Lower than a yr after introducing the FX10 composite 3D printing platform, Markforged has launched a brand new functionality for the modular system. The FX10 Metallic Package converts the commercial 3D printer right into a system that may print each metallic filaments and steady fiber composites. Along with the brand new growth equipment, Markforged has additionally launched a brand new 316L chrome steel metallic filament, which is suitable with the versatile FX10.
The FX10 3D printer was designed to convey modularity to the manufacturing unit flooring and rework how spare components and tooling are made. Now, the system’s modularity is being taken to the subsequent degree with the introduction of metallic 3D printing capabilities. Beforehand, Markforged’s solely metal-capable extrusion system was the Metallic X (it additionally affords a metallic binder jetting system, the PX100).
“Prospects not have to decide on between a metallic and a composite printer,” defined Shai Terem, CEO of Markforged. “Years of R&D funding and area expertise have come collectively to supply an all-in-one answer for 3D printing to supply rapid return on funding as soon as put in on a manufacturing unit flooring. The FX10 supercharges different gear on the manufacturing unit flooring to be higher utilized and run extra effectively, growing productiveness and decreasing potential line down occasions.”
The FX10 Metallic Package consists of a swappable print engine with print head, feed tubes, routing again and twin pre-extruders all engineered for metallic filaments. Swapping between the composite FX10 print engine and the metallic one reportedly solely takes about quarter-hour, facilitating straightforward changeovers. With the FX10 Metallic Package, the commercial 3D printing platform can now print components from 316L chrome steel filament in addition to 17-4PH chrome steel. Markforged can be engaged on increasing the system’s materials assist to different metallic filaments.
“We designed the FX10 to be a modular platform, in order that we’re in a position to launch new improvements and upgrades with out prospects having to buy a brand new printer yearly,” Terem added. “Together with new software program capabilities we launch repeatedly, the FX10 Metallic Package is poised to supply repeatedly rising worth on manufacturing unit flooring for years to come back.”
The FX10 and FX10 Metallic Package can be showcased on the upcoming Worldwide Manufacturing Expertise Present (IMTS) in Chicago from September 9 to 14. As guests will be capable to see first hand, the FX10 platform allows quicker printing of each composites and metals in comparison with earlier generations of Markforged’s composite and metallic extrusion applied sciences, respectively. With a construct quantity of 375 x 300 x 300 mm, the FX10 additionally has a considerably bigger construct capability than the Metallic X (300 x 220 x 180 mm).
For Markforged prospects looking for to broaden the capabilities of their FX10 programs, the metallic printing course of does require post-processing, particularly washing and sintering to take away the binder from the inexperienced metallic print after which consolidate the metallic particles right into a dense part. Markforged affords a metallic 3D printing ecosystem, comprising the Wash-1 and Sinter-2 machines in addition to its Eiger slicer and print administration software program, which mechanically scales prints to account for shrinkage within the sintering stage.
