Mosaic has made a name for themselves in the multi-color 3D printing world with their popular Palette system, a sophisticated device that turns any FDM desktop 3D printer into a multi-color 3D printer. And while Mosaic has just released an updated version of that product, the Palette 3, that can print four materials (or eight with the Pro model), they’ve also released a different kind of multi-material product. The Array is a factory in a cabinet, a totally automated system that continuously manages four industrial printers.
With the launch of the Array, automated 3D printing is becoming more accessible. I’m referring more to ease of use than cost, though the cost is quite good when compared to the competition, and it’s well within the means of most small to medium-sized businesses. The Array is a fully-contained 3D printing system that loads and unloads materials for its four Element HT printers, starts prints, and removes prints and stores them so that the next prints can begin. It does all of those things automatically. Everything is controlled seamlessly through their Canvas software that lets the user easily select print materials and set print queues, and the Array handles the rest.
With a 32-pod material bay that can include industrial materials like PEEK and PEI, and the ability to print with up to eight materials in one print with the Palette X, the Array is clearly designed for maximum flexibility. And the vending machine-style robotic arm that removes prints, places them to the side, and loads a clean bed for the next print ensures maximum output. That’s where the real value of the Array is, in continuous uptime.