Computer Solutions
but, in terms of purchase cost, towards the bottom end of the market Z Corporation recently launched the ZPrinter 350. This machine converts 3D data into monochrome physical models in a largely automated process (Fig. 1). Using the ZPrinter 350 to create a model is said to be almost as easy as printing a document on paper using a conventional printer. Over the past year or so, other companies introducing new 3D printers for use in an office environment have included Objet Geometries with its multi-material Connex350, Stratasys with its Dimension uPrint Plus for true multi-colour, desktop 3D printing, and Solido3D with its low-cost SD300 Pro 3D printer that is said to be the only desktop 3D printer to use Laminated
Object Manufacturing (LOM) technology.
While equipment has played an important part in the development of 3D printing, specialist materials have also been instrumental. For example, Huntsman’s SL 7870 stereolithography (SLA) resin is claimed to offer glass- like appearance, high component strength and properties that are comparable to those available from moulded ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene). The material is also dimensionally stable in humid environments. Another high-performance material has been developed
by 3D Systems. Its Accura Peak Plastic is an SLA material for optimal performance, accuracy and stability during prolonged exposure to elevated temperature and humidity. It is aimed at demanding applications that require high levels of strength, stiffness and thermal and humidity stability. 3D Systems says the material can be used for high-definition master patterns, fixtures and jigs, thermoforming tools and functional models requiring accuracy and dimensional stability over time. Steve Hanna, 3D Systems’ director of materials sales and marketing, comments: “This is a breakthrough material tailored for extreme operating environments for our growing base of automotive, motorsports and aerospace users.” DSM Somos has recently introduced Somos Next, an
SLA resin that is claimed to approach ‘true thermoplastic performance.’ Parts made from this material combine stiffness and toughness, but also benefit from high feature detail, dimensional accuracy and good aesthetics. DSM Somos’ marketing
manager, Vince Adams, says: “This is a material you need to hold in your hand to fully appreciate. The stiffness/toughness combination produces a look and feel that is so like a thermoplastic - people are
Fig. 2. Using Fused Deposition Modeling technology from Stratasys, the HP Designjet 3D printer is said to offer product developers a faster time-to-market and cost savings.
really surprised that it is actually stereolithography.” Parts made from this resin can be used in functional testing applications and low-volume manufacturing applications where high toughness is required. Target markets include aerospace, automotive, consumer products and electronics. The material can also be used to make functional
end-use performance prototypes including snap-fit designs, impellers, duct work, connectors and sporting goods. Adams adds: “The unique combination of mechanical properties is what gives Somos Next its key advantage compared with all previous SL resin options. We beta tested this material among a group of demanding professionals. They agree that Somos Next represents a generational step forward in producing prototyped SL parts.”
New supplier
One company that is a newcomer to 3D printing is HP, which launched its HP Designjet 3D at the recent Subcon show. In fact these printers are manufactured by Stratasys and incorporate its patented Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology. Stratasys chairman and chief executive officer, Scott Crump, believes the time is right for 3D printing to become mainstream. According to HP, the Designjet 3D allows designers to achieve faster time-to-market and cost savings during product development (Fig. 2). It is also claimed to set a new standard for automated 3D printing, office integration and reliability. HP has launched two Designjet 3D printers, with prices
starting around €13 000. The HP Designjet 3D printer creates accurate models in ivory-coloured ABS, while the HP Designjet Color 3D printer produces parts in eight colours. Santiago Morera, vice president and general manager of HP’s large-format printing business, says: “The affordability of the HP Designjet 3D printers means that businesses that choose these products are likely to see a return on investment very quickly. If they are outsourcing just five to ten models per month, the printer can pay for itself in one year and, if only one error is detected before tooling, it can potentially save them thousands.” The new machines also feature the HP Designjet 3D
Removal System, which removes excess model material within a normal office environment. In addition, the 3D printers produce models that are ready-to-handle without gloves, and the printing and post-processing of the models is automatic, requiring no manual finishing. Built from ABS, the models are durable and functional. Researchers at De Montfort University (DMU) in the UK
are looking to develop a machine that will produce complex plastic parts on demand, using laser printers and powder. DMU’s Rapid Manufacturing and Prototyping Group is part of a £750 000 (approximately €900 000) project, part-funded by the UK’s Technology Strategy Board, called Selective Laser Printing of High Performance Polymers (Sprint). Parts produced this way could be used in industries such as aerospace and automotive. As well as the Technology Strategy Board, other partners
include rapid manufacturing specialists MTT Technology, Renishaw and Parker. The Sprint project team intends to develop a compact, energy-efficient machine, together with a range of compatible polymer materials. The machine will precisely deposit powder using an adapted industrial laser printer before the entire layer is fused by infrared radiant heater. Jason Jones, who leads the project, comments: “Selective
laser printing has the potential to compete with conventional manufacturing techniques without the requirement for expensive moulds.” DMU’s Professor David Wimpenny adds:
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