FIGURE 4 3D PRINTERS

Figure 4 Introduction

What is Figure 4 technology?

3D Systems' Figure 4 technology is a tool-less, massively scalable, additive manufacturing process that speeds and simplifies the production of plastic parts. Figure 4 technology that drives digital production comprises an array of super-fast membrane micro-DLP (Digital Light Processing) printers. The array enables the digital production process to take advantage of parallel processing efficiencies. Digital production as implemented by 3D Systems is massively scalable and can operate within automated production lines. It can handle long- and short-run batches and allows fast switching of production to different parts. Thus gives manufacturers the ability to quickly iterate a design and immediately manufacture an end-use part.

More about Figure 4...

Figure 4 is an ultra-fast projection-based additive manufacturing (AM) technology designed to help users seamlessly transition from prototyping to production. Available in different configurations that vary in footprint, capacity, and versatility, Figure 4 uses a non-contact membrane to combine accuracy and amazing detail fidelity with fast print speeds. Together with its quick post-processing, Figure 4 is a workhorse solution for a variety of applications across industries, at any stage.

Yet going from prototype to production is a multi-step process. Finding the right approach to move from design verification, to functional prototyping, to end-use parts requires the convergence of multiple variables. Beyond part accuracy, repeatability, and operational costs, suitable materials are paramount. Unlike other photopolymer 3D printing, Figure 4 is capable of manufacturing parts in hybrid materials (multi-mode polymerization) that offer toughness, durability, biocompatibility, high temperature deflection, and even elastomeric properties. This opens the door to new end-use applications in the fields of durable goods, automotives, aerospace, healthcare and beyond.

Figure 4 Applications

With Figure 4 versatility, you can use the same printer for rapid iteration, functional prototyping, design verification, end-use parts for low volume production and replacement parts, digital texturing applications, jewelry casting patterns, rapid tooling of molds, master patterns, jigs and fixtures.

General

Design verification models
Functional prototypes and parts
Complex assemblies
Under-the-hood and in-cabin components
General-used production parts
Parts with special mechanical prop. (FR, elastomeric, high-thermal resistance)

Tooling and patterns

Investment casting patterns
Sacrificial patterns for metal casting
Custom assembly jigs and fixtures
Low pressure molding/tooling
Overmolding
Casting silicon parts
Jewelry master patterns

Biocompatible materials

Surgical handles and surgical tooling
Hearing aids
Clinical trials
Medical devices

Figure 4 Materials

The broad and expanding range of materials available for Figure 4 addresses a wide variety of applications needs, for functional prototyping, direct production of end-use parts, molding and casting, and includes rigid and durable with thermoplastic-like behaviors, rubber-like, castable, heat resistant and biocompatible capable materials.

Rigid

Similar aesthetics and properties to injection-molded ABS.

Tough & Durable

Look and feel of polypropylene.

Clear

A clear, production-grade material offering long-term stability and clarity

Rubber

Production-grade rubber with exceptional surface finish and long-term environmental stability.

Biocompatible

For medical and industrial parts that require biocompatibility, sterilization and/or thermal resistance.

Castable

Next generation jewelry castable material for high-resolution patterns.

Molding

Process-optimized material for sacrificial tooling to cast silicone.

High Thermal Resistance

High temperature resistant translucent plastic with HDT over 300 °C.

Flame Retardant

UL94 V0 rated flame-retardant production plastic

*Note: Not all materials are available in all countries – please consult your local sales representative for availability.

MATERIAL FINDER

Figure 4 Benefits

Low Total Cost of Operations

Fast Turnaround & Throughput

Consistent, High Quality Output

Broad Range of Materials

3D Systems Figure 4 enables companies to move directly into manufacturing from a digital CAD file, bypassing tooling costs and delays to start delivering final parts immediately.

Figure 4 PRO-BLK 10 Material with Thermoplastic-Like Properties Provides Time and Cost Savings with Tool-Less Digital Production of Precision Plastic Parts

Stacking build-up printing with 3D Systems Figure 4

The combination of speed and accuracy complemented by a light-based UV curing process that takes minutes vs. hours with heat-based curing processes, enable to achieve same-day fuctional prototyping and low volume production for output volumes of up to 500 parts per month, with ultra-high speeds up to 100mm/hour.

Print detailed and accurate part with 3D Systems Figure 4.

Powered by non-contact membrane Figure 4 technology, 3D Systems Figure 4 offers quality, accuracy, and Six Sigma repeatability (Cpk > 2) with industrial-grade durability, service, and support. Figure 4 was designed for ease-of-use and includes file preparation and print management with 3D Systems 3D Sprint software.

Figure 4's broad range of innovative, production-grade materials opens new applications in additive production.

3D Systems’ Material Design Center has over 30 years of proven R&D experience and process development expertise. The broad and expanding range of materials available for Figure 4 addresses a wide variety of applications needs, for functional prototyping, direct production of end-use parts, molding and casting.