So, on to the announcement. It’s the ZCorp 350, billed as an inexpensive way to acquire “high-end functionality”. What’s “high-end”, you ask?
- automatic material loading
- snap-in binder cartridges
- integrated recycling of unused build material
- self-monitoring operation
- control from both the desktop and printer
- 0.8 in/hour (20 mm/hour) vertical build speed
- 8 x 10 x 8 in (203 x 254 x 203 mm) build size
- 300 x 450 dpi resolution
- office-safe build materials, aggressive dust-control, and zero liquid waste
Those are very useful features, particularly in a professional environment, and definite differences from the ultra-inexpensive 3D printer kits making the rounds. But there is a catch. A USD$29,500 catch.
Now that might seem like a high price for hobbyists, and it is. However, this device is not aimed at the hobbyist market. It’s for professional users in offices that today cannot afford their own 3D printer. Yes, there are 3D printers in this price range, but they don’t have the same features. And in an office environment, those features mean dollars. Without the timesaving features, someone will have to do extra work, and those minutes will add up to big savings in the long term.
Via ZCorp
[UPDATE] Commenter kyphon is correct: ZCorp does not use PolyJet – that’s Objet’s multi-material technology. We suspect someone left the resin out at the Fabbaloo offices and we must have inhaled deeply. Sigh.
This is a great addition to the Zcorp product line. For those looking for simple monochrome solution with the ease of use like the Z650 with the Z650 price, the Z350 is the way to go. I sat in on a pre-product release web demo and it looks very promising.
If you are interested, contact Engineering & Manufacturing Services, Inc. based out of Tampa, FL. They are one of the most influential resellers that helped shaped todays ZCorp printers and have been recognized as the #1 reseller in the U.S. time and again. To find out more about their prototyping services, visit http://www.ems-usa.com
Quick correction: Polyjet is the name of Objet's technology, not Z Corp's. To my knowledge, Z Corp doesn't use a name other than 3D printing.
Why invest $30k+? Just go to http://www.protofacturing.com where an in-house Z650 is available to print your color 3D prototypes. Free quotes and fast service, ship anywhere! So try it before you buy it.