UltiMaker, a global leader in 3D printing, announced the release of Method XL, the ultimate 3D printing solution for engineering applications, which offers precision printing with industrial-grade materials without sacrificing part size. The UltiMaker® Method™ XL 3D printer combines the accuracy and performance of industrial production with the flexibility and affordability of a desktop 3D printer.
The latest printer release from UltiMaker’s professional offering bridges the gap between desktop and industrial 3D printers by providing an ideal balance of accessibility and performance. Its large build volume of 305 mm x 305 mm x 320 mm and dimensional accuracy of 0.2 mm enable customers to tackle large projects ranging from functional prototyping to end-use parts.
Method XL – Affordable Industrial 3D Printer
Method XL is designed to create large, complex, long-lasting parts out of industrial-grade materials such as ABS-R and ABS Carbon Fibre. The heated chamber, which can reach temperatures of up to 100°C, is intended to provide optimal results when printing with ABS, one of the most popular and difficult materials to print on a desktop 3D printer due to its tendency to warp and deform.
The heated build plate, which is new to the Method series, is a bonus for customers who want an extra layer of security to avoid warping and layer adhesion issues. The heated build plate and temperature-controlled heated build chamber work together to create a stable environment for printing precise and strong parts of any size.
“UltiMaker’s mission is to grow the adoption of 3D printing in manufacturing. We saw that there was a lack of production-level industrial capabilities in more accessible and easy-to-use 3D printers.”
– Nadav Goshen, CEO at UltiMaker
Goshen added, “With Method XL, we believe we are bringing customers the best 3D printing solution in the market for engineering applications. Method XL is the only 3D printer in its price class with a heated chamber and heated build plate to print large and accurate parts with injection molding plastics like ABS. With the ability to print larger parts, customers can achieve greater output and efficiency, making Method XL an excellent choice for those looking to take their 3D printing to the next level.”
More Features
Method XL can print production plastics at a fraction of the cost of industrial machines and with the ease of desktop 3D printers thanks to its large build volume, high dimensional accuracy, heated build chamber, and heated build plate. Method XL, when combined with RapidRinse™, a fast-dissolving water-soluble support material, makes printing with ABS even easier and smoother. RapidRinse speeds up support removal for complex FDM parts, resulting in a more refined surface finish. Method XL syncs directly with CloudPrint™ software for a seamless CAD file to printed part workflow, allowing customers to easily upload, monitor, and track print jobs from their web browser.
Through its open materials platform and the LABS Experimental Extruder, Method XL broadens the range of possibilities by being compatible with a wide range of industrial-grade materials. Jabil SEBS, a soft material with flexible, rubber-like properties; Polymaker PolyMax™ PC, a polycarbonate material that combines strength, toughness, and heat resistance; and LEHVOSS PAHT 9891, a carbon fiber-reinforced nylon with high temperature resistance, are currently available through the LABS programme. Method XL also includes an external moisture-controlled material case, which ensures that professional-grade materials perform optimally. For safer indoor 3D printing, the printer includes a HEPA filter and an activated carbon filter.
Ultimaker is a trademark or registered trademark of UltiMaker Holding B.V. MakerBot, CloudPrint, and RapidRinse are trademarks or registered trademarks of MakerBot Industries, LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
