04-02-2019: Formlabs introduced the Form 3 and Form 3L 3D printers
Along with its proprietary version of SLA technology—LFS (Low Force Stereolithography)
On April 2, 2019, Formlabs unveiled The Form 3 and The Form 3L—two next-generation 3D printers based on the newly announced proprietary LFS (Low Force Stereolithography) printing technique. This was a modified version of traditional SLA, incorporating a new flexible resin tank to reduce peeling forces during the printing process. Draft Resin was also introduced, allowing for faster prototyping with 300-micron layers, speeding up the process by up to four times compared to standard settings.
LFS is an advanced variation of stereolithography, offering even greater precision than traditional SLA. It uses a laser beam to cure photopolymer resins, but thanks to Formlabs' innovations—including flexible resin tanks and linear illumination—the laser beam cures resin at a consistent angle, ensuring high accuracy in 3D printing.
The Form 3 featured a 145 x 145 x 185 mm build volume, enabling the production of medium-sized objects with a high XY resolution of 25 microns. It was compatible with a wide range of Formlabs resins, including standard, engineering, dental, and biocompatible materials, making it a versatile tool for various industries.
As a large-format 3D printer, the Form 3L was equipped with a dual optical system and two resin cartridge chambers. Two laser beams worked simultaneously to cure the resin, ensuring faster production of large objects. The printer's build volume was 20 × 33.5 × 30 cm.
The LFS system reduced mechanical stresses on printed objects, minimizing the risk of defects and improving reliability. Additionally, built-in sensors monitored the process in real-time, automatically adjusting print conditions.
Both The Form 3 and The Form 3L operated with a laser spot size of 85 microns. Users could choose layer heights ranging from 25 to 300 microns, allowing them to prioritize precision or speed depending on their needs.
Source: www.centrumdruku3d.pl
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