3D Printing News Briefs: January 27, 2020

In today’s 3D Printing News Briefs, it’s all about new machines and materials. Wicked Engineering launched an updated version of its CUREbox, and Makeblock is introducing a new 3D printer for STEAM education. In addition, The Virtual Foundry is creating custom metal materials for 3D printing.

Wicked Engineering Launching CUREbox Plus UV Post-Cure Oven

East Coast company Wicked Engineering introduced its commercial-grade CUREbox for UV post-curing of 3D prints back in 2017. Now, it’s launching the CUREbox Plus, which has all of the standard features from the original oven and adds some unique new ones. It features a wide temperature range from 30-80°C, so it heats up quickly, and it includes Dental One-Touch Presets for easy use in the dental industry. Just like its predecessor, the CUREbox Plus is clean-room friendly, works with virtually all photosensitive resins on the market, and offers a large 12 x 12 x 6.25″ chamber.

“Those who demand the most from their 3D printed parts understand the importance of post-curing,” stated Wicked Engineering in a press release announcing the launch of the new CUREbox Plus. ” Properly cured 3D printed parts have mechanical properties far superior to those that are improperly cured. Proper post-curing requires precision equipment with a specific wavelength and intensity light source, time control, and temperature control. The CUREbox and CUREbox Plus from Wicked Engineering provide all of this for use by the 3D printing community.”

Makeblock Introduces 3D Printer for STEAM Education

Global STEAM education solutions provider Makeblock attended the BETT London show this week to show off its latest addition – the versatile mCreate 3D printer, which was designed for classroom use. The mCreate, which also doubles as a laser engraver, has features to help kids tap into their creativity, and completes the company’s STEAM education ecosystem. 3D printing is steadier with the system’s patented smart nozzle, which has an AI-powered detection module, and smart leveling ensures reliable prints. Makeblock’s mBuild electronic modules can be integrated as well, so students can make their own fun projects.

“I grew up without the opportunity to learn hands-on with technology. At Makeblock, we believe the threshold to accessing technology should be lowered to enable more people to transform their creative ideas into reality. For the workforce of the future, it’s even more important to make STEAM learning tools available to every child. Our full product line helps achieve this,” said Makeblock Founder and CEO Jasen Wang.

The Virtual Foundry Developing Custom 3D Printing Materials

Five years ago, Wisconsin materials startup The Virtual Foundry launched a line of high-quality metal composite filaments called Filamet. The company is continuing to focus on custom materials for additive manufacturing that have been formulated to help engineers and designers solve challenges. The Virtual Foundry created a patented way to infuse plastic binder into ceramic, glass, and metal materials and form them into filaments for FDM printers. This allows for a much less expensive way to print parts with these materials. The company has received many exotic materials requests, such as powdered metal mixed with an additive to form strong tool steel; metals impregnated with strong carbon fibers; corrosion-resistant metals; and metals that either can’t be cast or are too brittle to be machined once cast.

“The Virtual Foundry is a materials company. Developing new materials for additive manufacturing is our sole focus,” said Tricia Suess, president of The Virtual Foundry.

“Our focus is on advancing the science of powdered material technology. We apply this unique knowledge to the production of filaments of exotic composite materials.

“From defense and aerospace agencies to auto manufacturers and foundries, we’re helping a variety of customers solve some of their biggest design and engineering challenges.”

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