Formnext 2016: 3D Printing Pauses for a Reality Check

The RAM 123 from EnvisionTEC and Viridis3D is a flexible robotic arm 3D printing platform for creating sand molds and foundry cores. Image courtesy of Randall Newton. |The 3D Systems ProX DMP 320 is aimed at high volume users of metal printing. Image courtesy of Randall Newton. |Nyomo claims its Minny is the smallest 3D printer on the market. The build size in millimeters is 44x28x70. Suitable materials include some certified for medical use. Image courtesy of Randall Newton. |A duplicate of the titanium handle bar from the bicycle that won the 2016 Tour de France, printed on an Arcam EBM 3D printer. Image courtesy of Randall Newton. |Xjet is bringing to market in 2017 a new printing technology it calls nanoparticle jetting, which offers high quality parts in metal or ceramics. The inkjets distribute droplets of either build material or support material. High temperatures inside the build envelope evaporate the liquid jacket around each nanoparticle. Sintering completes the process. Images courtesy of Xjet.|Terry Wohlers addresses Formnext attendees. Image courtesy of formnext.