How Does the Latest SLA 3D Printer Compete with Injection Molding?
Parts produced by the Form 4 are virtually identical to injection-molded parts in terms of tolerance, resolution and surface finish, according to Cole Durbin, technical program manager at Formlabs.
In this second of a three-part series, Durbin told Machine Design the printer can achieve 50-micron XY resolution with tight tolerances, allowing for crisp and finely detailed features like injection molding. He also said the speed of the printer can be as fast as injection molding, making it a competitive choice for outputting parts quickly. In this installment, Durbin also touches on estimated ROI as well as sustainability.
When it comes to material choice, he says this printer expands the design space for engineers by offering materials such as silicones, ceramics, glass-filled resins, flame-retardant and high-temperature resins.
Watch additional parts of this interview series with Cole Durbin:
