starting from $25,000, to highly-customised, in-line production systems costing around $1million. Joining the Figure 4 in 3D System’s extensive portfolio is the DMP 8500 Factory Solution for metal parts. This system has been designed for the production of parts of all sizes – 3D Systems says it has the ability to manufacture the largest diameter parts available in the additive space. It features integrated powder management and a closed-loop system to ensure repeatable part quality, and similar to the Figure 4, has a modular design that reduces required capital equipment and can maximise utilisation.
3D Systems has also announced significant additions to its SLS production offering. The ProX SLS 6100 is the company’s latest SLS machine, said to deliver larger parts than competing systems, and is being introduced along with three new nylon materials. DuraForm FR1200 fire-retardant nylon, DuraForm EX BLK nylon 11, and DuraForm AF+ aluminium-filled nylon are the new material products and means 3D Systems’ SLS materials portfolio now consists of 11 materials. The ProX SLS 6100 will support these new materials, and with automated material handling and advanced 3D Sprint software, offers a competitive solution in the current market, per 3D Systems.
Additionally, 3D Systems has introduced new rigid and engineering-grade materials for its MultiJet Printing platform. These materials are said to be more durable and able to produce lower cost functional prototypes than similar systems on the market. They offer tough, ABS-like and polypropylene-like properties, with mid-low modulus, high elongation, and high-impact strength. A new rigid grey material offers high contrast that is ‘exceptional’ for viewing fine details. Several of the company’s rigid materials are certified USP Class VI and pass ISO 10993 for use in medical device applications.
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DMP 8500 Factory Solution floor plan
To help customers integrate its additive manufacturing systems, the company is introducing the 3D Systems Professional Services, which will offer consultancy and uptime services. Here, the company will allow users of its technology to benefit from its wealth of 3D printing and manufacturing experience and knowledge. Meanwhile, the new cloud-based 3D Connect software will deliver proactive and predictive serviceability for production environments big and small. It will enable remote service and printer fleet support, and be integrated on new and select current systems beginning early next year.
Finally, 3D Systems has announced its introduction into the industrial desktop 3D printing space with the FabPro 1000. This has been developed for engineers and designers, jewellery artisans and fabricators. 3D Systems says the machine delivers excellent part quality and speed, with lower total cost of operation. It will be available in due course at a price of under $5,000.
All in, 3D Systems has sought to further expand its set of additive manufacturing technologies, materials, software and services, to strengthen its position in the market. As it has been since 3D printing’s invention, 3D Systems wants to be at the forefront of the technology’s transition from prototyping tool to production.
“We believe these announcements change the game for our customers and the industry by providing customised solutions to help customers overcome obstacles to adopting additive manufacturing,” said 3D Systems CEO, Vyomesh Joshi. “The innovation and capabilities we are announcing today will significantly accelerate our strategy to help customers move from prototyping to production, vertical to vertical, bridging the chasm between traditional and additive manufacturing.”
Upon the announcement of these innovations and services, 3D Systems has also revealed partnerships with BMW and Sanmina. Signing a three-year partnership agreement, BMW has selected 3D Systems’ On Demand Manufacturing Services, as it looks to design and produce functional prototypes. This alliance will address around 80% of the auto manufacturer’s prototype parts requirements. Sanmina, meanwhile, will provide manufacturing services for the Figure 4 family of products and look to expand its adoption of AM within its own operations.
