Stratasys Enhances FDM 3D Printers

Stratasys Ltd., Minneapolis, has introduced four new enhancements to its Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)-based 3D printers, fully optimizing select models for creating functional product prototypes, production tools and end-use parts for manufacturing applications.

New Sacrificial Tooling Solution

Stratasys has launched a new sacrificial tooling solution, comprised of its new ST-130 material and new fill patterns. Together, the new material and fill patterns reportedly provide faster dissolution, rapid build speed, better autoclave performance and greatly improved tool quality. The new sacrificial tooling solution is available for the Fortus 450mc and 900mc 3D Printers.

“Ideal for automotive, aerospace and sporting goods industries, the new ST-130 material empowers manufacturers of composite parts with an accelerated, more cost-effective option for sacrificial tooling,” said Ryan Sybrant, director of manufacturing marketing and enablement at Stratasys.

To reduce production time and cost for both parts and tooling, Stratasys is introducing the Fortus 900mc Acceleration Kit. This new kit, designed for Stratasys’ most powerful FDM 3D printer, allows very large structures to be 3D printed up to three times faster. The kit will first be compatible with ASA and ULTEM1010 materials.

First ULTEM Material with Full Aerospace Traceability

Stratasys ULTEM 9085 Aerospace grade filaments are produced according to aerospace specification requirements. While there is no change from the standard ULTEM 9085 material, the new aerospace designation allows for full production traceability in compliance with strict aerospace requirements. In addition to the Stratasys Certificate of Compliance, each order of ULTEM 9085 Aerospace grade filament is provided with traceability documentation and a certificate of analysis confirming batch material properties.

Engineers can begin prototyping sooner - avoiding lengthy time-to-market for new aerospace designs and high costs resulting from late development design changes. ULTEM 9085 Aerospace is also optimized for low-volume or custom tooling applications.

PC-ABS Material Now Available on More Stratasys 3D Printers

Owners of the Fortus 380mc and 450mc 3D Printers will now have the ability to leverage PC-ABS, reducing time-to-market and high tooling costs for low-volume and custom production builds. 3D printing in real engineering thermoplastics results in stronger parts, more confident testing and prototypes that mimic the material properties of the final product.

“We believe that these new enhancements will greatly increase the impact of Stratasys FDM 3D printing solutions, clearly demonstrating a commitment to the ongoing success of our manufacturing customers. Each new feature is designed to address specific manufacturing requirements - including speed, ease-of-use and creation of new industrial applications,” said Sybrant.