Tri-Tech 3D, based in Stoke-on-Trent, is launching the Stratasys F3300 in the UK market, a new fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3-D printer that can print twice as fast as alternative printers, while offering significant improvements in cost per part and reliability. The machine’s increased gantry speeds, quicker extrusion rates and automated calibration help save time, improve uptime and increase throughput. The system is currently on pre-order with shipping scheduled for the second quarter of 2024.
The new 3-D printer is primarily designed for end use part production but can also be used for prototyping. Featuring four print heads and easy-to-recycle spools, the F3300 allows operators to pre-load and print in different materials and colours to achieve a high-quality end product. The machine comes with a tool changer to allow operators to switch between the four print heads and a heated chamber allowing for multi-resolution and multi-colour while improving mechanical properties, and operators can adjust the print speed and layer height to produce parts with intricate details. Its advanced software means that the machine fills voids in a way that allows for higher part density resulting in stronger parts.
Rob Pitts, sales manager at Tri-Tech 3D, said: “Because the machine features four material chambers, operators can print large parts without having to stop to reload the material spools. The spool size and design means users can save 25% of their material cost. Coupled with significantly faster printing times and reduced downtime, 45% lower cost per part can be achieved.”
The machine’s added sensors will enable predictive maintenance to prevent machine downtime and ensure quality parts. The strain gauges on the extruders enable the system to signal when parameters such as push force, position, temperature, or velocity are incorrect, preventing the machine from printing a part that will fail.
He added: “If moisture enters a typical 3-D printer, it can turn into vapour when extruded, creating air bubbles in the part and reducing part quality,” said Yann Rageul, VP commercial enablement additive manufacturing at Stratasys. To prevent this from happening, the F3300 is equipped with integrated material dryers to eliminate poor quality and failed parts due to material moisture, key for enhancing printer reliability and part strength.”
Tri-Tech 3D is the UK and Ireland’s foremost supplier of Stratasys 3-D printers, offering servicing, support, maintenance and consumables for all 3-D printers.