SLA 3D printing company Formlabs has expanded its range of 3D printers with the introduction of a new biocompatible large-format system, the Form 3BL, capable of dental and medical 3D printing. The company has also started shipping its Form 3L, which was first unveiled last year.
The newly launched Form 3BL features a build platform measuring 335 x 200 x 300 mm, making it more than double the size of the company’s Form 3B system for the dental market. In short, it combines the size of the Form 3L (which has the same dimensions) with Form 3B capabilities, notably optimization for biocompatible materials.
Thanks to its size, the Form 3BL can achieve high-volume dental production, all without sacrificing print quality. The new system is suitable for printing a range of dental devices, including orthodontic models for vacuum forming aligners, surgical guides, maxillofacial models and more.
Up to 48 models per day
According to Formlabs, the 3BL can print up to 48 models per day in just two print runs, which drastically reduces the amount of time dental technicians will spend planning and overseeing the print process. Another key characteristic? The new system is a fraction of the cost of systems with similar througput, costing $13,999 for the system and a one-year Dental Service Plan.
The company says: “The Form 3BL is designed for maximum productivity with minimum intervention—it works full time, so you don’t have to. Launch a print job in the morning and one before leaving the office to 3D print 48 models in a day, with only two printer interactions.”
To address easy adoption, the new system integrates easily with Formlabs’ products and existing dental workflows. The company also adds that as it continues to improve and optimize print settings for its materials, users will be able to achieve even faster print rates and higher throughput. 3D printed parts made using the Form 3BL can also be post-processed using the existing Form Wash and Form Cure systems.
Form 3L now shipping
Stereolithography 3D printing specialist Formlabs first unveiled its Form 3L 3D printer last year, showcasing a large-format system suitable for a range of applications. Now, the company is ready to ship its large-format system, following an extensive beta testing phase with partners at Optimus Ride, Black Diamond, Continental and Axial3D.
Black Diamond, a climbing equipment company, reportedly cut its prototype development lead times from seven to three days and reduced costs by 85% using the new Form 3L system.
