A Boston startup has introduced the first 3D printer capable of printing in carbon fiber, the super-strong and lightweight material used in race cars and space shuttles.
After a year of stealth development, the Mark One printer from Mark Forged was unveiled at the SolidWorks 3D-printing expo this week and is expected to retail for just $5,000.
The desktop printer is also capable of printing in fiberglass, nylon, and the thermoplastic PLA, as well as a composite of these materials with layers of carbon fiber added for strength. Mark Forged says it will be useful in building stronger prototypes as well as "prosthetics, custom bones, tools, and fixtures."
Carbon fiber is 20 times stronger than the plastics typically used in 3D printing, Mark Forged says.
I must admit, my brain does not relate to 3D printing. I can understand taking a raw product and making something from it, but, not this. Creating something from nothing is beyond my comprehension. Next, someone will go to the moon, yea, right.
