Introduction

Imagine the venerable steam engine, a cornerstone in the Industrial Revolution, transforming entire industries with its robust and versatile power. For over two centuries, it has evolved, adapting to the changing needs of time while maintaining its core principles of versatility, innovation, and quality. This spirit of enduring adaptability and versatility is mirrored in the modern marvel of manufacturing technology – the Stratasys F900 3D printer. Renowned as a true FDM “workhorse,” the F900 embodies these enduring qualities, representing a convergence of innovation and reliability in the realm of industrial additive manufacturing.

The F900’s Unmatched Versatility and Reliability

The F900 is more than just an investment; it represents the pinnacle of sophistication in the industrial FDM additive manufacturing system. Its diverse capabilities have made it indispensable for major manufacturers. From printing large-scale parts to using materials suitable for spacecraft components, the F900 excels in versatility. This range, coupled with its proven accuracy and dependability, cements its status as a manufacturing favourite.

Consider Plyform, an Italian aerospace supplier, which turned to the F900 for tooling composite parts, finding it more cost-effective and efficient than traditional methods. The F900’s large build chamber and use of ULTEM™ 1010 resin are particularly suited for the aerospace industry’s needs. “The F900 offers the best precision and repeatability of all additive manufacturing technologies we’ve tried,” says Luca Ceriani, head of manufacturing engineering at Plyform.

Similarly, BAE Systems in the U.K. leverages the F900 for various applications, operating their printers around the clock to support space models, prototypes, tools, and production parts. Greg Flanagan, additive manufacturing operations lead at BAE Systems, emphasizes the machine’s role in expanding their use of FDM technology and its tooling applications.

Innovative Enhancements to the F900

Like the steam engine, which evolved to meet the demands of different eras, the F900 has undergone enhancements to keep pace with modern manufacturing needs. Notable among these is the introduction of new printer tips – the T40A and T40C. These provide higher extrusion rates and thicker bead application, significantly reducing the time-to-part for larger builds. By employing ULTEM™ 9085 resin and FDM® Nylon 12CF, these tips have boosted production rates by up to 40% in some instances.

Another significant advancement is the introduction of Validated Materials. Stratasys Validated Materials, developed by third parties, extend the F900’s material portfolio, fostering the introduction of innovative materials that unlock new applications. For instance, Kimya PC-FR, a fire-resistant polycarbonate, meets rail industry standards and is ideal for low-volume applications like obsolete part replacement.

The F900: A Continually Evolving Industry Staple

The F900 is emblematic of the FDM technology’s resilience and innovation, proven by years of reliable performance. With each update, it provides additional value to manufacturers. Recent enhancements, including the T40 tips and the inclusion of colored ULTEM™ 9085 resins, are just the beginning of its continued evolution, with more groundbreaking advancements anticipated.

Conclusion

The F900 3D printer, paralleling the transformative impact of the steam engine, stands as a symbol of innovation, versatility, and exceptional quality in the additive manufacturing world. As a flagship offering from Objective3D, the F900 represents more than just an advanced piece of machinery; it epitomizes our unwavering commitment to manufacturing excellence.

At Objective3D, our distinction in the market is twofold: not only do we supply state-of-the-art printers like the F900, but we also bring a wealth of hands-on experience with these technologies, gained from their daily use in our 3D printing service bureau for large-scale projects. This practical knowledge transcends mere sales, making us a total solutions provider with a deep, operational understanding of the products we offer. Our expertise in using these technologies for diverse Australian industry applications allows us to provide unparalleled support and tailored solutions, addressing specific client needs from design challenges to production workflow optimizations. Ultimately, Objective3D stands as a beacon of comprehensive expertise and innovation in additive manufacturing, offering more than equipment – we provide a partnership rooted in extensive knowledge and a commitment to advancing manufacturing technology.