Massachusetts-based Formlabs has launched its latest 3D printers, the Form 4 and Form 4B, offering significant advancements in speed, cost efficiency, and material versatility, set to transform prototyping and production across multiple sectors.
In a significant leap forward for the 3D printing industry, Massachusetts-based Formlabs has introduced its latest innovation, the Form 4 and Form 4B 3D printers. This technology promises unprecedented print speeds and reliability, catering predominantly to professionals across various sectors. With these new models, Formlabs continues to build on its reputation as a pioneering force in the additive manufacturing sphere.
The Form 4, designed for general professional use, and the Form 4B, tailored for healthcare applications, deliver exceptional functionality that could reshape how industries approach prototyping through production. Both machines boast the revolutionary Low Force Display™ (LFD) print engine that significantly enhances the speed and quality of 3D printing. Notably, Form 4 can complete prints up to five times faster than its predecessor, Form 3+, making it possible to turn around small part cycle times in mere minutes and most other parts in under two hours.
Cost efficiency is also a standout feature, with Formlabs reporting a 40% reduction in cost per part compared to previous iterations. This has been achieved through innovations such as long-lasting resin tanks and an enhanced Light Processing Unit, both designed to extend the printer’s operational life and maintain high throughput.
The updated series also sees an expansion in the variety of compatible materials. Formlabs has unveiled six new resins, including reformulated General Purpose Resins and specialised options for rapid prototyping and precise dental work. This extends the versatility of the Form 4, enabling it to serve a broader range of applications from engineering to healthcare.
Industry response has been overwhelmingly positive. At Microsoft, the Form 4 has become the go-to resource for projects requiring tight tolerances with engineering-grade materials, while Ford Motor Company highlights the printer’s ability to drive efficiency in product development through its rapid prototyping capabilities.
This product launch positions Formlabs at the forefront of the 3D printing industry, reinforcing its role as a key player in the move toward more agile, cost-effective manufacturing solutions. As they continue to innovate and expand their material library, their influence on how professionals across various industries design, prototype, and produce is likely to grow, setting new standards in the reliability and utility of 3D printing technology.