EnvisionTEC is introducing hardware update to its family of large-frame 3SP 3D printers to deliver best-in-class, 25-micron resolution. The company will now offer XY resolution of 25 microns ― equivalent to about half the cross-section of a human hair — in two of its largest 3D printers: the Vector UHD 3SP, with a build area of 300 x 200 x 275 mm (11.8 x 7.9 x 10.8 in.) and the Xede UHD 3SP, with a build area of 457 x 457 x 457 mm (18 x 18 x 18 in.)

The improved performance is made possible with a new FPGA (field-programmable gate array) control board that allows EnvisionTEC to turn its laser on and off in the Y scanning direction with lightning-fast speed.

“With this hardware upgrade, EnvisionTEC can now offer the same level of resolution in our 3SP family that we are known for with our Perfactory printer family.”

Al Siblani, CEO, EnvisionTEC.

A demonstration board 3D printed on a Vector UHD 3SP will be on display this week in Fort Worth, Texas, at Rapid + TCT. EnvisionTEC will also be showcasing other new 3D printer and material innovations in Booth 1304.

3SP technology story

Launched in 2013, EnvisionTEC’s patented 3SP (Scan, Spin and Selectively Photocure) technology uses a unique laser-based process to cure photopolymers in a large vat up to 457 x 457 x 457 mm (18 x 18 x 18 in) in the Xede 3SP model. While conventional SLA systems use an expensive solid-state laser to draw out parts layer by layer, often reflecting the beam off galvo mirrors in a large build area, the 3SP approach is simple and efficient.

A multi-cavity diode laser is reflected off a spinning mirrored drum that can efficiently scan across a very large vat to cure material. Essentially, the laser draws in straight lines in the Y direction, with the beam simply turning on or off to cure the necessary shape as the complete laser assembly moves in the X direction. A white paper detailing how 3SP is superior to SLA for manufacturing and production can be found at EnvisionTEC.com/learn3SP.

Adoption of 3SP continues to grow as knowledge about the technology and portfolio of materials expands. The 3SP line is popular among dental laboratories printing large volumes of dental models, but users also include manufacturers in a variety of industries, including medical devices, automotive, aerospace, consumer goods and more.