Published on Tue May 05 2020 16:21:28 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Formlabs Form 3BL: A Deep Dive into Large-Format SLA 3D Printing

The Formlabs Form 3BL represents a significant leap in large-format stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing. Aimed at professionals who require high-precision, large parts, or the ability to batch-produce smaller items, the 3BL promises to bring the renowned Formlabs quality to a wider range of applications. This article delves into the specifics of the 3BL, exploring its capabilities and considerations for prospective users.

What is the Formlabs Form 3BL?

The Form 3BL is a large-format SLA 3D printer designed and manufactured by Formlabs. It utilizes a Low Force Stereolithography (LFS) print engine, which reduces stress on parts during the printing process, improving surface finish and accuracy. It’s built for professionals, designers, engineers, and manufacturers who need large prototypes, custom parts, or production-quality pieces.

Detailed Specifications

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Here’s a breakdown of the Form 3BL’s key specifications:

• Technology: Low Force Stereolithography (LFS)
• Build Volume: 33.5 cm x 20 cm x 30 cm (13.2 in x 7.9 in x 11.8 in)
• Laser Spot Size: 85 μm
• Layer Resolution (Z-Axis): 25 - 300 microns
• Materials: Compatible with a range of Formlabs resins, including:
  • General Purpose Resins (Clear, Grey, White, Black)
  • Engineering Resins (Tough, Durable, High Temp, Rigid)
  • Elastomeric Resins (Elastic, Flexible)
  • Dental Resins (For specific dental applications)
  • Castable Resins (For investment casting)
  • Draft Resin (For high-speed prototyping)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
• Software: Formlabs PreForm (for print preparation)
• Power Requirements: 100-240 V, 50/60 Hz
• Printer Dimensions: 77.6 cm x 52.1 cm x 74.1 cm (30.6 in x 20.5 in x 29.2 in)
• Weight: 53.9 kg (119 lbs)
• Operating Temperature: 18 - 28 °C (64 - 82 °F)

Key Features and Advantages

The Form 3BL offers several compelling advantages:

• Large Build Volume: Its larger build volume allows for printing single, large parts or batch production of smaller components.
• High Precision and Accuracy: LFS technology ensures precise and accurate prints, crucial for functional prototypes and end-use parts.
• Wide Material Compatibility: The broad range of compatible Formlabs resins opens doors to diverse applications, from flexible prototypes to high-temperature components.
• User-Friendly Software: PreForm software simplifies print preparation, automatic support generation, and print job management.
• Automated Resin System: The resin system automatically dispenses material, reducing manual intervention and streamlining the printing process.
• Remote Print Monitoring: Users can monitor print progress remotely via the Formlabs Dashboard.
• Easy Post-Processing: The Form Wash and Form Cure units automate the washing and curing process, improving the quality and consistency of finished parts.

Usage Tips for Optimal Results

To get the most out of your Form 3BL, consider these tips:

• Material Selection: Carefully select the appropriate resin for your application, considering factors like strength, flexibility, temperature resistance, and chemical compatibility.
• Orientation: Optimize part orientation in PreForm to minimize support structures and ensure optimal surface finish.
• Support Generation: Pay close attention to support placement. Use automatic support generation and manually adjust where necessary to ensure proper support without excessive scarring.
• Resin Tank Care: Regularly inspect and clean the resin tank to prevent debris or cured resin from affecting print quality.
• Firmware Updates: Keep the printer’s firmware and PreForm software up-to-date to benefit from the latest features and bug fixes.
• Post-Processing: Follow Formlabs’ recommended post-processing procedures for each resin to achieve optimal mechanical properties and surface finish.
• Environment: Maintain a stable and clean environment around the printer. Avoid direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations.
• Resin Storage: Store resins in a cool, dark place when not in use to prevent degradation.

Detailed Scoring

Here’s a detailed scoring of the Formlabs Form 3BL, based on the specified categories, with each category rated out of 10:

• Print Quality: 9/10 - Excellent detail and smooth surfaces, consistent across the build volume. Slight variations may occur depending on resin.
• Build Volume: 9/10 - Large enough for substantial parts and batch production.
• Printing Speed: 7/10 - Not the fastest technology, but respectable for SLA. Smaller layers speed up time
• Material Compatibility: 9/10 - A wide range of proprietary resins cater to various applications.
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 8/10 - Generally reliable adhesion.
• Reliability: 8/10 - Robust hardware and consistent performance with proper maintenance.
• Ease of Use: 8/10 - Intuitive PreForm software and streamlined workflow.
• Firmware and Software: 9/10 - Regularly updated with new features and improvements.
• Connectivity Options: 8/10 - Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB offer versatile connectivity.
• Build Quality & Durability: 9/10 - Solid construction and quality components.
• Noise Level: 7/10 - Moderate noise level during printing.
• Maintenance Requirements: 7/10 - Requires regular tank cleaning and maintenance of other components.
• Customer Support: 8/10 - Formlabs is known for their customer support, with online resources and responsive assistance.
• Upgradeability: 6/10 - Limited upgradeability, primarily focused on resin compatibility.
• Price to Performance Ratio: 7/10 - High initial investment, but justified for professional use cases requiring large, high-quality parts.

Average Score: 7.93/10

The Verdict

The Formlabs Form 3BL stands out as a robust and capable large-format SLA 3D printer. Its large build volume, high precision, and broad material compatibility make it a valuable asset for professionals in various industries. The user-friendly software and automated resin system streamline the printing process, while the detailed scoring of this printer suggests a high reliability. Despite the high initial cost, the Form 3BL delivers excellent value for applications requiring large, accurate, and production-quality parts.

Written by Alex