3D Printing is an additive manufacturing process. It utilizes CNC code generated from the combination of a 3D CAD File and software to produce extremely unique parts. We currently focus on using fused deposition modeling (FDM) printer. This style of 3D printer allows us to print a using a wide array of materials. Carbon fiber, ABS, PLA, PET, and PA (Nylon) would be considered the most common materials we use. 3d printing allows us to be more innovative in our machine designs. Incorporating additive manufacturing can set us apart from other companies.
The Bambu Labs X1E has raised the bar when it comes to speed and material types. We are now able to produce parts around twice as fast as we have in the past. Due to the higher temperature capabilities above 600° we are able to use more diverse material types. This allows us to create stronger parts and is some cases more flexible parts. The printing chamber is heated to create a more stable printing environment.
The Ultimaker 3D Printer allows the use of 6 reels a media at one time. All materials can be the same or different depending on the demand of the part being manufactured. We find it useful to use the Ultimaker for prints that require a large amount of supporting material during the printing of the part. As the layers are printed supporting material such as PVA which is water-soluble is also printed along with the main material. The Ultimaker has two print heads this is helpful in saving time as one head will always have the main material and the other can be used for supportive material limiting the need to change materials in heads often.