Formlabs

Formlabs: Experience and development

Formlabs was founded in 2011 by 3 MIT Media Lab students. Since its inception, its purpose was to develop an easy-to-use and affordable stereolithographic 3D printer for all users. In October 2012, Formlabs launches its first 3D printer, Form 1, through a Kickstarter campaign.

Form 1 was an SLA printer that obtained good finishes, but with long manufacturing time. In 2014, it launched Form 1+, much faster than its predecessor and increasing surface quality. Shortly after, the spectacular Form 2 comes out. This 3D SLA printer reduces the process that the user must perform to a minimum: you simply have to generate the print file and press a button on the printer itself, so that the design is actually transformed. In 2019, Formlabs revolutionizes the market again with its Form 3 and Form 3L,  two printers with a new printing technology (LFS) that reduces manufacturing time, reduces the amount of media and increases print quality.

Resin printers for all users

Something key for a 3D printer to succeed internationally, especially a resin 3D printer, is that its operation is simple and easy. Both Form 2 such as Form 3 and Form 3L are very simple to use, once the print file is generated, the resin cartridge is inserted into the printer, manufacturing is accepted and printing starts immediately. Once finished, the piece is moved to the washing center (Form Wash) and the curing center (Form Cure). With the same level of simplicity, the file for printing is generated thanks to the automatic media generation option in the PreForm. This lamination software is developed by Formlabs for all its printers and resins.

Industrial resins

Formlabs has a series of industrial resins called engineering resins. They are a set of resins developed to solve the most complex engineering challenges thanks to the wide variety of functional materials. In addition, these materials help reduce costs and make prototypes and quality end pieces very quickly.

It also has resins for specific applications, such as its castable resins or its dental resins.