Welcome back to Vision Miner’s 3D printing news. Today, we’re bringing you a special recap of Formnext 2020. While the world’s largest 3D printing event usually takes place in Germany, this year, it went virtual, and we’ve got all the exciting highlights for you right here.
3D Printing Machines
Let’s start with the Ultimaker 2 Plus Connect. This updated model offers Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity for their digital factory software. It’s designed for accessible printing in labs, libraries, and educational institutions. The addition of a touchscreen interface replaces the old dial and button controls. Ultimaker also introduced the Ultimaker 2 Plus Connect Air Manager, equipped with a HEPA filter for enhanced fume extraction.
Next up, Mamaki introduced the 3D UJ2207, a full-color UV LED 3D printer. With a build volume of 200x200x76 mm, it’s perfect for scaled models, prototyping, medical applications, and education. It’s an entry-level color 3D printer that can create over 10 million full-color profiles at a resolution of 1200 PPI.
Titan Robotics revealed the Atlas 3.6, their largest pellet extrusion printer to date. With a massive build volume of 1270x1270x1828 mm, it can print parts up to six feet tall. The actively heated chamber supports high-temperature composites, and it offers various extrusion configurations for versatility.
Optomek introduced two lens additive manufacturing systems, the CS250 and HCTBR, both based on directed energy deposition for metal 3D printing. They come in three and five-axis versions and feature next-gen print heads with adjustable laser size and intensity. These systems cater to research and high-volume applications.
SLM Solutions unveiled the NXG 12 600 metal printer, featuring 12 one-kilowatt lasers operating simultaneously, making it up to 20 times faster than their previous models. The large build envelope and advanced optical setup allow for efficient printing with various spot sizes.
3D Printing Software and Hardware
Intraspectral presented AM Explorer, a software designed for visualizing and analyzing layer-based metal additive manufacturing. It allows manufacturers to understand process data, reduce costs, enhance quality, and accelerate application development.
4D additive print preparation software received an update, enabling users to create lattice structures for lightweight objects, making it easier to fabricate complex parts like implants.
Shining 3D Scanners released a fully automatic desktop 3D inspection scanner and a handheld color 3D scanner. Their scanners offer high accuracy for 3D scanning and inspection, making them valuable tools in various industries.
Octon and EOS introduced an AI-driven factory operating system for a seamless AM workflow, aiming to create autonomous manufacturing, a significant step in the world of 3D printing.
3D Printing Materials
Centium Filaments launched an ESD-safe red filament, ideal for cleanroom environments, electronic parts, and even space vehicle components. It offers high impact and tear resistance while being electrostatic discharge safe.
They also introduced a PET carbon fiber filament with 15% fiber reinforcement, offering excellent thermal properties and durability at high temperatures. Another material, 9085, is designed for high-performance applications and aerospace parts.
Furman Alloys released the Almighty 90, a series of high-performance aluminum powders with exceptional mechanical properties, increased strength, and 25% higher hardness compared to previous versions.
Evonik and HP collaborated to create a high-performance flexible powder for additive SLS-type processes, offering flexibility and low density while maintaining toughness.
DSM introduced Eco Packs AM4001GF, a bio-based 3D printing polymer with excellent thermal and mechanical properties, ideal for lightweight automotive parts and suitable for clean room applications.
Nexa 3D presented their X PRO 410 photopolymer resin, offering high speed, accuracy, and surface finish, making it perfect for various applications. They also introduced X CAST resin for precision metal investment casting patterns.
Tiger Coatings released a flame retardant SLS powder, ideal for functional parts in automotive, electronics, transportation, and aerospace industries. It boasts excellent thermal and mechanical performance.
These are just a few of the exciting innovations that emerged from Formnext 2020. Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t forget to subscribe to our channel for in-depth coverage on these topics and much more. Here at Vision Miner, we’re dedicated to high-temp, high-performance 3D printing, and we’re always ready to assist you with your 3D printing needs. Whether it’s machines, materials, or services, we’ve got you covered. Feel free to get in touch with us, and thank you for watching. Have a fantastic day!