Comparison of top polymer powder bed 3D printers

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May 21, 2024

In this comparison review, we’ll explore some of the top polymer powder bed 3D printers available today, providing detailed insights to help you make an informed decision.

Polymer powder bed 3D printing is rapidly transforming manufacturing processes across industries. Technologies like Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) are at the forefront of this revolution, offering unparalleled precision, speed, and material versatility. 

HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series

Overview

The HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series is renowned for its efficiency and high quality output. Utilizing MJF technology, this printer is ideal for producing functional parts with intricate details and smooth finishes.

 Key Features

 Build Volume: 380 x 284 x 380 mm

 Layer Thickness: 80 microns

 Print Speed: Up to 5058 cm³/hr

 Material Options: PA 12, PA 11, TPU, PP

 Pros

 Speed: One of the fastest printers in the market.

 Detail: Produces fine details and smooth surface finishes.

 Versatility: Compatible with a wide range of materials.

 Cons

 Cost: High initial investment.

 Learning Curve: Requires training to fully utilize its capabilities.

 Ideal For

 High Volume production.

 Functional prototyping.

 End Use parts.

EOS FORMIGA P 110 Velocis

Overview

The EOS FORMIGA P 110 Velocis is a well regarded SLS printer, known for its precision and reliability. It is suitable for small to medium sized production runs and intricate designs.

 Key Features

 Build Volume: 200 x 250 x 330 mm

 Layer Thickness: 60100 microns

 Print Speed: Up to 1.2 liters/hr

 Material Options: PA 12, PA 11, Alumide, TPU

 Pros

 Accuracy: High precision suitable for detailed parts.

 Reliability: Robust and consistent performance.

 Material Range: Supports a variety of materials.

 Cons

 Speed: Slower compared to some competitors.

 Size Limitations: Smaller build volume.

 Ideal For

 Detailed prototyping.

 Custom small batch production.

 Medical and aerospace applications.

3D Systems ProX SLS 6100

Overview

The 3D Systems ProX SLS 6100 combines high quality SLS printing with robust material options. It is designed for both prototyping and production applications.

 Key Features

 Build Volume: 381 x 330 x 460 mm

 Layer Thickness: 80150 microns

 Print Speed: Variable, dependent on part geometry

 Material Options: DuraForm PA, GF, TPU, FR

 Pros

 Material Diversity: Supports a wide range of engineering grade materials.

 Quality: High Quality prints with good mechanical properties.

 Ease of Use: User Friendly interface and setup.

 Cons

 Speed: Moderate printing speed.

 Cost: Expensive materials.

 Ideal For

 Engineering applications.

 Aerospace and automotive parts.

 Functional and end use components.

Farsoon eForm

Overview

The Farsoon eForm is an affordable yet capable SLS 3D printer. It is designed for businesses looking to enter the powder bed fusion market without a significant upfront investment.

 Key Features

 Build Volume: 250 x 250 x 320 mm

 Layer Thickness: 60120 microns

 Print Speed: Up to 2 liters/hr

 Material Options: PA 12, PA 11, TPU

 Pros

 Cost Effective: Lower cost of entry.

 Quality: Good print quality for the price.

 Flexibility: Supports a variety of materials.

 Cons

 Speed: Not the fastest printer.

 Features: Lacks some advanced features found in more expensive models.

 Ideal For

 Small businesses.

 Educational institutions.

 Entry Level industrial applications.

Sinterit Lisa Pro

Overview

The Sinterit Lisa Pro is a compact SLS printer that offers professional grade quality at an accessible price point. It’s suitable for detailed prototypes and functional parts.

 Key Features

 Build Volume: 150 x 200 x 260 mm

 Layer Thickness: 75175 microns

 Print Speed: Moderate, dependent on part geometry

 Material Options: PA 12, Flexa Grey, TPE, TPU

 Pros

 Compact Size: Fits easily in smaller workspaces.

 UserFriendly: Intuitive interface and easy setup.

 Quality: Produces high quality prints with good detail.

 Cons

 Build Size: Limited build volume.

 Speed: Moderate printing speed.

 Ideal For

 Small Scale production.

 Prototyping and design studios.

 Educational and research institutions.

Comparative analysis

 Speed

 Fastest: HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series.

 Moderate: EOS FORMIGA P 110 Velocis, 3D Systems ProX SLS 6100.

 Slower: Farsoon eForm, Sinterit Lisa Pro.

 Build Volume

 Largest: 3D Systems ProX SLS 6100.

 Medium: HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series, Farsoon eForm.

 Smallest: Sinterit Lisa Pro, EOS FORMIGA P 110 Velocis.

 Material Diversity

 Most Versatile: 3D Systems ProX SLS 6100, HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series.

 Good Range: EOS FORMIGA P 110 Velocis, Farsoon eForm.

 Limited: Sinterit Lisa Pro.

 Cost

 Highest: HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series, 3D Systems ProX SLS 6100.

 Moderate: EOS FORMIGA P 110 Velocis.

 Lowest: Farsoon eForm, Sinterit Lisa Pro.

 Ease of Use

 User Friendly: Sinterit Lisa Pro, 3D Systems ProX SLS 6100.

 Intermediate: HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series, Farsoon eForm.

 Advanced: EOS FORMIGA P 110 Velocis.

Conclusion

Choosing the right polymer powder bed 3D printer depends on your specific needs, budget, and production goals. 

For Speed and High Volume: The HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series is the clear winner, offering unmatched speed and efficiency.

For Precision and Reliability: The EOS FORMIGA P 110 Velocis stands out with its high accuracy and robust performance.

For Versatile Materials and Engineering Applications: The 3D Systems ProX SLS 6100 provides excellent material diversity and quality.

For Cost Effectiveness: The Farsoon eForm is a great entry level option without compromising too much on quality.

 For Compact and Accessible Solutions: The Sinterit Lisa Pro offers professional grade prints in a user friendly, compact package.

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