Formlabs Unveils Form 4 3D Printer with Enhanced Speed and Capabilities

Formlabs has unveiled the Form 4 3D printer, claiming it can print faster than its predecessor by using a LCD screen and bright backlight to cure resin layers. The printer uses masked stereolithography, promising increased speed and resolution, with the ability to complete most prints in under two hours and small items in just minutes. It also features a larger build volume, improved print monitoring capabilities, and connectivity options including Wi-Fi 5 and USB-C. In addition, the company will introduce new resins at a lower cost and offer a Form 4B version for medical and dental use. Formlabs, known for rapid prototyping, has made a mark in the medical field and unveiled the Form 4 to commemorate five years since the release of the Form 3, offering faster print speeds and increased build volume with high print resolution, and powered by new LFD technology for curing parts at higher speeds.

Key Takeaways

• Formlabs has launched the Form 4 3D printer, claiming to print 2 to 5 times faster than its predecessor, the Form 3 Plus, using LCD and bright backlight technology.
• The new printer uses masked stereolithography (mSLA) and can reportedly complete most prints in under two hours, including small items like dental arches in just minutes.
• The Form 4 offers a bigger build volume, enhanced monitoring capabilities, and various connectivity options including Wi-Fi 5 and USB-C.
• Formlabs is introducing new resins at a lower cost and will also sell a Form 4B version of the printer for medical and dental use.
• The Form 4 boasts faster printing speeds, a 30% increase in build volume, and high print resolution, catering to rapid prototyping and medical fields.

Analysis

Formlabs' unveiling of the Form 4 3D printer introduces a game-changing technology that could significantly impact various industries. The increased print speed and resolution, along with expanded connectivity options and lower-cost resins, will likely disrupt traditional manufacturing and medical/dental sectors. Organizations relying on rapid prototyping and medical/dental equipment production may experience improved efficiency and cost savings. The adoption of the Form 4 could also lead to heightened competition among 3D printer manufacturers and stimulate innovation in the industry. In the long term, this advancement may shift the dynamics of manufacturing processes and medical device production, driving further advancements and market changes.

Did You Know?

• Masked Stereolithography (mSLA): This is a 3D printing technique that uses a LCD screen and bright backlight to cure resin layers, resulting in faster print speeds and high resolution. The technique involves selectively curing a resin using a light source that is masked by a LCD screen, allowing for precise and efficient printing.

• Form 4B Version for Medical and Dental Use: Formlabs will offer a specialized version of the Form 4 3D printer for medical and dental use. This version will cater to the specific requirements of these industries, potentially featuring optimized materials, print settings, and capabilities tailored for applications in healthcare.