Formlabs has used the CES 2018 platform to introduce two new 3D printing resins catering to two different applications. The leader in desktop SLA 3D printers is constantly expanding their material library with new materials and these two new resins, Rigid Resin and Grey Pro Resin are its newest addition.
The 3D printer manufacturers are not only developing printers but they are also exploring the extent of material technology. According to Max Lobovsky, CEO, and co-founder of Formlabs, “We believe we can drive 3D printing into more end-use applications by dramatically improving material properties and significantly decreasing the cost per part”.
Formlabs believes that the two main factors influencing the growth of 3D printing across applications are materials and cost per part. Formlabs has already taken the first step by building low-cost high-resolution 3D printers like Form1, Form2, and Fuse1 (their first SLS printer). Formlabs offers a wide variety of materials and its ever-increasing library is a testament to the effort invested in developing their material technology. Rigid Resin and Grey Pro Resin are introduced to bring more muscle to the Formlabs 3D Printing story.
Grey Pro Resin:
Above: Functional sample printed from Grey Pro Resin
Image Credit: Formlabs
It is developed for prototyping. It is suitable for printing functional parts and can withstand rigorous testing. It can be used for applications like form and fitment testing, injection moulding product prototypes, mould masters for plastics and silicones, and jigs and fixtures for manufacturing.
Rigid Resin:
Above: Functional sample printed from Grey Pro Resin
Image Credit: Formlabs
It is the first glass-infused material by the company. The glass lends the material a polished finish and a premium feel. Fine features and parts requiring high accuracy should be printed with this resin. It can be used for applications like jigs & fixtures, turbines and fan blades, manifolds, housings for electrical and automotive applications, and other parts that require high stiffness with a superior finish.
Colour Kit:
Above: Samples printed from recently introduced Colour Kit
Image Credit: Formlabs
Recently, Formlabs launched a Colour Kit, the first integrated colour mixing solution for Stereolithography 3D printing. Using this kit, anyone can mix their own colour resin and create smooth & coloured 3D prints. These two resins are a part of their Standard Resin library which is a general purpose material suitable for prototyping and conceptual models.
