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LARGER CONTINUOUS PRINTER A "game-changing" 3D printer that reportedly makes parts 25 to 100 times faster than any other additive manufacturing system is now available in a second, larger model. As reported in our Nov. '15 Close Up, the printer from Carbon3D, Inc., Redwood City, Calif. (carbon3d.com), is unlike any other in that it does not print layer by layer, but continuously pulls a part upward from a pool of liquid photo- polymer that is solidified by UV light. This reportedly yields isotropic properties more similar to those of injection molded parts. Also unlike other AM methods, which add layers to the top of the part, Carbon's CLIP (Continuous Liquid Interface Production) technology (also known as DLS—Digital Light Synthesis) pulls the part upward from the liquid pool while curing at the bottom of the growing part. The pulling or "growing" speed varies automatically according to the cross-section of the part (faster where the part is thinner, slower where it is thicker). Compared with other AM systems, initial production time is said to be reduced from hours to minutes. However, the "green" parts require post-curing in a forced-air circulation oven to develop their full mechanical properties by a second chemical reaction. Carbon introduced its first CLIP printer, the M1, in April 2016. It has a build volume of 5.6 × 3.1 × 12.8 in. (141 × 79 × 326 mm) and a pixel resolution of 75 μm. Now there is also the model M2 with twice the build volume but the same resolution. Also new is a Smart Part Washer as a separate unit. Carbon3D has implemented a subscription pricing model, whereby an M2 printer costs $50,000/yr for a minimum term of 3 yrs. The M1 costs $40,000/yr. That includes current software and free updates, plus phone and email support and on-site service for repair and main- tenance. Additional one-time expenses are a $5000 installation and training fee, and an "Accessory Pack" for $12,500 that includes the At least three new models of 3D printers were on display at the Design & Manufacturing Atlantic show in June at the Jacob J. Javits Convention Center in NYC. Some early adopters of new additive manufacturing (AM) technolo- gies were also at the show. SMALL, AFFORDABLE FDM PRINTER A new FDM-type 3D printer from Cubibot, a San Diego-based startup (cubibot.com), is described as one of the smallest printers on the market, "super-affordable," and easy to use. It offers a 5-in. cubed print envelope within a 10-in. cubed footprint for the device. The refillable filament cartridge can run ABS, PLA, PC, and nylon mate- rials. It's expected to cost under $500 when it starts shipping in the next few months. (A kickstarter campaign is now underway.) Despite its small size and price tag, the Cubibot is feature- loaded, according to Aria Noorazar, CEO/CTO. Not least is its precision, down to 0.1 mm. Unlike some other units, it also comes with a heated print bed as standard, and filtered ventilation for safer use. The printer is wi-fi enabled and operated with web-based software. Remote control is available via Android and iOS apps. By Matt Naitove Executive Editor Cubibot CEO/CTO Aria Noorazar with his new FDM printer, described as "super-compact, super-affordable, and easy to use." New 3D Printers at NYC Show Affordability, speed, and improved mechanical properties appeal to early adopters. FDM printing now comes in a highly compact, "super-afford- able" package. Carbon3D announced the first commercial application for its CLIP 3D printing process—midsoles for individualized Futurecraft 4D running shoes from adidas. 22 SEPTEMBER 2017 Plastics Technology PTonline.com A D D I T I V E M A N U F A C T U R I N G Close -Up On Technolog y