Desktop Metal introduces Forust to sustainably produce functional end-use wood parts
Desktop Metal is building up its diverse 3D printing technology portfolio with the launch of Forust – a new process that will sustainably produce functional end-use wood parts based on its patented Single Pass Binder Jetting AM technology. By upcycling waste byproducts from wood manufacturing (cellulose dust) and the paper industry (lignin), functional wood parts is re-materialized through high-speed 3D printing including digital grain throughout the part.
With the global finished wood products market expected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2027, Forust can come into the picture to create functional parts for virtually any wood application with a greatly improved environmental footprint.
Our finished pieces are indistinguishable from traditionally manufactured wood products you would find in a store. The additive manufacturing process literally becomes invisible.Andrew Jeffery, industry veteran and ceramics 3D printing pioneer
Depending on part size, Forust can be used on either the Shop System or a custom version of the new RAM 336 3D Printer (under EnvisionTec). During the process, layers of specially treated sawdust are spread and selectively joined by a non-toxic and biodegradable binder. Digital grain is printed on every layer and parts can then be sanded, stained, polished, dyed, coated and refinished in the same manner as traditionally manufactured wood components.
There are many applications where polymers and plastics are used today where you can now cost-effectively replace with sustainably manufactured wood parts – luxurious, high-end components in interiors, consumer electronics, instruments, aviation, boats, home goods and eventually in flooring and exterior roofing applications.
For each tree saved, we are reducing the carbon footprint by a metric ton over its lifetime.Ric Fulop, Founder and CEO of Desktop Metal
Visit the official Forust website to learn more about the technology, submit your designs to get it printed, or purchase ready-made 3D printed wood products.
With metal binder jetting, bound metal deposition, digital light processing for polymers, carbon fiber deposition, bioprinting, and now wood 3d printing on its portfolio, what will Desktop Metal be printing next?