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Methods 3D, a subsidiary of Methods Machine Tools, offers the 3D Systems ProX SLS 500 production 3D printer, featuring fast speeds, high print resolution and a range of engineered composite materials. According to the supplier, the 3D printer delivers thermoplastic parts with high precision, durability and quality within a compact production-grade system. Applications include ready-to-use functional parts and complete assemblies for aerospace, automotive, medical device and mobile device applications.

The ProX SLS 500 offers maximum build envelope capacity of 15" × 13" ×18" (381 × 330 × 460 mm). The printer is equipped with 3D Systems' latest print driver, automated part nesting on the fly, and an optional, automated material handling module that streamlines production and recycling of materials.

Developed in tandem with the DuraForm ProX materials line, the printer is said to be capable of generating injection molding-like part quality. According to Methods 3D, the integration of printer and material yields 80 percent material reusability. DuraForm ProX materials used with the ProX SLS 500 include DuraForm ProX PA, an extra-strong thermoplastic ideal for low-temperature tooling, surgical tooling and saw guides component housings, and manifolds; DuraForm ProX GF, a glass-filled material offering rigidity and stiffness suitable for jigs, fixtures and tooling; and DuraForm ProX HST composite, a temperature-resistant mineral-filled material well-suited for lightweight, rigid, load-bearing parts.