Key Takeaways
- Metal Base has introduced a low-cost metal LPBF system for under $10,000
- The system has already sold six units to beta customers and has a funded Kickstarter campaign
- Scrap Labs is debuting its own metal LPBF system, the Scrap 1, with a pre-order price of $14,990 for a kit and $17,990 for a fully assembled printer
- The Scrap 1 is expected to ship in 2027
- The metal LPBF market is evolving with new players and competitive pricing
Introduction to Metal LPBF
Metal Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) is a 3D printing technology that uses a laser to melt and fuse metal powders together, creating complex geometries and high-density parts. Traditionally, metal LPBF systems have been expensive, with prices ranging from $50,000 to over $1 million. However, recent developments have led to the introduction of more affordable systems, making this technology more accessible to a wider range of users.
Metal Base: A Low-Cost Metal LPBF System
Dutch firm Metal Base has engineered a value-engineered metal LPBF system that debuted at under $10,000. The system features a direct path to the powder bed and superior airflow, making it an attractive option for those looking for a low-cost entry point into metal LPBF. With six systems already sold to beta customers and a funded Kickstarter campaign that has raised €93,870, Metal Base is poised to disrupt the metal LPBF market.
Scrap Labs: A New Player in the Metal LPBF Market
US-based Scrap Labs is joining the fray with its own metal LPBF system, the Scrap 1. The company plans to debut the system at the Rocky Mountain RepRap Festival (RMRRF) in mid-April and will offer a pre-order for a kit at $14,990 and a fully assembled printer at $17,990. The Scrap 1 is expected to ship in 2027, making it a promising option for those looking for a more affordable metal LPBF system.
Comparison of Metal LPBF Systems
| System | Price | Expected Ship Date |
|---|---|---|
| Metal Base | Under $10,000 | Already shipping |
| Scrap Labs Scrap 1 | $14,990 (kit), $17,990 (assembled) | 2027 |
Conclusion
The metal LPBF market is evolving rapidly, with new players and competitive pricing. Metal Base and Scrap Labs are leading the charge, offering affordable metal LPBF systems that are poised to disrupt the market. With prices under $20,000, these systems are making metal LPBF more accessible to a wider range of users, from hobbyists to small businesses.
Bottom Line
The introduction of low-cost metal LPBF systems by Metal Base and Scrap Labs is a significant development in the 3D printing industry. With prices under $20,000, these systems are making metal LPBF more accessible to a wider range of users, and are expected to drive innovation and growth in the industry. As the market continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more affordable and capable metal LPBF systems, further democratizing access to this powerful technology.