Published on Thu May 28 2020 01:23:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

The Formlabs Form 3B: Precision 3D Printing for Healthcare Professionals

The Formlabs Form 3B is a desktop stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer tailored specifically for dental and medical applications. It’s designed to deliver high-resolution, biocompatible parts with a smooth surface finish, making it a valuable tool for creating surgical guides, dental models, and other healthcare-related prototypes and end-use products. This article delves into the Form 3B’s specifications, offers usage tips, and thoroughly examines its capabilities.

What Makes the Form 3B Special?

The Form 3B stands apart due to its focus on biocompatibility and precision. Formlabs has curated a range of materials specifically designed for the healthcare industry, allowing professionals to confidently produce parts that meet stringent regulatory requirements. Let’s take a closer look at its key features:

Detailed Specifications:

• Technology: Low Force Stereolithography (LFS)
• Build Volume: 14.5 × 14.5 × 18.5 cm (5.7 × 5.7 × 7.3 in)
• Layer Resolution (Z-axis): 25 - 300 microns
• Laser Spot Size: 85 microns
• Laser Power: 250mW
• Printer Dimensions: 40.5 × 38 × 53 cm (15.9 × 15 × 20.9 in)
• Weight: 17.5 kg (38.5 lbs)
• Supported Materials: Formlabs’ biocompatible resin library (Surgical Guide Resin, Dental LT Clear Resin, Dental Model Resin, etc.) and general-purpose resins.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
• Software: PreForm (Formlabs’ proprietary software)

Unpacking and Initial Setup:

Setting up the Form 3B is straightforward. The printer arrives mostly assembled. Follow these initial steps:

1. Unboxing and Inspection: Carefully unpack the printer and check for any signs of damage during shipping.
2. Leveling: Ensure the printer is placed on a stable, level surface.
3. Cartridge Installation: Install the resin cartridge into the designated slot. The Form 3B automatically detects the resin type.
4. Build Platform Installation: Insert the build platform into the printer.
5. Software Installation: Download and install the PreForm software on your computer.
6. Calibration: Follow the on-screen instructions in PreForm to calibrate the printer. This ensures optimal print quality.

Using the PreForm Software:

PreForm is the essential software for preparing your 3D models for printing. It’s user-friendly and provides powerful tools for:

• Importing Models: Import STL or OBJ files of your 3D designs.
• Orientation and Support Generation: Orient the model for optimal print quality and automatically generate support structures. Consider manual adjustment of supports for complex geometries to minimize support marks.
• Layer Height Adjustment: Select the desired layer height based on the level of detail required for your print. Lower layer heights produce finer details but increase print time.
• Hollowing: Reduce resin consumption and print time by hollowing out large models. Ensure proper drainage holes are added to allow resin to escape during printing.
• Print Preview: Preview the sliced model to identify potential issues and estimate print time and resin consumption.

Printing with the Form 3B: Best Practices

• Resin Selection: Carefully select the appropriate resin for your application. Consider the material properties, biocompatibility requirements, and intended use of the printed part.
• Resin Tank Maintenance: Regularly inspect and clean the resin tank. Remove any debris or cured resin fragments.
• Build Platform Cleaning: Clean the build platform with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) after each print to remove any residual resin.
• Post-Processing: The Form 3B requires post-processing steps, including washing the printed parts in IPA and curing them under UV light.
• Support Removal: Carefully remove support structures using appropriate tools. A sharp blade or flush cutters can help minimize surface damage.
• Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation during printing and post-processing to minimize exposure to resin fumes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Print Failures: Print failures can be caused by various factors, including incorrect orientation, insufficient supports, resin contamination, or printer malfunction. Review the PreForm software’s troubleshooting guide and the Formlabs support documentation.
• Poor Surface Finish: Poor surface finish can be caused by excessive support marks, incorrect layer height settings, or resin contamination. Experiment with different support strategies and layer heights to optimize surface quality.
• Warping: Warping can occur when printing large or complex parts. Consider using a raft to improve bed adhesion and reduce warping.

Form 3B Evaluation (Out of 10):

• Print Quality: 9
• Build Volume: 7
• Printing Speed: 7
• Material Compatibility: 8 (focused biocompatible range)
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 9
• Reliability: 8
• Ease of Use: 8
• Firmware and Software: 9
• Connectivity Options: 8
• Build Quality & Durability: 8
• Noise Level: 7
• Maintenance Requirements: 7
• Customer Support: 9
• Upgradeability: 6
• Price to Performance Ratio: 7

Average Score: 7.86/10

Conclusion:

The Formlabs Form 3B is a powerful and precise 3D printer designed specifically for the healthcare industry. Its focus on biocompatibility, high resolution, and ease of use makes it a valuable tool for creating surgical guides, dental models, and other critical medical applications. While it comes with a higher price point than some other desktop 3D printers, its performance and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for healthcare professionals seeking to improve their workflows and patient outcomes. By following the recommended best practices and troubleshooting guidelines, users can maximize the potential of the Form 3B and achieve consistent, high-quality results.

Written by Alex