Editor’s Pick: Extending direct metal printing ecosystem 

3D Systems introduces three new Direct Metal Printing (DMP) 3D printers as part of its growing ecosystem for metal additive manufacturing. Two of the new printers offer a second laser for faster throughput and increased production flexibility; the third extends existing offerings for dental and similar fine-detail metal printing uses. 

The company says the new dual laser DMP Flex 350 and the DMP Factory 350 reduce build time, accelerating healthcare and industrial production applications. The addition of a second laser can help decrease build time by up to 50%, and at a lower cost than previous models in the series. 

3D Systems says both systems offer an improved vacuum chamber, which reduces argon gas consumption while maintaining best-in-class oxygen purity (<25 ppm). 

A central server manages print jobs, materials, settings and maintenance for 24/7 productivity for the DMP Flex 350 Dual and the DMP Factory 350 Dual. The company says these two new models have been designed using a continuous feedback loop between production teams in advanced manufacturing centers and product development. They are part of the larger 3D Systems DMP ecosystem, which includes LaserForm materials and 3DXpert metal additive manufacturing software.  

DMP Flex 200’s larger build plate and enhanced laser deliver what the company calls industry-leading surface finish, outstanding accuracy and repeatability. The DMP Flex 200 is designed for precision applications including dental applications. A new build plate clamping mechanism eliminates screw management inside the process chamber. An internal vacuum cleaner maintains the process chamber, which remains sealed under inert conditions at all times and cleans all surfaces without powder contact. 

The DMP Flex 200 uses an airlock to pass build plates and powder containers in and out of the process chamber. 3D Systems says this helps avoid exposure to powder and limits oxygen entry into the process chamber. 

The company says all three DMP printers benefit from the use of 3DXpert, an all-in-one software solution for metal additive manufacturing. The software is included with all three printers. 

All three printers are planned to be available during the first quarter of 2022. 

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website. 

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