The new material, faster post-processing, and software updates enhance production 3D printing.
Formlabs introduced two additions to its SLA ecosystem: a fast-curing solution and a durable resin. The new Form Cure post-cures parts in as little as 60 seconds, while the updated Tough 1500 Resin offers mechanical properties similar to polypropylene, expanding its use in production applications.
Tough 1500 Resin improves toughness to better match injection-molded parts
Last year, Formlabs launched Form 4 and Form 4L, improving the speed and cost efficiency of 3D printing to align more closely with injection molding. However, differences in toughness and durability remain between 3D-printed and injection-molded parts.
The new Tough 1500 Resin v2 improves fracture toughness, impact resistance, and elongation at break, making it more comparable to polypropylene. These enhancements provide greater durability, reducing the likelihood of cracking or fracturing while maintaining material properties over time.
Fast post-curing with Form Cure (2nd generation)
SLA 3D-printed parts require post-curing to achieve their final properties. Formlabs has introduced the new Form Cure, designed to speed up this process within its SLA ecosystem. When used with Form 4 Series 3D printers, it reduces curing time by 2x-8x compared to the first-generation Form Cure. The second-generation Form Cure heats to 60°C in 60 seconds, allowing general-purpose resins to cure in 60 seconds and engineering resins in under 15 minutes.
This improved post-processing workflow helps users iterate faster and increase production efficiency.
New, powerful printer fleet management tools for free with dashboard
New features in Dashboard, Formlabs’ free, online print management software, give users access to powerful tools for streamlining collaboration. These include Group Queues for automated print assignment and Cloud Slicing for faster processing, all in one platform.
New PreForm features streamline workflows
Formlabs also continued updating PreForm software with user-requested features including:
- Seven language options: English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Japanese, and Chinese
- Add to a Running Job” for SLS 3D printers, enabling the addition of parts to an in-progress print job for maximum efficiency
- Model grouping to simplify the management of multiple parts
- Bulk Model Import improves organization and efficiency for dental labs, service bureaus, and others handling high volumes of models
To learn more, visit formlabs.com.
