12-04-2013: 3D Systems unveiled ProJet 1200 micro-SLA 3D printer
The ProJet 1200 was designed with jewelers and dental technicians in mind
On December 4, 2013, 3D Systems unveiled the ProJet 1200 3D printer at the EuroMold trade show, targeting professionals in the jewelry and dental industries, as well as designers of small electronic components. The printer stood out for its compact size, modern design, and relatively low price by 3D Systems' standards.
The ProJet 1200 was based on micro-SLA technology, enabling the production of precise, intricate details. Its build area was just 43 x 27 x 180 mm, clearly positioning the 3D printer for creating small prosthetic or jewelry components. The device offered a resolution of 585 dpi and a layer thickness of only 30 microns. It used VisiJet FTX Green material, supplied in small cartridges resembling butter or jam containers.
With a price of $4,900, it was theoretically very attractive compared to other industrial grade SLA or DLP systems on the market—except, of course, for the Form 1 from Formlabs and the B9 Creator, which heralded the arrival of a new wave of much cheaper 3D printers.
The ProJet 1200 was designed with jewelers and dental technicians in mind. Its compact size made it suitable for desktop use in small workshops. The printer featured an integrated post-curing station within its housing, simplifying the final part preparation process. Additionally, the resin cartridges were ready to use, eliminating the need to clean the resin tank—although this convenience translated to higher cartridge costs.
Finally, it's worth mentioning the noticeable similarities between the ProJet 1200 and the Taiwanese Miicraft printer, which debuted a year earlier. Both used similar technology, had nearly identical designs (differing mainly in color), and shared similar technical specifications.
Source: www.globenewswire.com