Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services


3D printer for rapid prototyping

23 October 2019 Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services

RS Components is shipping the latest version of the MakerBot 3D printer – the MakerBot Method – which has been designed to bridge the gap between industrial and desktop 3D printing. The unit targets engineers and designers who use 3D modelling software and need to create product prototypes rapidly for a range of purposes, such as to accelerate product development or to ensure the viability of parts before moving to volume production.

A key feature of the Method is its fast printing speed, which is up to two times faster than other popular desktop 3D printers, based on a range of tests using the same layer height and in-fill density settings. Use of the printer can save days or potentially weeks compared to the time taken to outsource prototyping via other additive manufacturing methods or CNC machining, for example.

Another advantage is the unit’s industrial reliability and precision: for example, the Method has a circulating heated chamber, which controls the heat of each layer and delivers a dimensional accuracy of ±0,2 mm, as well as improved layer adhesion and greater part strength. The unit also has a structurally optimised ultra-rigid metal frame that runs the full length of the body, which leads to more consistent prints with better part accuracy and fewer failures, as well as offsetting flexing or warping of printed objects.

The Method also comes with dual high-performance extruders, which offer lengthened thermal cores and optimised torque to maximise the material flow rate at high speeds. In addition, it has an extensive suite of sensors with a network of 21 intelligent devices embedded throughout to deliver enhanced control over the printing process.

Other specifications include: layer resolution from 400 down to 20 microns; maximum build volumes of 19 x 19 x 19,6 cm for single- and 15,2 x 19 x 19,6 cm for dual-extrusion processes; and connectivity options including Wi-Fi, Ethernet or USB drive.

Also supplied with the printer is high-precision material from MakerBot, including a spool of tough and a spool of precision dissolving PVA, which enables the easy removal of support material without compromising part design or dimensional accuracy.

The printer comes with a 12-month warranty and is compatible with a range of leading CAD software packages including SolidWorks, Autodesk, CATIA, Rhino and TinkerCAD.


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Soldering day highlights
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
JAPAN UNIX has published a new event report and highlight video from their UNIX SOLDERING DAY 2026 in Hungary. This event reflects on their commitment to supporting manufacturers not only through soldering automation systems, but also through technical education, live demonstrations, hands-on training, and practical engineering know-how.

Read more...
Clearing the Static: Electrostatic Discharge
Actum Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
A cordless ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) wrist strap does not work by grounding the person in the same way as a traditional wired wrist strap. Instead, it works by reducing or balancing the static charge on your body so that you are less likely to discharge electricity into sensitive electronic components.

Read more...
Engineering trust in South Africa’s SMT sector
ZETECH ONE Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
From a small Johannesburg start-up to a trusted SMT technology partner, Zetech One has spent four decades helping South African electronics manufacturers improve production quality, efficiency and reliability.

Read more...
The new reality of PCB material supply
Jemstech Editor's Choice Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
How resilient manufacturing strategies are helping OEMs navigate a changing global supply chain.

Read more...
Streamlining Device Programming with the AutoBee-D1
Vepac Electronics Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
The AutoBee-D1 desktop automated programmer is designed to simplify the programming of devices, while delivering consistent accuracy, high throughput and reduced manual intervention.

Read more...
Zero PFAS die attach paste
Testerion Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
With silver price volatility increasing and sustainability requirements accelerating across semiconductor assembly, MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions introduces ATROX CD 560-1, a zero per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) alternate silver filler die attach paste.

Read more...
Precision jet printing for advanced PCB designs
MyKay Tronics Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Mycronic’s BA 01 small dot ejector delivers unmatched precision in solder paste jet printing for advanced PCB designs.

Read more...
Strengthening local electronics manufacturing through investment and innovation
Microtronix Manufacturing Editor's Choice Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Microtronix South Africa cements its commitment to local manufacturing with ongoing investments in production capacity, skills development, and job creation.

Read more...
Polypropylene pole-top boxes support smarter, more secure electricity networks
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services Enclosures, Racks, Cabinets & Panel Products
As South Africa accelerates the rollout of smart prepaid electricity metering, innovative enclosure technology from Power Process Systems (PPS) is helping utilities improve network security, reduce electricity theft and protect critical electrical infrastructure.

Read more...
200 W of power in a space-saving design
Vepac Electronics Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
The Hakko FX-972 Soldering Station delivers high-performance soldering in a compact package, making it suitable for a wide range of soldering applications.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved