Use of professional 3D printers provides fast development solution for specialist parts in robotics applications
 
RS Components (RS), the trading brand of Electrocomponents plc (LSE:ECM), the global distributor for engineers, has introduced two high-reliability 3D printers from Zortrax, which enable engineers, innovators and project developers working in the field of robotics to produce detailed and accurate concepts and prototypes.

Those working in robotics have already adopted 3D printing technology to streamline project development. Tackling the limited availability of specialist components or subsystems, 3D printing delivers the capability for developers to create highly complex and application-tailored parts, or even entire robots, for a variety of end applications.
 
Employing single-extruder LPD (layer plastic deposition) printing technology, the reasonably priced Zortrax M200 and M300 3D printers are reliable, efficient and offer exceptional quality with high dimensional accuracy and repeatable precision. This enables the high-quality printing of detailed elements that duplicate models without any loss of the original appearance, as well as completing extensive print jobs with almost no maintenance.
 
The M200 pack is a fully integrated plug-and-play system that allows users to get up-and-running immediately and includes the 3D printer, starter kit, dedicated intuitive software bundle Z-SUITE, and compatible material. Specifications of the M200 include: workspace dimensions of 200 x 200 x 180mm; 90 to 400-micron resolution, wall thickness capability of 400 microns (minimum) to 800 microns (optimum); and single printable point resolution of 400 microns. Other key specifications include material diameter of 1.75mm and a nozzle diameter of 0.4mm.
 
Physical dimensions of the printer are 345 x 360 x 430mm without the material spool and 345 x 430 x 430mm with the spool. In addition, there are a number of extra options available including the Hotend V2, perforated plate V2, and side covers, which keep a stable model temperature during the printing and cooling process to reduce the risk of warps and cracks.
 
Materials are available in a wide selection of professional grades, qualities and colours to suit different design requirements, and include Z-ABS, Z-ULTRAT, Z-HIPS, and Z-PCABS. The Z-ULTRAT filament comes in pastel shades of yellow, pink, purple, blue and turquoise; Z-ABS in white and pure black; Z-PCABS is a polycarbonate ABS ivory filament; and Z-HIPS comes in black. The range also enables the selection of materials that offer high durability against mechanical stress or high resistance to temperatures or even chemicals.
 
The Zortrax M300 3D printer builds upon the capabilities of the M200 and offers a larger workspace with dimensions of 300 x 300 x 300mm and 140 to 300-micron resolution, optimal wall thickness dimension of 800 microns, and single printable point resolution of 400 microns. The M300 is ideal for designs using the Z-HIPS material, and provides a spool preview to allow users to check the material usage and colour. The M300 pack comprises the printer, side covers, starter kit, key to Z-SUITE software, and two spools of material.
 
Compatible with stl, obj, dxf and 3mf file types, both machines support Mac OS X/Windows 7 and newer versions, and have access to a helpful model library. Further accessories available for both machines include the Zortrax 40 x 40mm fan cooler and extruder cable with adaptor.
 
The Zortrax M200 and M300 3D printers are now available from RS. These new 3D printers strengthen the existing comprehensive selection of products supporting the robotics range stocked by RS.