What is a 3D Printer?
3D Printers are capable of creating appearance prototypes from computer-aided design "CAD" and other digital data. The prototypes can be used for design review, mock-ups for form and fit testing and patterns for casting applications. The use of prototypes allows engineers to speed the design process and get to market faster with a better product.

How does the 3D Printing technology work?
The Z310, Z450 and Z510 3D Printers use a powder-binder technology invented at and patented by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to create parts directly from digital data. First, the 3D Printer spreads a thin layer of powder. Second, an ink-jet print head prints a binder in the cross-section of the part being created. Next, the build piston drops down, making room for the next layer, and the process is repeated. Once the part is finished, it is surrounded and supported by loose powder, which is then shaken loose from the finished part.

What is industry using the 3D Printers for?
Thousands of customers in a range of industries including automotive, footwear, consumer products, consumer electronics, packaging and education use the Z310, Z450 or Z510 3D Printers. Customers include Sony, Fisher-Price, NASA, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Adidas, Ford, and Disney.

3D parts are used as appearance prototypes for design review and a variety of secondary applications including patterns for casting applications, mock-ups for form and fit testing and prototypes to collect market feedback. In addition, the 3D parts can be drilled, tapped, sanded and painted, and electroplated to replicate the look and feel of the final product.

How much training is required to use a 3D Printer?
The Z310, Z450 and Z510 3D Printers are safe and easy to operate. Installation and training typically takes one day and is conducted by an authorized service technician. In addition, the System comes with a complete user manual and software guide.

What are the key advantages of the 3D Printer System?
Speed-The speed of the Z310, Z450 or Z510 3D Printer reduces the time it takes to create a part from one day to a few hours.
Cost-The low cost of materials allows customers to make more parts for less money than competing methods.
Versatility-The ability to infiltrate parts allows customers to expand the range of applications satisfied by 3D parts.
Color-The Z510 and Z450 3D Printers can create full color parts, resulting in multiple color prototypes.