Now easier than ever to prototype, create custom tooling and fabricate end-use parts all on one platform! Precise PLA is Markforged’s specialized version of one of the most common prototyping materials in the additive manufacturing industry, Polylactic Acid (PLA). The Digital Forge has been calibrated, with changes in Eiger software, to print Precise PLA with excellent quality and repeatability. Precise PLA is a cost-efficient option for assessing designs using the Digital Forge.

Key Features of Precise PLA:

• More suitable for prototypes, fit checks and concept models than Markforged's other specialised materials.

• Validate concepts efficiently and product beautiful parts, but still do it the ‘Markforged way’

• Available in eight colours: Yellow, red, orange, green, blue, grey, black and white.

• Currently available with Mark Two and Onyx Pro.

We recommend Precise PLA as a more cost-effective option for prototypes, fit checks, or any other applications you can think of. Additionally, the distinct colours can enhance usability and safety of shop tools and fixtures by facilitating communicative colour codes.

Zero Tolerance LLC, an injection molding and machine shop that specializes in helping manufacturers bring their products from concept to production, was an early tester of Precise PLA. In addition to prototyping, Zero Tolerance also uses Precise PLA in conjunction with Markforged’s high-strength composite materials to print fiberglass-reinforced assembly tools with color-coded handles printed in Precise PLA -- the colours help the operator quickly identify the correct tool for each job, thereby reducing mistakes and improving efficiency.

“When using other 3D printers and PLA materials, the results were not as precise as required, even after multiple iterations. Printing parts to the size and quality we need, with the required functionality and at a great price point is critical for our business,”

“Once design validation using Precise PLA is completed, we move to production with Markforged’s Onyx material for functional testing, followed by printing with continuous carbon fibre for added safety for our final, end-use part. With this new material, we can now utilise our Markforged printer to deliver great results repeatedly throughout the entire design and manufacturing process. This is the most reliable additive platform we’ve ever used. It just works.”

Historically, Markforged users have created mission critical, tools and end use parts with Markforged’s high quality printers and high-strength materials. By bringing cost-effective prototyping materials and functional applications together on one simple-to-use platform, Markforged now offers users a more streamlined approach to bringing final designs to life.

“A material devoted to lower-cost concept models and prototypes was a top feature request from Markforged customers. We heard this feedback and fine tuned our software and printers to print in Precise PLA, now giving our users an added dimension of versatility. We also hope this update empowers our customers to have a little more fun in the design process with the added splash of colors. This is just one more example of how the Digital Forge constantly powers new applications and gets better as we take in more data and feedback from our install base.”

Want to learn more?

The Markforged Precise PLA is available to order now at Solid Print3D. Contact us at info@solidprint3d.co.uk or give us a call on 01926 333 777.