Arburg Freeformer 750-3X 3D Features Larger Build Chamber

Arburg’s Freeformer 750-3X 3D and Freeformer 200-3X machines are designed as open systems utilizing the company’s Plastic Freeforming (APF) process for custom-configured additive manufacturing (AM). The system is said to meet individual user requirements by adjusting slicing, droplet size and process regulation to influence the layer-by-layer build process utilizing a broad range of materials.

The Freeformer 750-3X features large build chamber which is approximately 2.5 times larger than that of the Freeformer 300-3X. It is well suited for the rapid series production of large components or several articles per construction order. Its printing and space configuration are optimized. The principle of material preparation remains the same in the Freeformer 750-3X, but the entire system — preparation and discharge units — has been optimized so the unit could be designed more compactly. From a strictly external point of view, the machine cannot be distinguished from the 300-3X, as it has the same external dimensions. However, the part carrier is around 2.5 times larger at around 750 m³.

The enlarged build chamber measures 330 mm × 230 mm × 230 mm. The temperatures are kept stable without any special air flow or circulation as a result of several technical innovations. These include optimized melt pressure generators for dosing and injecting, which use servo motors from AMKmotion (an Arburg company). This enables the three discharge units to be positioned more closely to each other and in a more compact way. Due to advanced software features of the control system, it was possible to increase the printing speed considerably. For example, process-optimized latticed support structures can be created where the build time is up to 55% faster than with conventionally constructed ones, the company says. 

The Freeformer 200-3X features special equipment for processing soft materials, such as as TPE in a wide range of shore hardness. Material drying, which is necessary when processing soft materials, is integrated into the machine and programmable via the control system. Due to its gentle plasticizing, it is said the Freeformer 200-3X can also be used to produce components with a high degree of mechanical strength.