3D Systems unveils Figure 4 additive manufacturing platform

3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) announced Monday (March 20) the Figure 4 production platform — described as the “first modular, scalable and fully-integrated additive manufacturing platform.” The Figure 4 promises to produce plastic parts more than 50 times faster than current systems and could be disruptive for traditional manufacturing, the company acknowledged in a press release.

“We believe our breakthrough Figure 4 platform will revolutionize manufacturing by transforming production of both mass customized and complex end use parts with a compelling total cost of operations versus conventional methods,” 3D Systems President and CEO Vyomesh Joshi said in a news release. “While others are realizing the need to transition from prototyping to production, we are delivering real solutions across all key vertical markets and applications that are helping customers solve problems today.”

The platform allows customers to tailor configurations and select materials to address specific applications. Configurations range from single-print engine machines to fully automated, high-volume production systems with 16 or more print engines, automated material delivery and integrated post-processing.

As part of its vertical strategy, 3D Systems will unveil one of its initial solutions for the multibillion-dollar dental industry based on the Figure 4 platform and its NextDent materials. Customers will be able to see the solution at the International Dental Show (IDS) 2017, in Cologne, Germany, March 21-25.

Over time, the company intends to extend the Figure 4 platform application by application to meet specific customer needs across healthcare, aerospace, automotive and durable goods industries.

More information on the Figure 4’s capabilities are available at this link.