3D Systems has introduced a new rubber-like material for its desktop FabPro 1000 3D printer.
The new elastomer, FabPro Elastic BLK, is ideal for design verification and prototyping of silicone, urethane or rubber-like parts such as seals, gaskets, grips and over-moulds. The material is said to offer realistic opaque black rubber aesthetics, good compressive characteristics, and is described as being most similar to Shore 65A elastomer.
Elastic BLK joins a growing list of resins for the FabPro 1000 machine which already includes tough engineering plastics, dental and castable materials. The machine was officially launched onto the market last year as an affordable industrial solution for engineering and jewellery applications. A desktop size stereolithography system, the machine is capable of building parts up to 125 x 70 x 120 mm with an accuracy between 30-50 microns. 3D Systems claims the machine delivers print speeds up to three-times faster than competing technologies.
When 3D Systems first announced its new product roadmap last year, its CEO, Vyomesh Joshi, spoke about the importance of materials in creating a true industrial desktop machine for functional prototyping. Combined with the company's 3D Sprint file preparation and print management software, 3D Systems says the FabPro 1000 "brings new levels of affordability to industrial-grade 3D printing."
