The latest EnvisionTec 3D printer uses laminate composites
The launch of the SLCOM 1 3D printer is EnvisionTec’s solution for industrial manufacturing of composite materials, employing a new patent pending process known as Selective Lamination Composite Object Manufacturing (SLCOM).
The technology allows for the building of composite parts using layer-by-layer laminated thermoplastic composite fabric sheets from a roll. The first 3D printer employing this technology, the SLCOM 1 will be capable of building objects up to 24″ x 30″ with a 24″ height.
Able to process a wide range of custom made thermoplastics, reinforced with unidirectional or multidirectional woven fibres, EnvisionTec suggests the materials can be tailored to customer performance needs.
“Some of the composite matrix materials the SLCOM 1 can process include woven glass fiber, woven carbon fiber, or other woven aramid fibers reinforced with a choice of Nylon 6, Nylon 11, Nylon 12, Peek, Pekk, Polycarbonate, and many others,” explains the launch announcement.
“We are proud to introduce the first disruptive industrial-scale, composites 3D printer,” said EnvisionTec CEO Al Siblani. “This represents a paradigm shift for manufacturing, especially where demanding mechanical and environmental properties can only be delivered from woven composites.”
