MarkForged Mark One 3D Printer: Brilliant 3D Printing with Brilliant Materials


MarkOneMarkForged may be a fresh out-of-the box Kickstarter-funded startup, but from it’s success, comes brilliance. It goes without saying that we hear about a new 3D printer every few weeks. So, why not go for something higher on the 'innovative threshold' in 3D printing? The Mark One is the world's first 3D printer designed to print composite materials, something that can be very intimidating. In particular, we're talking carbon fiber here, a composite material with such light-weight strength it ranks higher than Aluminum on a strength-to-weight ratio. Interestingly enough, carbon fiber is actually used to construct rockets, space shuttles, and even Formula 1 cars.

MarkOne1Mark One can print objects 20 times stiffer and 5 times faster than ABS thermoplastic filament, found in existing plastic printing. The tremendous strength carbon fiber printing provides, comes from its "tens of thousands of full length, continuous carbon fiber strands". But it's not only carbon fiber that makes this 3D printer better suited to build strong, lean goods. Mark One's specifications benefit the user in a variety of ways. For one, Mark One has a long axis ratio, better suited for engineers. Large yet compact, it also appears more as a home device than something as industrial as it is. It measures 22.6-inches wide, 14.2-inches tall, and 12.7-inches deep; with a build size of 12″ x 6.25″ x 6.25″. It's aluminum constructed unibody means it’s truly is a tough, rigid, and precise piece of equipment. Also, impressively, there is no need for bed leveling. Mark One clicks into the same place every single time; within 10 microns.

MarkOne2Want even better news? Although initially inspired "by a desire to prototype racecar wings more quickly", Mark One isn't limited to printing with carbon fiber. It can print fiberglass, PLA (Poly(lactic acid)), and nylon. This technology will be well-served for manufacturing anything from prosthetics, custom bones, tools, and drones. Available for pre-order in February, Mark One will retail for $5,000, with shipping late 2014. Founder, Gregory Mark, says this could be a precursor to a larger industrial giant.

Topics: Technology News Gadgets & Peripherals Inventions & Innovations

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