Computer Systems and Software


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.


High component strength


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 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


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.


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


Fig. 3. Materialise used one of its Mammoth stereolithography machines to build a model of Tutankhamun’ mummy for an exhibition.


Fig. 4. Materialise’s e-Stage software automatically generates a structure that supports the stereolithography part as it is built, but these supports are easily removed afterwards.


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