Like other companies trying to improve productivity, compete against rivals and maintain an edge with customers, Stratasys is always striving to break new ground. This blog explores the progression of Stratasys FDM 3D Printers from the invention of FDM technology in 1988 to the new Stratasys F123 Series product launches in 2017.
1988: Scott Crump Invents FDM
Looking back to 1988, Scott Crump invented a breakthrough technology called Fused Deposition Modeling. Since being commercialized and trademarked by Stratasys in the early 90s, FDM 3D printing continues to make advancements today.
1994: First Thermoplastic Available for 3D Printing
By introducing the first ABS material to work with FDM printers, Stratasys opened the door to stronger more complex parts. This expanded opportunity for 3D printing in manufacturing industries.
2002: Stratasys Increases Accessibility
Another significant breakthrough Stratasys made was making 3D printing accessible with precision and performance priced for new category users, various product designs and a range of production processes.
In 2002, Stratasys introduced the Dimension 3D printers under $100,000.00. At the time, it was a game changer, as systems were complicated, required extensive post processing and were designed for service bureau’s throughput.
2009: First High-Performance FDM Thermoplastics
Not only are 3D printers developing at astronomical rates, but FDM thermoplastics like the ULTEM 9085 also made significant advances in strength-to-weight ratio, meeting high requirements of aerospace, automotive and military applications.
2017: Launch of the Stratasys F123 3D Printer Series
Stratasys is again changing the game with the launch of the new F123 Series, which is the next-generation rapid prototyping solution with intuitive collaboration software for designers and engineers.
The F123 Series is divided into three models including:
-F170: Running PLA, ABS and ASA on a (10 x 10 x 10 in) envelope with a single material bay
-F270: Running PLA, ABS and ASA on a (12 x 10 x 12 in) envelope with double bays.
-F370: Running PLA, ABS, ASA and PC-ABS on a (14 x 10 x 14 in) envelope with double bays.
The F123 Series is the most reliable, economical and intelligent 3D printer for the entire office, combining powerful FDM technology with design-to-print GrabCAD software for the most versatile prototyping solution available. Stratasys is always innovating, with 43 existing patents and 15 new patents, this product line surpasses competition with its high reliability and accuracy, ease-of-use and unprecedented capability in its price category.
Watch our on-demand webinar below for more details.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for your next 3D printer or are a proud owner or user of a Dimension, then don’t miss the new materials, 50% faster prints, increased accuracy, three times faster build setups and incredible software and scheduling options from the Stratasys F123 Series. Don’t wait, get a quote today!
