Atom 3, the first 3D printer that combines FDM and SLA into one

3D printer manufacturer Layer One has just revealed its latest machine the Atom 3, which is capable of combining two 3D printing technologies, FDM, and stereolithography. In addition, check out our Top 10 resin 3D printers for some similar printers.

Based in Taiwan, Layer One created their 3D delta FDM printer, the Atom, a few years ago. However, they realized that FDM technology was not enough when printing with a higher level of detail; it is more suitable for producing solid and functional components as well as prototypes. When it comes to Stereolithography, it gives thinner results that are able to achieve a higher level of performance and better accuracy. With the Atom 3, Layer One decided to combine the two processes in order to allow for easy creation of large and small detailed parts.

Stereolithography offers a high level of detail

“Even with our ultra-rigid design and a .2 mm nozzle, it’s impossible to achieve super high detail with FDM, no matter how hard you try. SLA is the only way we can offer this capability to our customers,” said Lawrence Lee, founder and CEO of Layer One.