Epson develops an industrial 3D printer that can use commonly available materials

Epson has developed an industrial 3D printer that uses commonly available third-party materials to produce strong, accurate industrial parts of various sizes and functions.

The newly developed 3D printer employs a unique material extrusion method using a flat screw (an inline screw with a flattened configuration) like that found in Epson’s precision injection moulding machines. This extrusion method enables the printer to use a variety of common third-party materials, such as resin or metal pellets, generally available at a lower cost than other materials, environmentally considerate biomass pellets, and PEEK materials, which can provide high heat resistance.

In addition, regulating the pressure within the head and controlling the action of the valve in concert with the modelling speed precisely controls the amount of material injected. Additionally, to obtain the strength required, the temperature at the surface of the piece being printed is also controlled.

Epson employs a unique mechanism to achieve this precise temperature control, achieving both strength and accuracy. The new 3D printer  can manufacture strong, accurate parts with commonly available materials, facilitating printer use in the production of industrial parts.

Epson aims to commercialise the printer after further refinements are completed, they are also utilising it internally to volume-produce parts for commercial and industrial equipment.