Desktop Metal introduced Fiber technology, claiming it was the first 3D printer to offer "industrial fiber performance" in a desktop printer much more affordable than traditional solutions.
This innovative 3D printer uses a new process called micro-automatic fiber replacement (micro AFP) that enables high-resolution parts to be printed with industrial-grade continuous fiber composites.
These are objects with a high level of strength and rigidity: the parts produced are twice as strong as steel, but only account for 20% of the weight, which traditionally required AFP systems from one to another. cost several million.
Desktop Metal fiber is much more affordable (we'll see pricing soon) and can print a lot faster, too, to boot.
Ric Fulop, CEO and Co-Founder of Desktop Metal, explains: "For the first time, Fiber printers combine the properties of high-performance AFP continuous fiber materials with the affordability and speed of a desktop 3D printer.
Specifically, Fiber miniaturizes AFP technology by combining it with fused filament manufacturing and using a robotic tool changer architecture (with the ability to store up to four tools, including headphones). printing for different materials, or future expansion with features like automatic in-process inspection). .
An infinity of applications.
The uses of such 3D printed parts are very diverse and include components for electronics, automobiles, airplanes, etc., especially where light but strong materials are needed, such as race cars or autos. bicycles, even wheelchairs.
Turner Motorsport President Will Turner said enthusiastically: "Weight is everything in the race. Being able to replace critical metal components with continuous 3D printed fibers means we can maintain the strength of the metal while reducing the overall weight of the vehicle. automobile, making it even faster and more competitive. "
The fiber optic printer will ship in Spring 2020 and pre-orders are underway, but please note that the product is provided as a hardware service subscription plan, with two variants.
The cheapest tier starts at US € 3,495 per year and enables printing of the most expensive nylon-based continuous fiber materials that can be used with PEEK and PEKK materials, starting at US € 5,495. annually.