With the Metal 1.0, a new 3D printer is currently attracting attention in the tech scene. The device is designed to enable affordable metal 3D printing in a compact form for the first time, opening up applications that were previously reserved for industrial systems. What is particularly exciting is that the system uses a powerful diode laser instead of traditional heating technology. This means that robust metal components can be produced directly in your own workspace – at least according to the manufacturer.
- Metal 3D printing with a diode laser (60 watts) instead of a conventional hotend
- Supports materials such as stainless steel, bronze and Inconel 718
- Compact installation space (128 × 100 mm) with fine layer thicknesses
- Crowdfunding price of around 8,500 euros
Metal 1.0 3D printer: New technology for metal processing in desktop format
The Metal 1.0 3D printer takes an approach that differs significantly from traditional FDM or resin printers. While conventional devices melt plastics or harden resins, this system uses a 60-watt diode laser to fuse metal powder in a targeted manner. This process is reminiscent of industrial laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), but is transferred to a much more compact format here.
From a technical point of view, the approach is plausible, albeit with limitations. Industrial metal 3D printers usually work with significantly higher laser powers and strictly controlled environments. The Metal 1.0 apparently reduces these requirements to a minimum, but still relies on an inert gas – specifically nitrogen – to prevent oxidation during the printing process. The consumption of around 10 ml per minute seems realistic, but could present an additional hurdle in everyday use.
With a layer thickness of 0.05 to 0.1 millimeters, the system is within the usual range for precise printing processes. However, the comparatively small installation space of 128 × 100 millimeters clearly shows that the device is more suitable for smaller components or prototypes than for large-scale constructions.
Possibilities, materials and limits of the new generation
The variety of materials that the Metal 1.0 is designed to support is particularly interesting. In addition to stainless steel (316), bronze and Inconel 718 are also mentioned – materials that are usually used in industry for heavy-duty components. If this works reliably in practice, users could produce functional parts such as brackets, tools or mechanical components themselves.
However, a critical eye remains important. The presentation is taking place as part of a crowdfunding campaign, which is fundamentally associated with uncertainties. Information on the actual print quality, long-term stability and safety in operation has been limited to date. Especially when handling metal powders and laser technology, protective measures play a central role, which should not be underestimated in the desktop sector.
Another aspect is the target group: the price of around 8,500 euros and the requirements for gas supply and technical understanding clearly indicate that the device is aimed more at professional users, workshops or ambitious makers. For beginners, getting started with metal 3D printing is likely to remain complex.
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Nevertheless, the Metal 1.0 shows an exciting development in the market. The miniaturization of industrial technologies could help to make metal 3D printing more accessible in the long term and open up new areas of application.
Conclusion
The Metal 1.0 3D printer brings a promising approach to the field of metal 3D printing, but still has certain limitations. The technology seems fundamentally plausible, but still requires special expertise and infrastructure. With an entry-level price of around 8,500 euros and planned delivery via a crowdfunding campaign, the system is clearly aimed at experienced users. If it is successfully implemented, this could be an important step towards affordable metal production.
