Making stereolithography parts faster and bigger

Researchers at Northwestern University announced that they developed a futuristic stereolithography based 3D printer and technology called HARP (high-area rapid printing). The 3D printer that uses HARP is 13 ft tall with a 2.5 ft2 print bed. It can print nearly roughly 18 in. in an hour. Thus, it can print a large part or multiple smaller parts simultaneously.

HARP prints vertically to convert liquid plastic into solid objects. It uses projected ultraviolet light to cure the liquid resins. The researchers claim that the resulting parts can be hard, elastic, or ceramic. The continuous printing nature of HARP delivers mechanically robust parts suitable for the automotive, aerospace, and dental industries.

HARP uses a nonstick immiscible fluorinated oil to minimize adhesion at the build region. This enables the fast build speed. It also helps control heat from the printer, which enables a larger build envelope.