Materialise Soon to Roll Out Arcam Build Processor, Simplifies Entire 3D Printing Process

When it comes to automated processes of any sort, we all appreciate the most user friendly, one click platforms, but we want it all as well–high quality, high resolution, speed–and affordability. While this is offered in many different high-tech items, the processes that run such applications usually happen behind the scenes, known only to the programmers writing and maintaining the codes.

While software is where it is at, most of us aren’t consciously thinking about how it works. When users are involved in producing 3D models that go beyond just the hobbyist endeavor, this is even more important. While everyone’s time is valid (disclaimer!), 3D prints that are being produced for high quality components in aerospace or the medical industry need to be done so reliably and at the highest level of quality possible.

When it comes to 3D printing, streamlined is a word bandied about constantly for a reason. When you have spent hours conceptualizing and digitizing a design, the last thing you are up for are a lot of complications at the 3D printer, and especially if there is a deadline involved. Materialise and Arcam recently partnered up to create the Arcam Build Processor, a software vehicle that gives serious 3D printing professionals what they want. It’s all in the control of workflow, which equals efficiency.

As Materialise and Arcam examined the uses required within industries such as those producing orthopedic implants and aerospace parts, they sought to create a way for users to be able to avoid the large STL data stage. They’ve accomplished this with compact file formats and user friendly slice-based operations. Users are easily able to create complex designs involving many of the lightweight lattice structures we’ve seen in 3D printed medical models.

“It combines high performance slicing algorithms with a perfect integration from data preparation, through design and build setup, to part building on the Arcam EBM system,” states the Materialise team on their website. “In addition, the Arcam Build Processor enables feedback from the EBM System, supporting build tracing and build data storage, thus meeting the requirements of manufacturing environments.”

With the new Arcam Build Processor available in just a matter of a few weeks, users can look forward to benefiting from the innovative communication traveling between the 3D printer and its software. The build processor, according to the Materialise team, also receives feedback from the 3D printer, enabling both the tracing and storage of 3D print jobs.

“This provides an unprecedented controlled 3D printing environment, helping meet the rigorous manufacturing requirements of, for example, the medical and aerospace sectors,” states the Materialise team.

In working to perfectly match hardware and software, this certainly is not the first build processor to come from Materialise. With a list to choose from, they can support a wide range of users in simplifying the 3D printing process and making it both more enjoyable–and successful–all around. Click here for more information on build processors by Materialise.

What are your thoughts on this new build processor?  Let us know in the Materialise/Arcam forum thread on 3DPB.com.