Metal 3D printer FastForm DeskFab X1

Metal 3D printer FastForm DeskFab X1

FastForm DeskFab X1 is an SLM metal 3D printer designed to produce metal parts layer by layer using selective laser melting of metal powder. A 300 W fiber laser, a Ø100 × 80 mm build volume, and printing accuracy of ±50 μm make it possible to produce compact parts with complex shapes. The printer can be used to manufacture dental structures, functional prototypes, and small metal components based on digital 3D models.

Advantages of FastForm DeskFab X1

• High printing detail. The laser spot diameter of 50–80 μm provides precise, localized melting of metal powder when forming part contours. Printing accuracy of ±50 μm is important for producing small parts with specific dimensions.
• Adjustable layer thickness. The 20–150 μm range allows users to adjust the printing process according to model complexity and surface requirements. A thinner layer increases the number of layers needed to complete a part but helps reproduce angled surfaces more accurately.
• Controlled powder spreading. A recoater with a soft blade spreads the material across the build platform before each melting cycle. The system supports repeated and one-way powder spreading.
• Recovery after power interruptions. The automatic recovery function allows the printer to continue a printing job after a power failure. This reduces the risk of losing an unfinished print.
• Long filter service life. The permanent filter is designed to operate for at least 30,000 hours. This system reduces the need for regular replacement of filter elements.

Layer-by-Layer Laser Melting of Metal Powder

Selective laser melting makes it possible to manufacture metal parts directly from digital 3D models. Unlike FDM technology, where a part is formed from melted plastic filament, SLM printing uses a laser to melt metal powder in selected areas. The printing process begins with an even layer of powder spread across the build platform. The laser beam follows a defined path and melts the material according to the corresponding cross-section of the model. After each layer is completed, the platform moves down, and the recoater spreads a new layer of powder.

DeskFab X1 is equipped with one 300 W continuous-wave fiber laser. The maximum scanning speed is 7 m/s, and the melting process takes place in a controlled gas environment with an oxygen concentration of no more than 100 ppm. Water cooling removes heat from the relevant parts of the equipment. The permanent filtration system cleans the gas environment during metal powder processing.

SLM Printing Accuracy and Complex Geometry

Dimensional accuracy is especially important for dental structures, small mechanical components, and functional prototypes. FastForm DeskFab X1 provides printing accuracy of ±50 μm, allowing users to produce parts with controlled dimensions. The laser spot diameter of 50–80 μm defines the size of the area affected by the laser beam on the powder layer. This parameter influences the formation of contours and small geometric features, but it does not directly indicate the minimum wall thickness.

The layer thickness can be adjusted between 20 and 150 μm. Thinner layers help reduce the visible staircase effect on angled surfaces, while thicker layers reduce the number of layers required to reach a specific part height. Final accuracy depends on the type of metal powder, laser melting settings, part orientation, and post-processing. Parts with strict tolerances require dimensional inspection after printing.

Build Volume for Compact Metal Parts

The cylindrical build volume, with a diameter of 100 mm and a height of 80 mm, defines the maximum space available for models during printing. This size is suitable for small parts, including dental frameworks, metal crown bases, brackets, and connecting components.

The position of parts on the platform depends on their dimensions, orientation, and required support structures. When printing several models at the same time, users must consider the distance between parts and the available build area.

The laser scanning speed reaches 7 m/s. The actual printing time depends on the material volume, model height, layer thickness, and laser melting settings.

Compatible Metal Powders for DeskFab X1

Metal powders suitable for selective laser melting are used to manufacture parts. The FastForm DeskFab X1 specifications list cobalt-chromium alloys, pure titanium, and titanium alloys.

• Cobalt-chromium alloys. Used in dental manufacturing for denture frameworks, metal crown bases, and dental bridges. These materials offer high stiffness, mechanical strength, and corrosion resistance.
• Pure titanium. Used to produce metal components that require low density and corrosion resistance. Medical devices require suitable material grades with confirmed properties.
• Titanium alloys. Suitable for functional parts that require a high strength-to-weight ratio. The specific alloy is selected according to the mechanical requirements of the part and the available printing parameters.

Before using metal powder, it is necessary to check whether the specific material grade is compatible with the equipment and whether suitable printing settings are available.

Applications of Metal 3D Printing in Dentistry and Engineering

The DeskFab X1 build volume is designed for compact parts that require dimensional accuracy and the ability to create complex shapes.

• Dental frameworks and prostheses. SLM technology makes it possible to manufacture metal frameworks for removable dentures, crown bases, and dental bridges based on individual digital models.
• Functional engineering prototypes. Metal 3D printing is used to create test samples, check design solutions, and test parts before production begins.
• Compact mechanical components. Layer-by-layer powder melting allows users to produce small brackets, connecting elements, and parts with complex internal or external geometry.
• Research laboratories. The equipment can be used to study laser melting processes for metal powders and examine how printing parameters affect the properties of finished parts.
• Small-batch production. Additive manufacturing makes it possible to produce small batches of components without casting molds. The number of parts produced in one cycle depends on their size and position within the build volume.

Software for Model Preparation

Digital model preparation and printing jobs are managed using FastLayer and FastFab software. FastLayer is designed to prepare models for layer-by-layer manufacturing. The software is used to create the data required for the additive manufacturing process.

FastFab controls the equipment during printing jobs. The software supports automatic model arrangement and planning of printing paths. This helps organize printing jobs according to the geometry of the parts.

3D Printing and Laser System Parameters

Materials and Software

Dimensions and Operating Specifications

Buy FastForm DeskFab X1 Metal 3D Printer

Order FastForm DeskFab X1 for manufacturing dental structures, functional prototypes, and compact metal parts using SLM technology. Our specialists will provide advice on technical specifications, compatible materials, equipment configuration, and delivery conditions.