UltiMaker Launches Factor 4, a New Standard in Industrial-Grade 3D Printing
UltiMaker recently announced the release of the UltiMaker Factor 4 industrial-grade 3D printer, designed to take manufacturing to new levels of efficiency and reliability. Factor 4 is an end-to-end 3D printing solution for light industrial applications.
The UltiMaker Factor 4 3D printer is engineered for the development and production of process-critical tools and components. With support for engineering materials, direct drive dual extrusion, onboard print quality reporting, temperature-controlled build volume, and other innovative features, it delivers high levels of predictability and minimal variance. Built on over a decade of dedication to openness and accessibility, the machine will support one of the widest material portfolios on the market for a variety of applications, including end-use parts, functional prototyping, manufacturing tools, and small batch manufacturing of auxiliary components and spares.
Factor 4 offers a temperature-controlled build volume of 330 x 240 x 300 mm and uniform bed heating, ensuring consistent performance across the entire build plate. Designed for manufacturing and industrial sectors, it launches with a new high-temperature print core that allows engineers to print up to 340°C, enabling a broader range of high-performance, temperature-resistant, and durable materials, such as the new UltiMaker PPS CF, a high-temperature composite material. The machine efficiently uses the heated bed and actively controlled chamber airflow to manage the build volume temperature up to 70°C, ensuring optimal material-specific processing conditions and consistent part quality wherever the 3D printer is located.
Key features of UltiMaker Factor 4
Industrial-Grade Performance
Constructed from robust steel, aluminum, and glass, Factor 4 is built for the factory floor. The printer features a triple-insulated build volume, closed loop and direct drive dual extrusion, automatic inductive bed leveling, and a PEI-coated flexible build plate, ensuring consistent production output, even on complex and challenging designs. These features combined with the all-new H-bridge gantry and a rigid all-metal frame allow for high-speed movement and accuracy.
Automatic Material Handling and Storage
The integrated, low moisture material handling system allows engineers to reliably manage their print jobs. The material station is climate-controlled, with humidity levels kept below 15%, and holds up to six spools of filaments in their prime condition. It features an automatic material change capability, which seamlessly switches between spools, eliminating downtime and ensuring uninterrupted printing, for those printing a single part that may require several days or multiple spools.
Expanded Material Diversity
The printer expands the range of high-performance, industrial-grade materials, enabling production of structural integrity verified parts, from flexible materials to high-temperature composites, such as the UltiMaker PPS CF. UltiMaker PPS CF is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic material, reinforced with carbon fiber. The material has a temperature resistance greater than 230°C and is flame retardant. It provides a high-performing alternative to steel or aluminum for less-demanding parts, enabling users to unlock new industrial applications.
Seamless Workflow Integration
The UltiMaker Cura 5.7.1 release has new print profiles for Factor 4, customized and fine-tuned for optimal print quality and performance. With automatic recognition of UltiMaker materials and print cores in Cura, Factor 4 offers a smooth 3D printing experience. The printer is also compatible with major CAD software.
Powerful Onboard Print Process Reporting
The machine has a 7” capacitive touch screen and a suite of sensors in the print head, build volume, and automated material loading system that monitors real-time data on printer and material performance and delivers in-depth reporting after every print job, ensuring easy part validation and quality control.
Modular System for Simplified Maintenance
The printer offers a modular design that allows for easy repairs and maintenance, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
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