Enhanced 3D printer keeps cap on cost

One year on from the debut of its Dimension uPrint 3D printer and Stratasys (Minneapolis, MN) is adding further functionality to the fused deposition modeling (FDM) tool, while still keeping the price sub-$20,000.

Like the existing Dimension uPrint personal 3D printer, the uPrint Plus has a small footprint (25 by 26 inches) for true desktop use, but it can now print in eight colors of Stratasys ABSplus material (red, blue, olive, black, dark gray, nectarine, fluorescent yellow, and ivory), making it easier for designers to differentiate individual assembly components and better depict their product. The new printer also has a build envelope of 8 by 8 by 6 inches—33% more volume than the uPrint—enabling larger models to be built. The uPrint Plus also offers two resolution settings: 0.010 and 0.013 inch.

Stratasys says that uPrint Plus also features two support-material enhancements that reduce material consumption and modeling time. The first, Smart Supports, is a software enhancement that reduces material usage by 40%. The second, SR-30, is an improved soluble support material that dissolves 69% faster, thus speeding the modeling process. Smart Supports is available for both uPrint and uPrint Plus. The new 3D printer will be available for shipment in March. —[email protected]