Speed doubled for desktop 3D printers

Layer manufacturing process combines ink-jet technology with high-precision milling to build models or patterns of a high dimensional accuracy.

Solidscape has announced a 100% speed increase for its T66 and T612 desktop 3D printers.

Available in the UK from Unimatic Engineers, the rapid prototyping printers will still achieve the same high resolution, while doubling the potential work output, and with no increase in price.

The layer manufacturing process combines ink-jet technology with high-precision milling to build models or patterns of a high dimensional accuracy.

The process uses drop-on-demand jetting that comprises two piezo jets that put out up to 12,000 droplets per second; one deposits a thermoplastic, Induracast, that has properties similar to wax, the other a special sacrificial support wax, Indurafill, that provides support for undercuts and overhanging features and that is dissolved after completion of the part.

The print heads digitally deposit micro-droplets of molten build and support materials that solidify on impact with the cooler build layer.

After building, each layer is milled flat to the required thickness.

This process produces fine-featured patterns, up to +/-0.025mm accuracy with a surface finish of 0.8um that are used mainly for investment casting.

The doubling in speed has been achieved with a version of the onboard Modelworks CAM software.

This translates CAD designs into solid 3D models so accurate that users can go beyond concept modelling straight to the production of tooling grade patterns ready for casting or mould-making.

The Modelworks program operates at a speed that cuts the overall cycle time by half, while providing a level of precision that reduces or completely eliminates the need for any post processing or polishing.

"The increased productivity of these machines gives a very convincing cost-benefit analysis," said Trupti Patel, Commercial Director at Unimatic.

"We see this range of machines as the key to penetrating new industrial markets where intricate, master patterns are required".

"The higher speed Solidscape desktop machines address customer needs for cost-effective pricing, higher throughputs, cast-ready results and superb surface finishes".

"In our traditional jewellery markets, the increased speeds will cut build times and enable jewellers to provide custom-built designs at reasonable prices".

Other than jewellery, Solidscape machines are also used in medical prosthetic applications.

Unimatic is offering existing Solidscape desktop users an upgrade option that is free for systems covered under warranty or for those who have purchased a service contract.

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