3D Proto Introduces flexFORM 3D Printer, Equipped with Auto-Grip Technology

October 31, 2014 by Heidi Milkert 3D Printers 3D Printing

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As we approach the holiday season, there will likely be a mad rush of manufacturers bringing their 3D printers to market, hoping to capitalize on the influx of rabid buyers looking to purchase 3D printers as a gift for a loved one (or themselves). As we have mentioned so many times in the past, Poland seems to be one of the countries keen or capitalizing on the desktop 3D printing boom.

A Lublin, Poland-based company called 3D Proto, led by CEO Piotr Hołubowicz, is one such company. They have just launched what they feel is one of the more simple, easy-to-use 3D printers to ever hit the market, with the flexForm.

What sets the flexFORM Plug & Print apart from other 3D printers is its simplicity. In addition to an auto bed leveling system built in, the machine also features quite the unique auto-grip system which allows the user to place a spool of filament into a slot at the base of the machine, and automatically have the machine grasp the end of the spool, and feed it up to the nozzle.

The entire user interface of the flexFORM is controlled on a 7-inch touchscreen tablet which is included with the machine and is tethered to its front face. The tablet can easily be removed, allowing the user to control the printer from the sofa, kitchen table, or wherever else in the house or office they may be, without the need for a computer hookup.

Further specifications of this 3D printer:

Printer Technology: FDM
Printer Size: 21.9 × 21.1 × 22.5 in
Printer Weight: 17 kg
Build Volume: 7.87 × 7.87 × 7.08 in
Print Resolution 50-100 microns
Nozzle Diameter: 0.5mm
Max. Nozzle Temperature: 240°C
Max. Bed Temperature: 120°C
Compatible File Types: STL, AMF, OBJ, GCode
Software: Forge

As for the aesthetics of the flexForm, let’s just say it’s not one of those printers you will want to hide away in a corner or a garage. Its design is truly a sight to be seen, one which I would certainly be proud to show off. The sturdy black aluminum case is outlined in LED lights, as the printer fabricates your next amazing creation.

The printer is available immediately at a price of $1,800. 3D Proto has also informed us that they expect to announce further news very soon. Let us know your thoughts on this new printer. Are you considering purchasing one? Discuss in the flexForm 3D Printer forum thread on 3DPB.com. Check out the video provided by 3D Proto below: