The additive manufacturing market has been quite active this week! Several important announcements have been made. Undeniably, the launch of UltiMaker’s new FDM 3D printer, the Factor 4 was the highlight. This solution aims to be industrial, compact and repeatable, focusing on workflow automation and increased productivity. Next, BMF has received FDA clearance for its veneer UltraThineer™, which are the world’s thinnest veneers. Subsequently, we introduce you to the new name of the giant GE Additive and also explore how INTAMSYS is taking part in Worldskills. We wrap up with news of Sintratec’s continued expansion. Have a great weekend and happy reading!
UltiMaker Unveils the Factor 4
A highly anticipated launch from the Dutch giant, which has merged with Makerbot, is here. The two new partners have introduced the Factor 4, a reliable desktop machine offering repeatable results ideal for industrial use. The FDM 3D printer features a print volume of 330 x 240 x 300 mm, comes equipped with a dual extruder and a nozzle that can heat up to 340°C. Offering a resolution of 6.9 microns on the XY axis and 2.5 microns on the Z axis. UltiMaker also emphasizes that with the Factor 4, they aim to enhance productivity by offering a sturdy design machine with various features to automate the production workflow. Compatible with a wide range of thermoplastics, from the most standard to the highly technical, it facilitates the creation of multiple applications.
Photo Credits: UltiMaker
BMF Receives FDA Clearance for Veneer Material
Boston Micro Fabrication (BMF) has announced that its UltraThineer™ material has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 510(k) clearance. The Zirconia-based material can be combined with BMF’s projection micro stereolithography (PµSL) technology to create the world’s thinnest (three-times thinner than traditional veneers), high-quality veneers. The best part? They require minimum prepping and are less invasive, making veneers making cosmetic dentistry even more comfortable. Professor Sun Yuchun, Peking University School of Stomatology concludes, “With the same durability as traditional veneers, dental labs across the U.S. can now deliver an improved veneer option that isn’t as invasive for the patient, minimizing tooth reduction and improving the overall appearance of teeth.”
GE Additive Rebrands as Colibrium Additive
Not long after GE declared that it would be splitting into three public companies, we have now learned the fate of GE Additive. Rebranded as Colibrium (derived from the words collaborative and equilibrium) Additive, it will operate under GE Aerospace. Moreover, it seems the Arcam EBM and Concept Laser brands, both acquired in 2016, will be retired with printers falling now into the categories of L-PBF or EBM. As reported in TCT Magazine, Alexander Smitz, CEO of Colibrium Additive exclaims, “While we are changing our name, we maintain our unwavering focus on our customers, quality, and reliability. We will continue to lead the additive manufacturing industry from the front and positively disrupt it.”
INTAMSYS, Official Supplier to Worldskills
The climax of this year’s Worldskills competition will be held in Lyon, France, from September 10 to 15. This is the world’s largest skills competition, uniting thousands of youngsters to test their talents. Among the trades showcased is additive manufacturing. And we’re discussing it today because manufacturer INTAMSYS has recently announced that it will be aiding the competition by contributing several of its 3D printers, including the FUNMAT PRO 310, which is compatible with technical materials such as polycarbonate. Regardless, we wish every participant the best of luck!
Photo Credits: Worldskills
Sintratec Expand Further Into Eastern Europe
A few weeks ago, we reported that Sintratec had an absolute record sales year in 2023. This has spurred the company to expand its sales network to East Asia by entering into a partnership with the Taiwan-based company 3Dprinting Technology. But Sintratec also wants to establish itself within Europe with its SLS printing solutions. This week, the company from Switzerland announced that it has found a new partner in 3Dees Industries from Prague. Founded in 2017, the company distributes powder solutions from well-known brands, including HP, Stratasys, Voxeljet etc. With the Sintratec printers, the first “Swiss Made” solutions are now also represented in the portfolio and its SLS segment is also being strengthened. 3Dees will not only ensure the distribution of Sintratec printers in the Czech Republic, but also in Slovakia. This partnership strengthens Sintratec’s distribution network in Eastern Europe and opens up a promising sales market.
Photo Credits: Sintratec
Read More: UltiMaker Reveals New Factor 4 3D Printer: An In-Depth Look with #3DExpress - 3D Printing News