Having released the highly successful Form 1 and Form 2 SLA printers, Formlabs is now diversifying into the SLS territory. The Fuse 1 looks like an exciting addition to their portfolio. While there are many new noteworthy aspects of the printer, the price is certainly the main attraction. For an SLS printer, $10,000 sounds like the bargain.
Another factor that makes the Fuse 1 economical is that it can use up to 50% recycled powder. Formlabs is is using this fact as a lynchpin in their marketing. They tout its ability to be a clean, usable and inexpensive device.
Aside from the economic advantages, the Fuse 1 also positions itself as a complete SLS solution. It features a benchtop SLS printer, post-processing capabilities and print management software. Additionally, it remains compact because it doesn’t require specialised gases or specialty equipment. This will allow users to set it up without any special print environments or safe rooms.
It all seems quite perfect, however there are downsides. For one thing, the only materials that the printer can use at this time are Nylon PA 11 and 12. Another issue worth noting is that it is still in a beta phase. This means that the soft launch will come first and the market-ready Fuse 1 will be available after early testers have worked out all the kinks. That said, the device looks incredible so far and may just disrupt the market.
The Fuse 1 beta units start shipping in late 2017.
