EnvisionTEC, has unveiled a new generation of entry-level desktop 3D printers with the Aria, promising “best-in-class surface finish and accuracy”.
The launch marks EnvisionTEC’s debut into the low-cost desktop 3D printing market bringing its professional Micro platform technology to a wider audience at a significantly lower price point of $6,999. EnvisionTEC believes the Aria will be ideal for jewellers, makers of consumer goods such as toys and miniatures, industrial parts and more.
“For 15 years, EnvisionTEC has been known for its unwavering commitment to delivering professional-grade 3D printers, and we have never wanted to sell a cheap printer,” said CEO Al Siblani. “Today, with the launch of Aria, we remain faithful to our mission of delivering a premium product, but at a more accessible price that gives users a taste of EnvisionTEC’s outstanding quality.”
Despite resisting temptation to go into the low-end desktop market, EnvisionTEC says the Aria has been launched in response to a growing trend from customers who have been disappointed by some low-cost machines. Moreover, we have seen an uptake in the use of low-cost desktop 3D printers in an industrial capacity with the likes of Ultimaker collaborating with Volkswagen, and 3D Systems getting back into the desktop market, this time targeting a professional audience.
The Aria is effectively a repackaged version of the Micro and features an industrial-grade UV LED light engine, 65 x 40 x 100 mm build area, dual-axis Z slide and a material tray built with optical glass instead of plastic. The Z layer resolution can be set at 25, 35 or 50 microns, depending on material. The machine also comes equipped with EnvisionTEC’s Perfactory Software Suite and Magics.
EnvisionTEC says the Aria is also an open materials system, though materials must be certified for use. The machine will be offered with a choice of four of EnvisionTEC’s most popular materials including:
- EC500, its highest resolution and crispest lost wax casting material ideal for heavier jewellery pieces
- PIC100 for detailed castable parts including thin walls and intricate features, three times harder than carving wax and ideal for delicate jewellery
- QView, one of it’s fastest materials for quick design verification
- RC90, a high heat-resistant material containing ceramic for building tough, stiff parts ideal for building parts to create rubber mould masters.
Aria is now available for purchase online in North America and Europe, with an estimated lead time of 4-6 weeks from purchase.
