Founded in 2011 by three MIT Media Lab students, Massachusetts-based Formlabs is now a major player in the 3D printing industry.
In 2013, the American 3D printer manufacturer introduced one of its first machines, the Form 1. Since then, Formlabs has come a long way and has gradually established itself as a leader in the additive manufacturing sector. Today, the company is considered by many to be one of the main references in resin 3D printing, in particular thanks to its range of Form machines. Based on LFS (Low Force Stereolithography) technology, patented by Formlabs, these machines are intended for various sectors, such as jewelry and medical. Formlabs machines are also applicable to the dental sector.
At the same time, the Boston-based company has also embarked on SLS technology. In 2017, the company introduced the Fuse 1, a 3D printer that stands out from other SLS machines because of its price, which the manufacturer claims is much lower. And thanks to the selective laser sintering (SLS) process, the Fuse 1 allows its users to create complex parts with strong mechanical properties from nylon, without print supports.
As well as 3D printers, Formlabs also offers a post-processing solution named ‘Fuse Sift’. This is an efficient powder recovery system for use with the Fuse 3D printer. It offers part extraction, powder recovery, storage, and mixing in a single device. The negative air pressure within the system traps the powder inside while allowing the user to have open access and easy cleanup of the machine.
