Raise3D launches new DF2 Solution for DLP at Formnext

Raise3D, the flexible manufacturing solutions provider, is unveiling its new DF2 Solution today at Formnext. It’s a new milestone in their expansive portfolio of professional and industrial 3D printing, marking their debut in photopolymer resin 3D printing. The DF2 Solution, based on Digital Light Printing (DLP) technology, promises rapid printing speeds, refined surfaces, high precision, and remarkable reliability. It has been meticulously crafted for engineering prototyping, manufacturing aids, and low-volume production with a diverse selection of high-grade resins. The DF2 Solution features a traceable workflow to reduce labor time and optimize the use of resin 3D printing in production.

“Our goal has always been to make resin printing hassle-free for production, with unmatched repeatability, unparalleled quality, and remarkable speed. With the DF2 Solution, we are proud to have achieved a solid step in this direction,” said Raise3D CEO, Edward Feng.

Pre-sale for the DF2 Solution will start on November 7, 2023. Customers can take advantage of an exclusive 10% discount on all orders placed between November 7 and November 30, 2023. It is expected to begin shipping to customers in the first quarter of 2024. The international introduction of the DF2 Solution is set for Formnext, in Frankfurt. All are invited to the unveiling at the Raise3D booth on November 7th at 11:00 AM. For more details and inquiries, reach out to Raise3D directly.

The DF2 Solution 

The DF2 Solution provided by Raise3D is a comprehensive 3D printing workflow that encompasses various key components. The Raise3D DF2 3D Printer, a DLP printer (MSRP €4,999/$4,999), is designed to produce low-volume high-resolution parts with precision and repeatability. It achieves this through its reliable Z-Axis lifting system, efficient material management, heated chamber, high-quality optical system, advanced Anti-Aliasing technology, and Air-Peel technology for easy layer detachment.

Additionally, the solution includes the Raise3D DF Wash (MSRP €1,399/$1,599), an automated cleaning device featuring twin-turbine washing and hand washing simulation, along with a double-fan air drying system. This cleaning system is compatible with various cleaning agents such as alcohol, IPA, TPM, and water. Furthermore, the Raise3D DF Cure (MSRP €1,599/$1,899) is an advanced curing station equipped with multiple UV curing and heating profiles, utilizing dual curing sources across multiple wavelengths (365/385/405 nm) for optimal curing efficiency. Together, these components create a seamless and efficient 3D printing process.

In terms of materials, Raise3D offers the Raise3D Resins, a diverse range of resins tailored for specific applications, with more options set to be introduced in the near future. The Standard Resin, currently available in white and soon to be expanded to include more colors, features a user-friendly matte finish, making it ideal for prototyping and crafting detailed models. The Tough 2K Resin stands out for its durability and impact resistance, comparable to ABS, making it a suitable choice for load-bearing components like jigs, fixtures, and housings.

For those requiring ultra-high resolution, the High Detail Resin, available in apricot and soon in a transparent variant, captures intricate details and offers a matte finish ready for direct painting and plating, making it perfect for complex models and intricate art pieces. Additionally, the Rigid 3K Resin, with properties akin to glass fiber-reinforced thermoplastics, provides high rigidity, and excellent thermal, and chemical resistance, making it ideal for printing thin wall parts. To simplify the DLP printing process within the DF2 Solution, Raise3D offers the ideaMaker Slicing Software, featuring antialiasing, auto support, contour compensation, suction cup detection, texture generation, and reduced Gcode size, among other advanced features.

Raise3D continues its commitment to innovation with ongoing investment in resin development. A wide variety of materials are on the horizon, such as high-temperature resin, for production-grade end-use parts that meet special application needs and that drive technological advancement.

The company recognizes the integral role that resin material development plays in advancing 3D printing applications. For this reason, Raise3D is proud to add resin development as a core competency within their organization, with an ongoing reallocation of internal resources to advance it.

Furthermore, Raise3D is proud to work alongside strategic partners like Henkel and BASF Forward AM. With the introduction of the DF2 Solution, Raise3D has successfully validated a wide range of materials, including LOCTITE 3D IND405™, and LOCTITE 3D PRO476™, Ultracur3D® RG 3280, and Ultracur3D® RG 1100 B.

As part of the company strategy, the Raise3D DF2 Solution will continue to support an open material platform for innovation to empower its customers to explore new possibilities in resin 3D printing. With the launch of the DF2 Solution, Raise3D is pleased to announce the ORP (Open Resin Program). A collaboration between Raise3D and Resin Manufacturers to identify and select top-performing resins for the Raise3D DF2 Solution.

Benefits & Features of the DF2

Raise3D highlights several benefits and features that distinguish the DF2 Solution, including (1) traceable and easy operations, (2) superior print quality, (3) enhanced reliability, and (4) efficient and safe workflow.

Traceable and easy operations are made possible by the Smart Build Plate Technology: The smart build plate seamlessly integrates with post-processing devices, thanks to embedded RFID tags that record the type of resin being used, in addition to washing and curing settings. This allows operators to manage the washing and curing phases with ease, regardless of their familiarity with the products being produced.

The Streamlined Resin Management boasts features such as Auto Resin Refill, Resin Material Auto-Recognition, Ultrasonic Liquid Level Monitoring, and Assisted Resin Tank Cleanup. In addition, faster and better prints are made possible by Raise3D’s Air-Peel technology significantly decreases peeling force, making layer removal from the film faster during printing. This innovation is supported by an ultra-thin air film that facilitates smoother peeling and enhances printing speed and isotropic properties of printed products.

Raise 3D also promises superior print quality via the use of optimal optical components: these minimize loss and eliminate dispersion, ensuring the reproduction of sharp layers, for best durability and image quality. Boasting a 78.5 μm XY Pixel and 2560 x 1440 resolution, the DF2 can achieve detailed and smooth prints every time, as a result of not just superior hardware but also the integration of sophisticated Anti-Aliasing technology. Also, the 3rd generation smart lattice support ensures a high rate of print success, reducing the likelihood of operator errors. The advanced support structure is also designed to minimize residual marks, lessening the need for post-print sanding or finishing.

The DF2 Solution is built with high-quality components for long-lasting use and excellent image clarity. The core light engine features curated LED light sources, a DMD chip dedicated for 405 nm 3D Printing, and a low-distortion glass lens optimized for DLP technology. It also leverages advanced machine vision technology for system calibration, ensuring accuracy at every step. Additionally, each unit arrives pre-calibrated from the factory, ready for immediate operation. The machine’s heated chamber ensures stable temperatures essential for consistent printing outcomes, particularly when using specialty resins that demand a heated environment. The printer’s dust and spill-proof design further guarantees sustained performance and durability.

The automated drainage with an easy-to-operate automatic pump and door mechanism that minimizes the need for manual intervention, contributes to reducing manual tasks. The DF Wash flushing system streamlines the solvent removal process from the wash station, enhancing cleaning efficiency while minimizing user contact with chemical residues. In addition, the DF Cure’s spacious curing area accommodates large models, and multi-wavelength curing ensures compatibility with various resins.