Esko, the global supplier of integrated hardware and software solutions for the packaging and wide format sectors, has today, November 17, 2020, announced the release of its innovative VariAngle tool for the Kongsberg C and XP range of digital finishing tables. VariAngle enables cutting at any angle from 0o and 60o at high speeds, delivering total freedom in the design of 3D creative displays while also resulting in faster setup times and an uplift in cutting speed.

“Fitting the new VariAngle tool makes existing Kongsberg C and XP tables completely self-sufficient and capable of delivering most any creative design,” said Digital Finishing Product Manager, Knut Johansen. “Unlike with other brands of finishing table, using VariAngle removes the need to stop production when changing tools, drastically reducing setup time and increasing cutting speed.

“Other finishing tables cut with a fixed angle blade, which means it’s necessary to change tools to cut at different angles,” explained Knut. “For some designs, three or even four different cutting tools can be required in the production process. But with VariAngle, Esko has developed a single tool which cuts straight lines at any angle selection in half-degree increments between 0o and 60o and at up to 100m/min; a breakthrough innovation for the industry.

“In conjunction with the new 3D design features of Esko structural packaging design software ArtiosCAD, the intelligent, automatic VariAngle tool delivers a new level of creativity,” he said.

“Importantly, as well as delivering excellent cut quality at the highest possible speeds, the tool behavior is defined from within the Esko ArtiosCAD structural design software, therefore no operator input is required at the cutting table itself so productivity is boosted by a further 25 per cent.

“The unique combination of the new tool and the supporting functionality in ArtiosCAD delivers true design freedom. For the first time ever, converters can make 60 degree V-notch cuts enabling the making of triangular pillars, something which has been impossible until now as no machine on the market can cut at an angle greater than 45 degrees. It can also cut angled curves, dependent on radius size,” added Knut.

“The obvious efficiency gains, when coupled with the huge level of creative freedom afforded to designers and the fact that it can be retro-fitted to existing Kongsberg C and XP machines, mean that VariAngle has the capacity to provide the cutting edge for sign and POS converters in an increasingly competitive sector.”

Anyone wishing to learn more about VariAngle can do so by visiting the new Esko Innovation Hub (https://innovation.esko.com/en) which has been designed to provide users with a unique insight to the Esko portfolio of innovations in a virtual environment. Users can navigate around the latest integrated hardware and software solutions from Esko, in their own time, accessing insights and technical information, as well as learn new ways to boost business productivity, efficiency and profitability.

For more on new VariAngle from Esko, visit innovation.esko.com

Comprising the new Sonic 4K and Sonic Mini 4K, Phrozen’s latest resin 3D printers offer excellent value and yield fast, professional-grade results. The affordable Sonic Mini 4K version will perfectly suit makers and tech enthusiasts, while the Sonic 4K’s high resolution and speed are a match for dental applications.

Both models use LCD masking, a resin 3D printing technology also known as MSLA (Masked Stereolithography), or simply LCD 3D printing, with a proprietary UV ParaLED system that ensures optimal light intensity and distribution.

Phrozen offers a three-month warranty on the LCD screen and states that the printer can work for over 2,000 hours of 3D printing. The two printers each feature a touchscreen interface– of 2.8 inches or 5 inches depending on the chosen model– that’s available in English (more languages coming soon).

Resolution at its finest
As indicated in the series’ name, the Sonic 4K and Sonic Mini 4K benefit from an ultra-high resolution LCD masking screen for extremely precise and detailed prints.
They also offer a very high point density of 722 PPI; the highest mono-LCD 3D printer PPI ever.

Phrozen prints faster than ever
Whereas most budget resin 3D printers require at least 5 seconds of exposure time per layer, the Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K only takes 2 seconds per layer.
The Phrozen Sonic 4K, which is mainly targeted at professional users in the dental industry, goes even faster at 1 second per layer.

Of course, print speed varies according to the type of resin being used, but Phrozen has significantly improved theirs compared to past and present models.

Sonic 4K vs Sonic Mini 4K: technical specifications
The Sonic 4K does offer a taller build volume (+70mm), but the difference between both versions is not just a matter of size.
Phrozen added a dual rail system to the Sonic 4K version, versus a single rail system on the Sonic Mini 4K, providing long-term print stability and zero wobbling.

The Sonic 4K also benefits from higher light intensity and a 50% faster print speed of 1 second per layer, where the mini model prints at a speed of 2 seconds per layer. In addition, the Sonic 4K is entirely made of steel and is quieter during operation.

Furthermore, the Sonic 4K is equipped with advanced built-in slicing software that helps designers process more complex 3D files, and it is compatible with a larger variety of materials, namely professional dental resins.

These upgrades are necessary for professional applications (dentistry, jewellery, …), but hobbyists on a budget will be more than satisfied with the affordable Sonic Mini 4K’s performance.

Other differences include Ethernet connectivity and a larger touchscreen on the Sonic 4K, for a more intuitive experience, easy access to print settings, and the possibility to control the printer remotely.

Check out the machine in action at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xr831v7gBv8&feature=emb_title

eurolaser, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of laser cutting machines, has successfully tested a range of Brett Martin’s semi-finished plastics on its M-800 laser cutting machine. eurolaser tested Brett Martin’s products at its German test facility and issued certificates for Marcryl FS, Marlon FS, Marpet-a FS and Marpet-g FS, stating that the products were excellent and suitable for laser cutting. The company also successfully routered Brett Martin’s Foamalux on their systems. All eurolaser machines have multiple cutting capabilities due to various tools, such as knife-cutters or routers in parallel with the laser.

The companies’ collaboration is part of Brett Martin’s Approved Partner Programme. The Northern Ireland based plastics manufacturer works closely with a number of credible printing and cutting machine manufacturers to test and showcase the printing and routering capabilities of its semi-finished product portfolio.  

Alexander Wente, eurolaser Product Manager, is happy to award the certificate: "The materials Marcryl FS, Marlon FS, Marpet-a FS and Marpet-g FS are ideally suited for processing with eurolaser cutting systems. Due to the contact-free processing the cut edges are of very good quality and no residues are left behind. Furthermore, mechanical clamping or fixing of the materials is not necessary. This allows a very efficient production process. "

Simona Firth, semi-finished Product Manager added, “It is important for us to work alongside companies such as eurolaser. We need to ensure that our products can be successfully processed on the equipment which our customers use. By collaborating with the world's top manufacturers of wide format and flatbed printers we can ensure that our products are continuously evolving and performing to the highest standards and kept up to date with the latest technology advances.”

The test were carried out on eurolaser’s M-800 laser cutter but the products can be successfully cut on all of eurolaser’s equipment, each of which hold settings for the Brett Martin products in their software.

Visit www.eurolaser.tv/application/2026V1783P.mp4 to view the cutting test. 


For more information about Brett Martin’s products visit www.brettmartin.com. For more information about eurolaser’s machinery visit www.eurolaser.com.

Intec Printing Solutions has introduced three new flatbed models into its digital flatbed cutter range for mid-volume producers. The trio of machines are aimed at customers wanting to handle a more diverse range of media for varied applications.

The three new flatbed models, the FB550, FB750 and FB1150, have been designed to cater to a variety of stocks and sizes ranging from 350 x 520mm up to 740 x 1040mm and can handle paper, boards, synthetic materials, vinyls and kiss cut applications. They cut at speeds up to 600mm per second with an SRA3 taking between 30 – 45 seconds per sheet, depending on job complexity.

The new machines offer ‘a much improved user experience’ via new touch screen controls and the flagship model, the FB1150, comes with an upgraded registration system to include seventh generation ARMS sensing, for faster job retrieval and 300% faster job registration.

All three new models make use of either a CCD video camera or optical sensor and can cut mixed sheets, placed together on the cutting table, in a ‘seamless and uninterrupted flow.’ Both creasing and cutting capabilities are generated via a multi-tool holder with interchangeable tools, that can apply up to 1kg of pressure, supporting the immediate finishing of packaging, POS, prototypes and kiss-cut labels.

Cut jobs are instantly recognised with ColorCut Pro, Intec’s job retrieval software. ColorCut Pro integrates with Adobe Illustrator or CorelDRAW so users have a smooth transition to creating the necessary cut files. When users create their job, ColorCut Pro applies an editable barcode or QR code to each of the designs and saves the cutting file to the ColorCut Pro Job Library which is automatically retrieved when cutting.

‘The launch of the new flatbed range of cutters represents an exciting new phase, in terms of the development of our cutters with a significantly improved user experience through the more responsive and immersive touch panel screens,’ said Mark Baker-Homes, director of product development. ‘Additionally the seventh generation Vision3 ARMS sensor provides almost instant job recognition and lightning fast registration and alignment, enabling any user to cut jobs, which places the Intec cutters at the top of their class. We are ensuring users faster set up and production times providing the ability to deliver a more on-demand environment for the promotional and packaging market.’

Trotec consumables range has just expanded to include TroGlass XT and PETG.

TroGlass XT is the product that model makers, designers, and signage and display manufacturers have been waiting for. This extruded acrylic glass is available in 6 colours and produces an excellent result when laser cut. 

PETG is a clear 0.25mm sheet which is UV stable and tear resistant. This material is suitable for very fine laser cutting and in demand for PPE face shields as well as a stencil material. 

For more information email sales@troteclaser.com.au

LaserMax new Metallics made more than just an impression at the the recent International Awards and Personalization Association Expo held February 19-21, 2020 when the Association presented Rowmark with the award for Best New Product -  Markable Material for their LaserMax Brushed Simulated Metallics product line. 

Rowmark’s LaserMax Brushed Simulated Metallics offer the look of real brushed metal with outdoor weatherable properties and the ease of laser or rotary engraving that are the hallmarks of the LaserMax product line.

“Our team is constantly listening to customer feedback to create new materials that fill a need in the market and easy to fabricate,” said Eric Hausserman, Rowmark President.  “We’re lucky to have a great Product Development Team that combines years of manufacturing experience and industry knowledge to produce great new products like the LaserMax Brushed Simulated Metallics.”

Tom Johns, Rowmark Australia Marketing Manager said “If you are dealing with designers and interior decorators for branding and signage concepts these new colours are set to star! Available in a choice of  4 colours both over white and over black, this simulated metalized look is lightweight, finger print resistant and safe for outdoor applications!

For more information contact 1300  023 370 or follow this link Click here to request samples of these new LaserMax new external Metallic options.

Designed for entry level laser marking tasks, the U-series feature maintenance free fiber lasers and are the perfect companion for marking components and products without the need for additional sprays or pastes.

From data matrix codes to serial numbers and fine fonts, the U series is the ideal companion for your business, capable of marking even the hard to reach areas of components. This is possible thanks to the simple and intuitive U-mark software.

The U300 - Class 2 features a marking area of up to 190 x 190mm and is developed to produce small markings on plastics and metals in the quickest time.

Product highlights:
- Process dynamic data quickly
- Save time with border marking
- Suitable for a range of plastics and metals
- Marking of dynamic content
- Compatible with Windows PCs
- Laser safety class 2

U50 - Class 4 laser marking

Product highlights:
Alongside the same great benefits as the U300, the U50 offers:
- Workspace of either 120 x 120mm or 190 x 190mm
- Easily mark large or bulky components
- Capable of marking same applications as the U300

Contact Trotec to find out more and to book your demonstration. U300 product demonstrations are available in our Sydney and Brisbane showrooms.

Epilog Laser releases updated system, FiberMark S2, the affordable solution for etching and marking all types of bare metals and plastics in one machine. 

Industrial engraving shops looking to work with both bare metals and plastics now have a one-machine solution with Epilog’s FiberMark S2. The small-format fiber laser is Epilog’s original fiber laser system and is the first flying-optic fiber laser system ever developed.

- 30 watt fiber laser
- 610 x 305 x 140mm work area
- Easy-access drop-down door
- Ability to create etched, annealed and polished marks
- 75 – 1200 dpi

With the ability to print directly to the laser from any graphics software, the FiberMark S2 makes etching an entire table full of parts or labels at one time super simple. 





Ideal applications include marking engineered plastics, etching barcodes, serial numbers and tool serialisation, traceability, electrical and industrial labelling.

The FiberMark S2 system is priced to suit entry-level businesses, with full on-site training included with all installations, as well as on-going on-site and phone support Australia-wide from Alfex Laser. 

• Mark and Etch a Wide Variety of Materials - Etch almost any metal and mark many engineered plastics.

• High-Speed Parts Marking - Flying-optic beam delivery system provides fast, accurate metal marking.

• Open Architecture Software Interface - Send projects to the laser through a simple print driver, allowing you to use the software you choose.

• Non-Contact Marking: No Bits Needed - No need to brace parts or replace expensive engraving bits or tools.

• High Volume, Multi-Piece Marking - Easy-access, drop-down door allows for easy access to the engraving table.

• Etch, Polish and Anneal with One System - Create multiple marks that fit your needs with easy-to-use settings.

• Made-in-the-USA Quality - Designed, engineered and manufactured at Epilog Lasers headquarters in Golden, CO, USA.

• Kevlar and Steel Cord Belts - Precision drive belts made of advanced B-style Kevlar and Steel Cord.

• Local support on-site and over the phone for all Australian businesses through Epilog Laser’s Australian partner, Alfex Laser.

The Epilog FiberMark S2 is available in Australia exclusively through Alfex Laser.

Get an immediate return on investment through Alfex Laser’s rent-to-buy financing. Businesses can get their hands on equipment today and generate income to offset the low monthly payments. 

To learn more about the updated Epilog FiberMark S2 and download tech specs, visit www.alfexlaser.com.au or call 1300 20 15 10.

About Alfex Laser: Alfex Laser is home to Australia’s largest range of lasers for cutting, marking and engraving. Partnering with only the best laser brands in the industry world-wide for over 40 years, Alfex Laser continues to support Australian businesses with reliable, on-time laser support, on-site, online and over the phone. No matter what you're making, Alfex Laser will find the best laser solution to increase production and profitability for your business. 

Our hugely popular TroLase engraving materials range has expanded to include TroLase Foil, a flexible, two-layer material featuring a micro-surfaced coating on an acrylic core. It comes with an adhesive backing and is also UV stable.

Available in a range of colours and finishes, TroLase Foil offers easy processing, minimal post-processing and is perfectly suited for indoor and outdoor labelling and signage applications.

Processing TroLase Foil

Thanks to its 0.2mm thickness, our new TroLase Foil range is incredibly versatile as it is ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications. TroLase Foil offers excellent and detailed laser cutting and engraving results, with even large-scale engravings producing less waves than usual. Metallic colours, in particular, produce exceptional results when processed with a fiber laser source. A solid black engraving result is achieved without damaging the material surface.

Functional labels

TroLase Foil is an ideal material for "kiss-cutting", a process where the material is cut with a lower power so that the adhesive backing layer is untouched during processing.

This technique makes processing large quantities of labels effortless, as the finished label can be easily removed from the backing sheet.

Wall decoration

TroLase Foil can also be used to add a metallic or gloss finish to products and applications. The tutorial below shows you how to create a wall decoration using various Trotec laser engraving materials, including TroGlass, Solid Wood, TroLase Foil and signage mounting devices.

DGSHAPE Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Roland DG Corporation and a leading provider of digital fabrication tools, including 3D milling machines, 3D printers, and engraving machines, today announced the release of the LD-300 Laser Decorator.

According to Hiroshi Oe, Global Product Manager for 3D Products at DGSHAPE, "The LD-300 is the next generation of DGSHAPE’s laser decorator technology. It is larger and more robust than the recently released LD-80 laser decorator, increasing the capability of foil decoration onto larger items."

The LD-300 Laser Decorator goes beyond foil decoration on soft plastics to include larger three-dimensional items and direct imprinting on natural leather. The unique design of the LD-300 allows unique personalisation of small or large objects without sacrificing quality. The working area of the LD-300 is approximately 305mm x 230mm and can accommodate objects up to 50mm thick. The bed can be removed to accommodate even larger items up to 200mm thick, such as handbags and product packaging. The LD-300 can produce stunning graphics and crisp text using the bundled METAZAStudio software.

Hiroshi Oe continues, "The LD-300 is a Class 1 laser product. The shielded front cover and completely enclosed frame are perfect for retail environments where safety is a primary concern. Unlike laser engraving technologies that tend to burn the surface of leather during processing, the LD-300 requires no ventilation and leaves no debris during the decorating process. Set up is simple and intuitive, with easy-to-use software for complete control of the decoration workflow." 

The LD-300 Laser Decorator gives customers the opportunity to transform ordinary items into extraordinary personalised products with ease. The LD-300 is now available in Australia. To find out more, click here.

Roland DG Australia, a leading manufacturer of wide format inkjet printers and 3D devices worldwide, today announced the launch of the LV series laser engravers, including the 29” LV-290 and 18” LV-180, now available in Australia and New Zealand.

The LV series uses a non-contact CO2 laser to engrave complex shapes and text with crisp edges at high speed out of plastics, wood, leather, paper, cork and much more. Unlike conventional digital engravers, cut surfaces have a smooth, clean finish without burrs, thus eliminating the need for any final touch-up work. With no engraving cutters to break or wear out, the laser always maintains a beautiful finish with no degradation in quality. Operation of the LV series is very simple, so that even beginners can perform high-precision laser engraving immediately. With two models available that feature different laser power and work areas, users can select the model that best suits the thickness and size of the materials they wish to work with. 

“By combining the LV series’ capabilities with our LEF/LEF2 series UV benchtop flatbed printers featuring exceptional print capabilities, it is possible to create premium value items that cannot be accomplished by using each product on its own. The unique fusion of these products with different capabilities opens up profitable new business opportunities,” said Kohei Tanabe, President of Roland DG's Digital Printing Business Division. “By introducing this solution to our customers around the world, we hope they will be able to create new value and excitement by unleashing their creativity and transforming their imaginations into reality.” 

To find out more, go to: www.rolanddg.com.au/lv

NASA recently awarded a $73.7 million contract to Mountain View, California-based Made In Space to demonstrate the ability to produce and assemble spacecraft components in low-Earth orbit. These capabilities could be vital in reaching, exploring, and possibly settling on Mars.

The contract initiates the second phase of a partnership established through NASA's Tipping Point solicitation. The partnership combines NASA resources and the private sector, with industry partners covering at least 25% of the program costs.

Archinaut One is the proposed space vehicle on which the printing and assembly would take place. It is expected to launch on a rocket in 2022.

Once the vehicle is positioned in low-Earth orbit, the spacecraft will 3D-print two beams that extend 32 feet from each side of the craft. As production moves forward, each beam will unfurl solar arrays capable of generating up to five times more power than typical solar panels on spacecraft of similar size.

The potential of these technologies is thought to include:

- The ability to enable remote, in-space construction of communications antennae and large telescopes
- Enabling small satellites to deploy power systems and reflectors currently reserved for larger satellites
- Avoiding the risks of spacewalks by performing tasks currently completed by astronauts

Made In Space began working on Archinaut in 2016. A year later it successfully 3D-printed structural beams in a NASA facility that mimics the conditions of space. Then, at the agency's Ames Research Center in Silicon Valley, they were able to validate that the printing equipment and hardware were capable of withstanding the environmental challenges of space.

The Archinaut group includes Northrup Grumman, Made In Space, Ames, and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. The program is based out of the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

HP has unveiled a series of innovations and partnerships helping its customers accelerate their digital manufacturing journey.  HP is expanding its industry-leading 3D printing portfolio with the new Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D printing solution, an industrial 3D printing system bringing new levels of manufacturing predictability, efficiency, repeatability, and quality to customers scaling to full production.  To further enable customers digitally transforming their manufacturing, HP is also expanding its strategic alliances with industrial leaders BASF, Materialise, and Siemens, and launching the HP Digital Manufacturing Network, a new global community of proven, large-scale 3D printed parts providers.

“The Fourth Industrial Revolution is one of the most transformative forces in our lifetime. New technology innovations will be required, new partnership models will emerge, and new modes of doing business will unfold,” said Christoph Schell, President of 3D Printing and Digital Manufacturing at HP Inc.  “HP is committed to helping customers with diverse manufacturing needs turn change into opportunity by delivering the most innovative solutions portfolio and comprehensive ecosystem of industry-leading partners.  The broadening of our portfolio with the new Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D printing system, coupled with expanded industrial alliances and our new Digital Manufacturing network, are important accelerators of our digital manufacturing journey.”

HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D Printing Solution: Breakthrough Economics, Productivity, and Applications

The new HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D printing solution brings together new systems, data intelligence, software, services, and materials innovations enabling customers to scale their 3D production and target business growth. Leveraging these innovations, the new solution expands manufacturing predictability with high-quality and optimal-yield of parts at industrial levels of efficiency, accuracy, and repeatability; delivers best-in-class economics and productivity for production environments; and provides the increased flexibility, improved uptime, streamlined workflows, and simplified fleet management required for factory production settings.  New data intelligence, software, and services capabilities, including the HP 3D Process Control and HP 3D Centre software offerings and the HP 3D Parts Assessment service, enable customers to achieve new heights of operational efficiency and repeatability, and identify and optimise production of new 3D applications.

HP also introduced a new certified thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), ULTRASINT developed by BASF, to expand the breadth of final-parts applications for customers on the new Jet Fusion 5200 Series systems. The new TPU is ideal for flexible and elastic parts and complements HP High Reusability[i] PA-12, PA-12 Glass Beads, and PA-11 materials, with more coming in the future.

Numerous companies across the automotive, industrial, consumer goods, and manufacturing sectors are exploring new applications for the new Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D printing solution, including Avid Product Development, BASF, Jaguar Land Rover, Kupol, Materialise, Sculpteo, Prodartis, and Vestas.

“Innovation and advanced technology are at the core of Jaguar Land Rover’s commitment to deliver outstanding customer experiences.  The transition to an autonomous, connected electric and shared future and the journey to Industry 4.0 are central to our future strategy,” said Ben Wilson, Additive Manufacturing Manager, Jaguar Land Rover. “Our work with HP to advance our knowledge and in-house capability in 3D printing has been an important step towards production of quality parts to support current and aftermarket customers. The continuation of this collaboration through the early use of the new HP Jet Fusion 5200 3D printing platform will help us to better understand opportunities to unlock new application areas whilst supporting investigations to advance the productivity, efficiency and reliability of the technology.”

“As the largest provider of wind turbines in the world, Vestas is looking to innovators like HP to help us speed new product development for a more sustainable future,” said Jeremy D. Haight, Senior Principal Engineer of Emerging Technologies, Vestas VBIC.  “The combination of new 3D printing materials and technology breakthroughs is a significant step toward unlocking new design possibilities, streamlining our manufacturing, and improving environmental sustainability.”

The new Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D printing solution is available today.  Full solution information can be found at www.hp.com/go/3DPrinter5200.

HP Deepens Industrial Alliances to Drive the Future of Digital Manufacturing 

Today HP also unveiled expanded alliances with a number of industrial leaders to help customers on their journey to digital manufacturing.

Siemens, an innovation leader in automation and digitalisation, and HP are expanding their alliance to deliver an end-to-end additive manufacturing solution integrating HP’s 3D printing and data intelligence platform, including the new HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D solution, with Siemens’ Digital Enterprise software portfolio.  HP and Siemens are bringing together the power of both companies to expand the market and help customers create unique product designs, bring high-quality 3D parts to market faster, and set up digital factory environments that unleash the full potential of additive manufacturing.

“We are excited to expand our collaboration with HP. Innovative partnerships and cutting-edge technologies such as additive manufacturing are essential for the digital transformation of companies across industries. Siemens and HP are thinking ahead to the future and are bringing together the best from both companies in a complete, industry-specific solution that will accelerate the adoption of industrial additive manufacturing and help our customers to increase flexibility, efficiency, and speed of digital manufacturing,” said Klaus Helmrich, CEO of Siemens Digital Industries and member of the Managing Board of Siemens AG.

BASF, the world’s leading chemical company, and HP are expanding their alliance to deliver innovative BASF materials certified for HP’s new 3D printing solutions.  The two companies will also partner to grow the market and help customers design and develop new applications with this unique combination of materials science and 3D printing capabilities. Already, BASF and HP are already working with Vestas, the world’s largest provider of wind turbines, and Sculpteo, a provider of 3D design and production services, on new applications produced with BASF’s ULTRASINT™ TPU on HP Jet Fusion 3D printing systems.

“Collaborative innovation among key players in the industry will help customers unlock the full potential of 3D printing,” said Dr. Markus Kamieth, Member of the Board of Executive Directors at BASF. “The introduction of the new TPU is a significant milestone in the cooperation between BASF and HP, aligned with our common objective to accelerate the industrialisation of additive manufacturing.“

Materialise, a 3D printing services and software leader, and HP are extending their partnership to integrate the new HP Jet Fusion 5200 and HP Jet Fusion 500/300 3D printing solutions with Materialise’s Build Processor and Materialise Magics 3D Print Suite. As an early customer of the new Jet Fusion 5200 3D printing solution, Materialise is also identifying and developing new innovative applications for customers using the new BASF TPU and other available HP 3D printing materials.  Materialise is also an initial partner of the new HP Digital Manufacturing Network, leveraging HP 3D printing technologies to deliver parts at scale for the European market.

“The market is clearly embracing 3D printing for production and, as a long-standing HP partner, we are proud to expand our collaboration to new areas,” said Fried Vancraen, Founder and CEO of Materialise.   “Our customers are excited by our tighter integration with HP, our joint work on new applications and materials, and our commitment to scale high-quality part production.  Together we are helping our customers win in an increasingly competitive marketplace.”

HP Launches Digital Manufacturing Network: Proven Part Production at Scale

Many companies look to digital manufacturing service providers to help speed development of new products, shorten time to market, create leaner supply chains, and reduce their carbon footprint.  To meet those needs, today HP introduced the new HP Digital Manufacturing Network, a global community of HP production partners to help design, produce, and deliver both plastic and metal parts at scale leveraging HP 3D printing solutions.  Members of the HP Digital Manufacturing Network possess high levels of advanced additive manufacturing expertise, robust quality management and end-to-end manufacturing processes, and a proven capability for volume job production.

The HP Digital Manufacturing Network initially includes partners in the United States, Asia, and Europe.  Digital Manufacturing Network production partners who have met HP’s stringent program qualifications include Forecast 3D, GKN Powder Metallurgy, GoProto, Jabil, Materialise, Parmatech, and ZiggZagg NV.  HP will further expand the network into other target markets with additional qualified partners in the coming months.

Colex, the industry leader in wide-format finishing solutions, features the Sharpcut Conveyor Flatbed Cutter System. The Sharpcut Conveyor is Colex’s most productive solution for automated finishing of wide format media. The new Sharpcut Conveyor can be used for a variety of applications.   The conveyor system is designed to speed up the process of cutting soft to rigid boards, vinyl, fabric, and textiles by utilizing the automatic board feeder or the roll feeder allowing for faster production runs. The Sharpcut Conveyor is designed to operate with minimal operator intervention when equipped with the automatic board feeder or the roll feeder.  This provides users with the best affordable digital cutting automation system.

Most shops have a router today, but traditional routers cannot efficiently perform the necessary specialized functions inherent in the versatile Sharpcut Conveyor tool library available. The Sharpcut Conveyor is special in that it allows finishing technicians to perform intricate cuts while operating fully automated.  The Sharpcut Conveyor offers a Triple Interchangeable Tool Head station that selects the proper tool for the job and an energy efficient 6-Zone Vacuum System with a Vision Registration System. The Sharpcut Conveyor package includes a Fixed Knife, Oscillating Knife and a Router. The new and improved oscillating knife cuts at 14,000 strokes per minute cutting 50% faster along with a variety of new tools offered to customize the Sharpcut Conveyor to suit specific needs and workflow including the Universal Drawing Tool,  V-cut Knife for 90 degree folds, Coroplast Knife, Creasing Wheel, Universal Single Edge Knife for Sintra up to 6mm, and the new motorized rotary knife for fabrics.

The Optiscout Vision Registration System features a high resolution color camera, the ability to import over 30 file formats, plug-in export data from CorelDRAW, Illustrator & AutoCAD desktop to the Optiscout desktop, user friendly material library and the ability to read any diameter registration mark, crop mark or square resulting in highly efficient production.

Summa is proud to announce that its brand new L3214 laser cutting machine will be introduced at FESPA 2019. This is the second Summa style laser unit and equipped with a 1.4 m long conveyor bed on a total width of more than 3.2 m, to be exact 3.35 m.

Besides the size, one of its most unique features is the on-the-fly cutting process, which allows for continuous feeding of material to the machine. This will make the user much more productive. While the machine continues cutting, the newly cut material is readily available for pick-up from the conveyor belt. Fast, accurate, and on-the-fly cutting – the L3214 is bound to change the go-to-market strategy for applications in soft signage, home decoration, sportswear and fashion. The L3214 will be on display at FESPA 2019 in Hall A5, Booth F20.

Meet your customers’ deadlines and improve your margin

Summa has developed a unique on-the-fly cutting concept to ensure a perfectly cut product that’s ready to roll off the table. The concept has many benefits to offer, which contribute to higher productivity, enabling L3214-users to serve their customers faster with high accuracy. To illustrate this, when processing typical jobs, the machine even cuts 400 m2 an hour.

At the core of the enhanced productivity lies a top-notch camera recognition system. Instead of getting your files ready, or waiting for the material to be scanned, this Summa L3214 Vision system continuously scans the material and automatically creates the cut vector needed for the job. The system secures continuous cutting, even when the conveyor is moving, saving you a considerable amount of valuable time.

At this high speed, Summa is still able to maintain the high standards for accuracy. A motorized de-reeler makes sure there is no fabric distortion while cutting. The system secures a constant and stable fabric feed onto the vacuumed cutting bed. By creating a loop in the material, the de-reeler relaxes the material, reduces distortion and secures an accurate cut. No more idle periods, yet boosted productivity instead with a perfectly cut product that’s immediately ready for shipment or further processing.

Like all L Series, also the L3214 enjoys the following benefits:

- Cutting quality that exceeds your expectations, thanks to the perfectly sealed edges. 

- Processing textiles with high precision and without fraying by default, through contactless cutting with a laser. 

- Any deformations are automatically recognised by the intelligent camera system and immediately compensated in the cutting vector. 

- Material optimisation reduces waste with the Vision technology because the laser system does not need markers, the cutting designs can be placed much closer to each other, ensuring maximum use of the material. 

- Environment & Safety is a priority. Fumes are removed by the internal extraction system and cutting by laser produces no dust fibres ensuring a clean work environment. The L Series is enclosed to meet the Class 1 standard, ensuring the laser cutting source is covered during operation and machine pauses if the cover is open.

Laser cutting excellence at FESPA 2019

Textile is one of the fastest growing markets nowadays, where on-demand digital printing proved to be the game changer many soft signage, sportswear and fashion brands need. Printed textiles still require finishing and nothing cuts as accurately as laser cutting. The contactless cutting means no fabric distortion, low to none dust generation, no tool wear and no fraying of synthetic textiles thanks to the edge sealing feature. It can be applied to any type of material and secures a quick and precise cutting of even the most intricate designs.

Wim Maes, Executive Director & CCO at Summa nv comments: “Our first model is a crowd-pleaser, especially in sportswear, but large format textiles and on-demand business models, raised the bar and a fast time-to-market is needed. The market asked for a bigger L Series model and we gladly comply. Textile will again be a major focus market at FESPA 2019 with many visitors looking for the perfect match of quality and price. Seekers of excellence in this field will find it on our stand F20 in Hall A5. We invite everyone to experience the benefits of laser cutting first-hand by joining one of the demonstrations and viewing the accurate and fast output the L3214 delivers with on-the-fly cutting technology.”

You may have noticed a change as Epilog Laser has revamped their look in February.

Over the years, Epilog has excelled in creating and delivering many high-quality laser machines. Their new branding and logo represents them not only as a manufacture, but as an innovator of these advanced products. The launch of the new branding coincides with the launch of their new laser machine – the Fusion Pro.

Epilog’s newest laser machine delivers our fastest speeds, largest work area, and highest engraving quality yet, along with a brand-new state-of-the-art camera system.

The new Fusion Pro line features the industry’s highest engraving speeds and incredibly precise camera positioning.

Epilog Laser, the leading producer of CO2 and fiber laser engraving, cutting and marking systems, is excited to announce the introduction of the new Fusion Pro 48 and Fusion Pro 32 to the company’s product line. These highly-anticipated systems introduce the industry’s highest-speed engraving and the most precise camera positioning features on a laser system.





Available in two sizes, 32” x 20 (812 x 508 mm) and 48” x 36” (1219 x 914 mm), the Fusion Pro introduces Epilog’s IRIS™ Camera System. Overhead cameras allow the user to see a real-time image of the laser bed, and laser operators can precisely position their artwork on the engraving piece in less time than ever before.
 
An additional camera at the lens assembly can also be used for finding registration marks on preprinted pieces. “The IRIS camera system on the new Fusion Pro is a game-changer for those looking for high-precision and quick setup of projects,” said Mike Dean, vice president of sales and marketing at Epilog Laser.





The Fusion Pro also features the industry’s highest-speed engraving at 165 IPS with 5g acceleration. “A machine of this caliber – that combines incredible engraving speeds and the most precise camera recognition capabilities – will allow engravers to produce more product faster, and with more accuracy than ever before,” explained Dean.





New features of the Fusion Pro 48 include:
- Highest Engraving Speeds
The Fusion Pro’s 165 IPS engraving speed and 5G acceleration combine to provide the fastest engraving in the industry.

- IRIS™ Camera Positioning
Overhead cameras provide an accurate picture of the working area for incredibly precise artwork placement, and a camera at the lens allows the system to locate preprinted registration marks.

- Touch Screen at the Laser
Select between jobs, change settings, and more right at the laser from the easy-to-use touch screen.

- SAFEGUARD™ Features
Keep the mechanics of your laser machine cleaner than ever before with side bellow enclosures, a fully covered x-axis assembly, and covered lens assembly.





Continuing Epilog’s reputation for industrially-built lasers, the Fusion Pro 32 and Fusion Pro 48 feature the highest-quality components for durability and low life-time ownership costs, and is proudly designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA.

For more information, visit the Fusion Pro product page.

Massivit 3D Printing Technologies, the leading provider of large format 3D printing solutions, has expanded its portfolio of solutions with the new Massivit 1800 Pro that offers brand-new features including ground-breaking, patented Variable Resolution, new advancements optimising durability and resolution, and remote-operation options to significantly enhance operation efficiency & convenience.

Designed to maximise production cost effectiveness, quality and flexibility, the Massivit 1800 Pro will be presented for the first time in the United States of America at an Open House event that takes place in Las Vegas on April 24th and 25th at Pictographics, a Massivit 3D customer.

The Massivit 1800 Pro brings to the market a patented Variable Resolution capability that can be predefined via the printer’s Massivit SMART Pro software to allow a change of print mode (resolution level and layer thickness) on-the-fly during the printing of a model, according to the varying requirements of different model sections. In addition, a new Mega Quality resolution mode allows for faster, high-quality printing of large objects, optimising gel consumption and printing time. These two new features enable an even more cost-effective production process.

An all-new, remote-operation capability has been developed allowing users to operate the printer and monitor printing progress remotely via a tablet, as well as directly contact Massivit 3D’s responsive customer support and service team if needed.

Uptime is maximised by new, simple, automated maintenance procedures that are triggered according to collected data, as well as customisable priorities for preventative maintenance.

Designed to serve the visual communication, entertainment, concept prototyping, and interior design arenas, the Massivit 1800 Pro 3D Printer produces super-sized, captivating signage, displays, and props at high speed, high resolution, and with perfect repeatability.

This new addition joins the Massivit 1800 Flagship 3D Printer and the Massivit 1500 Exploration 3D Printer in a portfolio developed to empower print service providers as they expand their business into new markets with high quality 3D printing capabilities.

“The Massivit 1800 Pro is the next generation of large format 3D printers with enhanced efficiency, flexibility and control,” stated Amir Veresh, VP of Marketing and Business Development. “Its all-new Mega Quality mode, Variable Resolution capability, and remote monitoring offer cost-effective and reliable production and repeatability.”

Aleph Objects, the well-known 3D printer manufacturer, launches the LulzBot TAZ Pro, its first ever industrial open source 3D printer. 

Aleph Objects has added to its award-winning line of 3D printers by launching what it’s calling its first-ever industrial open source 3D printer, the LulzBot TAZ Pro.

Grant Flaharty, Aleph Objects’ CEO and President, said: “The TAZ Pro is the first true multiple-material 3D printer with dual linear actuated hot ends at a prosumer price point.”

The Colorado-based 3D printer manufacturer explains that this new industrial machine builds on the previous open-source TAZ printer series.

However, this version boasts a dual-material extruder system, and was designed specifically for creating functional prototypes, print-on-demand parts, and manufacturing aids. It’s also larger than previous TAZ printers with an increased build volume of 280 x 280 x 285 mm.

LulzBot TAZ Pro Boasts Dual-Material Capabilities

Independent vertical lifting E3D hot ends with 360-degree part cooling give the printer dual-material capabilities. The result is clean transitions so users can print with unique material types, such as high-strength composite materials and materials with soluble supports, not just different colours.

A press release from the company adds: “The new LulzBot TAZ Pro delivers true multi-material printing, soluble supports, superior 3D print quality, and easy, professional results.”

To ensure printing high-heat composites is possible, Aleph Objects manufactured the printer with hardened-steel components. The company also added a sensor to alert the printer user to when more filament is needed.

Further features of the printer include a 5″ full-colour touch screen display, automated X/Y/Z offset calibration, self-levelling features, nozzle wiping, and belt-driven z-axis to improve accuracy and quality of prints.

Interested in buying a LulzBot TAZ Pro? You can now pre-order the printer and shipments will start around the end of April. The price is $4,950.

This isn’t all to come from Aleph Objects this year as the company also intends to launch an upgrade on the TAZ 6 system in a few months which promises faster and more accurate prints.

Rowmark’s FiberGrave™. is light weight, UV-stable, single ply modified acrylic sheeting with a Matte finish, specially engineered to make contrasting marks with Fiber and YAG lasers. 

How? Rowmark Magic! 

FiberGrave™ is a cost-effective large format solution for Fiber/YAG laser marking applications.  Producing permanent, highly detailed marks, including variable tone images that are barcode and data matrix readable. FiberGrave™ is UV-stable for exterior industrial applications.

FiberGrave™ is available in Bright White that lasers dark grey and Jet Black that’s lasers white in 613mm x 1238mm sheets in either 0.5mm (.020”) or 1mm (.040”) thickness. 
Shears, saws, flexible heat bendable and can be vector cut with standard CO2 lasers.

For further details contact Rowmark Australia on 1300 023 370 or  Click here  to request a sample piece.

Trotec Laser, Inc. is pleased to announce that it has further expanded its line of laserable acrylics to include TroGlass Glitter – a high-quality cast acrylic material with glitter distributed evenly throughout each sheet.

Available in a variety of colours and thicknesses, TroGlass Glitter products are designed to be color stable and will not bleach or fade when laser processed. The new product provides exciting opportunities for creative minds and designers to explore many different and interesting new visual effects, and can be used for a variety of applications including jewellery, signage, decorative items and point-of-purchase displays, to name a few.

Like all TroGlass products, TroGlass Glitter comes standard with a plastic laserable mask. This unique feature protects the acrylic from scratching, which reduces scrap and rework, and improves processing results. TroGlass products produce a smooth, polished edge in one process step, with little or no post-processing. Depending on the laser settings, laser engraving the material surface results in a prominent or subtle engraved image.
Warren Knipple, President of Trotec Laser, Inc., says that the new products were created with the company’s driving mission in mind: To make customers more profitable.

“Our growing materials product line allows us to provide our customers with new opportunities to broaden product offerings, meet a wider range of application needs, and get the most out of a laser investment,” Knipple says. “When we can empower our customers to grow business and increase profits, everyone wins.”