3D Systems' fab-grade 3D printing technology has demonstrated it is ahead of the competition when it comes to speed.
During RAPID week in Detroit (June 10th), the industry juggernaut proved that 3D printing can both match and exceed the productivity of traditional injection moulding technologies in the direct manufacture of functional parts.
This is a significant step for 3D printing, as it shifts the perception that the technology is solely used for rapid prototyping towards full-scale production. The breakthrough opens up the possibility of high-volume, flexible additive manufacturing utilising 3D Systems' precision stereolithography (SLA) and selective laser sintering (SLS) printing technologies, without the time and cost involved in tooling or having to factor in a lengthy supply chain.
Chief Marketing Office of 3D Systems Cathy Lewis stated: "Our unwavering commitment to customer success through innovation has literally broken the mould this time – challenging the myth that 3D printing can’t match the productivity of injection moulding. This is just the beginning. We are working on additional applications that defy traditional manufacturing constraints, allowing our customers to go from idea to product in hours, instead of months - to truly manufacture the future."
3D Systems' imprint on the future of manufacturing was made when it first introduced stereolithography to the world. SLA 3D printing was the first technique to "revolutionise" product development and prototyping, with SLS offering another technology to the rapid prototyping marketplace soon after.
3D Systems' announcement shows that production speed records are changing the manufacturing sector yet again, making 3D printing a viable choice for low-to-high volume manufacturing of complex parts across a range of sectors.
