Formlabs’ Fuse Blast automates SLS post-processing
Post-processing solution can deliver finished parts in as little as 15 minutes
Formlabs unveiled its Fuse Blast system at Formnext 2023 this week. The new product is an automated part cleaning and polishing solution for selective laser sintering (SLS), which enables users of Fuse 1 Series 3D printers to significantly speed up post-processing while also reducing labor costs associated with more manually demanding post-processing systems.
According to Formlabs, the Fuse Blast is capable of delivering customer-grade parts in as little as 15 minutes, reducing post-processing times by up to 80%. The Fuse Blast integrates automatic tumbling for removing loose and semi-sintered powder from prints as well as an in-line ionizer, which stops dust from settling onto the parts. For larger components, users can opt for manual assisted cleaning, or the hand-held cleaning option for highly delicate parts. The Fuse Blast Polishing System is an optional add-on, which delivers a smooth, scuff-resistant and dye-ready surface finish to printed parts.
“The Fuse Blast is a huge step forward for the Formlabs SLS ecosystem, bringing the same ease-of-use and accessibility that we are known for in the SLA space by enabling users to get clean-to-the-touch, industrial-grade SLS parts in as little as 15 minutes after printing,” said Dávid Lakatos, Chief Product Officer at Formlabs. “Combined with our newest software updates, we’re continuing to streamline the SLS 3D printing process so Formlabs users can print high-quality parts faster.”
The Fuse Blast, which completes Formlabs’ Fuse ecosystem, will begin shipping in early 2024, while the optional polishing module will become available in H1 2024. This hardware launch is also accompanied by software updates for Formlabs’ Fuse Series machines, which accelerate pre-printing, printing and post-processing workflows. The software update includes a 30% increase in print speed for Nylon 12 powder on Fuse 1+ 30W printers, an improved packing algorithm that reduces powder waste and enhanced part resolution for Nylon 12 powder.
