Irish based company, Mcor Technologies Limited, has announced its plans to introduce a 3D printer that builds models from standard sheets of paper, the ‘Mcor Matrix’, in the summer of 2008.

Mcor has developed a 3D printer based on LOM (laminated object manufacturing), whereby A4/letter pages are glued together to form a 3D part that is easily weeded due to its patented selective adhesive applicator.

This cost-effective model maker will enable students, designers and engineers to create 3D models at 2D prices. With a material cost of 0.01 euros per cubic centimeter, the ‘Mcor Matrix’ can produce parts that are up to 40 times less expensive than its competitors.

“We feel that the introduction of a PRP system represents a significant change in current trends in the RP market,” said Dr Conor MacCormack, Mcor Technologies’ CEO. “It’s not all about low cost machines and disruptive technology; it is more about total cost of ownership (TCO) and accessibility. Even free, competitor machines are too expensive in terms of their running costs. By providing a machine with the lowest TCO, we will be able to put the technology into the hands of those who wish to use it; multiple parts into multiple hands.”

Mcor plans to launch the Mcor Matrix in the UK at the TCT conference and exhibition in October 2008.