Markforged Unveils the FX10 Metal Kit
Markforged Holding Corporation (NYSE: MKFG), a leader in enhancing manufacturing resilience by enabling on-site industrial production, has announced the launch of the FX10 Metal Kit. This innovative kit transforms the FX10 into the first industrial 3D printer capable of printing both metal filaments and composites with continuous fiber reinforcement.
Advantages of the FX10 Metal Kit
“Customers no longer need to choose between a metal printer and a composite printer. Our years of research, development, and field experience have culminated in an all-in-one solution for 3D printing,” said Shai Terem, CEO of Markforged. This advancement is set to deliver immediate returns on investment, improving factory workflows and boosting productivity while reducing potential downtimes.
Improved Production Capabilities
The FX10 was initially introduced as a composite-only printer but quickly received positive feedback from early users. Its modular design allows for upgrades like the Metal Kit, enabling users to gain more value from their machines over time.
New Materials for the FX10
Alongside the FX10 Metal Kit, Markforged has launched a new 316L stainless steel metal filament specifically tailored for this system. Users will also have the ability to print with 17-4PH metal, with additional metal filament support expected in future upgrades.
Modularity and Future-Proofing
Terem highlighted the modular design philosophy of the FX10: “We created the FX10 to enable regular releases of new innovations and upgrades without requiring customers to buy new printers.” This commitment to ongoing software and hardware enhancements ensures that the FX10 Metal Kit will continue to provide value for users for years ahead.
Technical Features of the FX10 Metal Kit
The FX10 Metal Kit comes equipped with a swappable print engine, featuring a metal-specific print head, material feed tubes, and dual pre-extruders. These components are designed for smooth transitions between metal and composite printing in about 15 minutes.
Performance Enhancements
Building on the existing capabilities of the FX10, which utilizes the 5th Generation Continuous Fiber Reinforcement (CFR) print system, the new 2nd Generation Metal FFF engine is designed for faster print speeds compared to previous Markforged metal systems. With a print volume that is double that of earlier models, this printer promises exceptional efficiency.
Integrating the Digital Forge
The Digital Forge, Markforged’s cutting-edge additive manufacturing platform, plays a crucial role in the functionality of the FX10. Designed to integrate seamlessly into existing manufacturing setups, the Digital Forge enables users to collaborate on designs and monitor performance across their production fleets from a single centralized hub.
Showcasing Innovations
Markforged is set to showcase the FX10 Metal Kit at a major industry event, where it will demonstrate its capabilities in printing both continuous fiber reinforced composites and metal. This exhibition will highlight the potential of the FX10 to revolutionize industrial 3D printing.
About Markforged
Markforged (NYSE: MKFG) is committed to enhancing supply chain resilience and flexibility through on-site industrial 3D printing. Their flagship platform, The Digital Forge, empowers manufacturers to create robust and precise components in both metal and advanced composite materials. With a vast network of over 10,000 customers across more than 70 countries, Markforged is leading the charge in bringing on-demand manufacturing capabilities directly to the factory floor. The company is based in Waltham, Massachusetts, where it develops the hardware, software, and advanced materials that ensure the reliability and user-friendliness of The Digital Forge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the FX10 Metal Kit?
The FX10 Metal Kit is an enhancement for the FX10 printer that allows it to print both metal and composite materials.
What materials can be printed with the FX10 Metal Kit?
The FX10 Metal Kit supports printing with 316L stainless steel and 17-4PH metal filaments, in addition to continuous fiber reinforced composites.
How long does it take to switch between materials using the FX10?
Switching between metal and composite printing takes about 15 minutes, enabling quick adjustments to production requirements.
What advantages does the FX10 offer over previous models?
The FX10 boasts a larger print volume and faster print speeds compared to earlier Markforged industrial metal printers, significantly enhancing productivity and efficiency.
What is the Digital Forge?
The Digital Forge is an additive manufacturing platform that integrates with the FX10, allowing for collaboration and performance monitoring across production environments.
