MakerBot Unveils Solution to Simplify the ABS 3D Printing Workflow

MakerBot introduces a new solution that simplifies 3D printing with ABS polymer material by streamlining workflow steps and reducing the need for more equipment and additional costs, the company says. The new MakerBot RapidRinse and ABS-R materials are suited to print a range of industrial applications to specification, from manufacturing tools to production parts, the company adds.

RapidRinse is a new fast-dissolving support material designed to eliminate costly post-processing procedures, the company reports. RapidRinse dissolves in warm tap water and does not require caustic chemicals. RapidRinse can dissolve quickly, according to MakerBot. Without need for solvents, engineers no longer need to purchase additional post-processing equipment, the company adds. RapidRinse’s water soluble properties are intended to make it an easier, safer support material to work with, leaving behind minimal residue.

ABS-R is a new ABS formulation that provides printing reliability and performance for consistent, repeatable ABS prototypes, tools and parts, according to MakerBot. ABS-R is optimized to work with the new RapidRinse fast-dissolving support material to deliver print quality.

The METHOD X’s heated chamber, a VECT (Variable Environmental Controlled Temperature) 110 Technology, combined with RapidRinse soluble supports are designed to deliver ABS parts as easily as PLA, according to MakerBot. Printing with RapidRinse on METHOD X can produce dimensionally accurate ABS parts of ±0.2mm (±0.007 inch)2, giving engineers more confidence in creating parts to spec.

“Our goal with METHOD has always been to make industrial 3D printing easy, reliable, and accurate on a desktop 3D printer. With RapidRinse and ABS-R, we are continuing to deliver on that promise,” says Nadav Goshen, CEO, MakerBot. “METHOD is the only desktop 3D printer in its price class with a heated chamber that can print a range of advanced polymers, composites, and metal—all on one machine. Further, RapidRinse is another step we are taking with Stratasys in our ongoing efforts to support sustainable manufacturing practices and industry safety standards.”

The addition of RapidRinse and ABS-R further strengthens METHOD X’s portfolio of advanced engineering-grade materials. MakerBot materials for METHOD are formulated to meet the highest standards. METHOD X can print the same polymers, composites and metals found in familiar manufacturing processes—from injection molding to machining—due to its environmental control features. Its six-in-one modular extruder platform also allows for a quick change between material groups, preventing cross-contamination and faster extruder degradation.

RapidRinse and ABS-R are expected to begin shipping in December 2021. For more information, click here. 

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.