Formlabs has announced two new 3D printers, the Form 4L and Form 4BL, alongside several material and processing updates.
The new Form 4L has a build volume nearly five-times that of the recently launched Form 4, completing large prints at up to 80mm/hour printing speeds, while the Form 4BL is a biocompatible version of the 4L targeted at dental usage.
It is compatible with over 23 materials that offer properties including biocompatible and flame retardancy, plus news that Formlabs is officially opening up its system to give users the freedom and flexibility to use any third-party SLS or SLA materials with Open Material Mode (OMM).
Users can print with any material, and the new Print Settings Editor enables users to adjust print settings for maximum performance with all materials.
New accessories include a Resin Mixer, Resin Tank, Build Platform, Build Platform Flex L, Resin Pumping System, and Finish Kit and Form Wash L for post-processing.
A new resin cartridge design reduces plastic waste by 63 per cent and delivers faster resin dispensing, while Formlabs says that prices have been lowered to $79 for general purpose materials in order to allow for a broader range of applications.
Updated Formlabs PreForm software has new features for job model and preparation, including shareable print settings and job and preparation features that allow users to create model hollowing, drain holes, part texturing, part labelling and part cages.
Two new SLS powders, Nylon 12 White Powder and Nylon 12 Tough Powder, are available for purchase and intended for use with its Fuse 3D printers.
Nylon 12 White Powder is an updated version of Nylon 12 Powder intended for producing white parts, and Nylon 12 Tough Powder produces resistant parts with high ductility.
“Formlabs started with a clear mission to make professional 3D printing more accessible, and opening our platform is the beginning of a new chapter for Formlabs, where we enable users to help make 3D printing better for everybody,” said Formlabs CEO Max Lobovsky.
“Developer Platform represents a transformation for our entire platform that will unlock the benefits of user control and unique properties of third-party SLS and SLA materials. This shift will break down barriers, welcoming innovators at every level to explore endless new possibilities and bring their ideas to life.”
