The startup iNEW3D has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund the QC2A, a 3D printer that promises to bring Material Jetting technology to a revolutionary price. With a target cost under 10,000 euros, this machine aims to democratize full-color 3D printing, a field until now dominated by industrial equipment exceeding 50,000 euros. It is aimed at design studios, architecture, education, and small businesses that need prototypes or models with vibrant colors and realistic gradients without a disproportionate investment.
Desktop Material Jetting: specifications and comparison 🤔
The QC2A's key technology is Material Jetting, similar to that of an inkjet printer. It uses heads to deposit microscopic droplets of CMYK photopolymer resin, which are instantly cured with UV light. This allows printing objects with full color palettes and smooth surface textures in a single process, without post-processing painting. Compared to a desktop FDM or SLA, the difference in color quality and detail is abysmal. Its main competition is industrial printers like those from Stratasys, but at a fraction of their initial cost, although it is crucial to evaluate the price of special resins and maintenance.
A real revolution or a very specific niche? 🎯
The QC2A is an extremely attractive proposal for applications where color and realism are crucial, such as product prototypes or architectural models. However, its adoption will depend on long-term operating costs, mainly the proprietary resins. For users who only need shapes or flat colors, an SLA is still more economical. It is not a printer for everyone, but it could change the game for a professional sector that until now could not afford high-end color.
Can iNEW3D QC2A's Material Jetting technology truly democratize high-resolution color 3D printing for small studios and professionals?
(PS: RAM is never enough, like coffees on a Monday morning)