3D Printers

Desktop Metal launches the Studio System 2 3D printer – technical specifications and pricing

Industrial 3D printer OEM Desktop Metal has launched its Studio System 2 metal 3D printer.

Based on the previously released Studio System+, the new System 2 is an office-friendly machine intended for low-volume prototyping and custom end-use production. Powered by the company’s proprietary Bound Metal Deposition (BMD) process, a metal FFF technology, the system eliminates loose powders and lasers in favor of bound metal rod extrusion (metal powder with a polymer binder).

Ric Fulop, CEO, and co-founder of Desktop Metal states, “Desktop Metal continues to drive innovations that enable additive manufacturing to more effectively compete with conventional manufacturing processes. Our next-generation Studio System 2 takes the best features of the original Studio System+ and significantly improves upon them, delivering higher quality end-use metal parts through a more streamlined and accessible process, and within an even smaller footprint.”

The Studio System 2 with its furnace unit. Photo via Desktop Metal.
The Studio System 2 with its furnace unit. Photo via Desktop Metal.

Metal part fabrication with Desktop Metal

Since its founding in 2015, Desktop Metal has dipped its toes in several metal 3D printing technologies. The original extrusion-based Studio System, which comprises a printer, debinder, and furnace, has been shipping in volume since the end of 2018. The machine made a name for itself after being adopted by several high-profile companies in a range of industries, including BMW Group, Google, and 3M to name a few.

Over in the metal binder jetting space, Desktop Metal also offers its Shop and Production Systems. The former is marketed as the world’s first metal binder jetting system for machine shops and can 3D print up to 70kg of steel per day. On the other hand, the Production System is the company’s large-format printing engine featuring a build volume of 337 x 337 x 330mm.

An eBike motor mount 3D printed on the Studio System 2. Photo via Desktop Metal.
An eBike motor mount 3D printed on the Studio System 2. Photo via Desktop Metal.

The Studio System 2

Retaining all of its predecessor’s key features, the Studio System 2 packs two quick-release print heads and a build volume measuring 300 x 200 x 200mm. It operates on a new streamlined two-step process with a core printer and a furnace unit. As such, it consolidates the previous debind-sinter stage into one, reducing the system’s footprint while eliminating the use of solvents. Once printed, green parts are placed in the 1400°C furnace to increase their densities and improve their mechanical properties, at which point they are ready for use.

On the software side of things, the Studio System 2 comes complete with new print profiles and a novel high-strength isotropic TMPS infill setting for optimal part strengths and surface finishes. Launched alongside the machine, Desktop Metal currently offers a 316L stainless steel material, with additional alloys set to be rolled out throughout 2021.

Fulop adds, “Companies can use our more streamlined Studio System 2 process to produce difficult-to-machine parts featuring complex geometries like undercuts and internal channels. Across manufacturing, tooling, automotive, consumer products and electronics, and medical applications, companies are sharing how additive manufacturing is challenging their design and engineering teams to think differently about how to optimize designs for best-in-class part success.”

The new high-strength isotropic TMPS infill setting. Photo via Desktop Metal.
The new high-strength isotropic TMPS infill setting. Photo via Desktop Metal.

Technical specifications and pricing

Below are the technical specifications for the Studio System 2 3D printer. The machine is set to begin worldwide shipments in Q1 2021 and will be available as an upgrade to all existing Studio System customers. Readers interested in purchasing the machine can visit the Desktop Metal website for a quote.

Print technologyBound Metal Deposition
Layer height50 – 300 microns
Max build weight6.5kg
Printer dimensions948 x 823 x 529mm
Weight97kg
Build volume300 x 200 x 200mm
Build plateHeated to 70°C
Chamber viewBuild plate camera
ConnectivityWireless and ethernet

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Featured image shows the Studio System 2 with its furnace unit. Photo via Desktop Metal.