New 3D Printer

[Neil WyattModerator @neilwyatt]

Roland ARM-10

[Neil WyattModerator @neilwyatt]

I know that only a modest (but growing) proportion of of MEW readers are interested in buying a 3D printer. Nevertheless, I'm posting a shortened version of a press release (below) as some forum members will no doubt be interested in what you can get an investment of £3,999, as this is a desktop resin printer using a UV-optical system, with results superior to what you might expect from a basic 'Reprap'.

**LINK**

3rd September 2014 — Roland DG Corporation, the world’s leading manufacturer of wide-format inkjet printers and 3D devices, announced today the release of the monoFab series, including the company’s first 3D additive rapid prototyping machine, the ARM-10, and a new 3D subtractive prototyping and manufacturing machine, the SRM-20.

“The monoFab series desktop fabrication solutions are the culmination of over 25 years of experience in 3D milling and the company’s first foray into 3D printing,” said Akio Kawai, Roland DG general manager of 3D market development. “By combining the merits of each device, users can select the best method for their workflow every step of the way, from inspiration to production. With no limits to production methods, ideas can expand to their fullest potential and new possibilities in innovation can be realised. We hope the monoFab series tools will inspire those who wish to create the future and explore all their creative abilities.”

The ARM-10 3D printer is ideal for quickly checking a design in the initial stage of prototyping or modelling a complex shape. Incorporating a stereo-lithography process with a UV-LED projection system, the ARM-10 builds models by sequentially curing layers of resin from a liquid resin vat. Simultaneous production of multiple objects can be accomplished within the same work area, reducing modelling time when compared to methods where lasers expose specific areas. Roland’s imageCure resin becomes semi-transparent when cured and post-processing procedures such as support* removal and polishing are simple to do. By adopting a suspended build system, resin consumption is minimised.

Taking advantage of more than 25 years of Roland DG experience in manufacturing 3D devices, the evolutionary SRM-20 desktop milling machine incorporates several innovative subtractive rapid prototyping (SRP) features to meet the needs of a new era. The SRM-20’s strengths lie in providing outstanding accuracy and smooth finished surfaces. With its new milling spindle, collet, circuit board and firmware, the SRM-20 delivers maximum speed and precision while retaining a compact desktop size. The SRM-20 can mill a variety of non-proprietary materials typically used for prototyping, including modelling board, acrylic, ABS, wood and modelling wax, making it possible to check the weight and feel of models using the same material properties as the final production. An interlocked full cover prevents dust from escaping during milling for safe operation and clean environment.

For ultimate peace of mind, both the ARM-10 and SRM-20 come with a 1 year UK RolandCare warranty.

To find out more visit http://www.rolanddg.co.uk/monofab

*These temporary parts provide support in order to prevent deformities or drops occurring during layering and are removed upon completion.

[JasonBModerator @jasonb]

I hope you have asked them to send one so you can do a long term test for MEW

[Neil WyattModerator @neilwyatt]

I was tempted…

Neil

[Russell EberhardtParticipant @russelleberhardt48058]

Looks good but I don't think the household management will approve spending that much

Russell.

[MuzzerParticipant @muzzer]

Looks like a cut above the normal 3D printers which are little more than hobby grade. They are probably worth the extra cost but only for professional use. I'd love to try one….

I'm a little surprised that they are trying the "1 year warranty included" caper. Whoopee. You might expect that from the ignorant youth in Currys who is on commission for pushing the "extended warranty" scam but in the UK the warranty is potentially several years by law – and certainly more than 1 year. Hopefully this is typically Japanese and reliable to start with.

Murray

[jason udallParticipant @jasonudall57142]

Stating the obvious..this is a uv cure epoxy machine. ..great for resolution but when finished the psrts are not considered functional……just saying…and expoxy consumables are still expensive.

If epoxy printers are plausable for you…Google "peachy" printer…

A diy machine using epoxy fab.

And a novel "Z" axis.

[StovepipeParticipant @stovepipe]

And apart from the cost of consumables, machine cost =" £3999 + VAT" ???

Dennis

[Neil WyattModerator @neilwyatt]

Many here would pay more than that for a lathe or mill, with or without CNC.

However, I didn't realise the limitations of epoxy parts, also the machine has a workspace of only about 110x70x70mm

Neil

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