Protolabs Expands 3D Printing Options with Hybrid Photosynthesis Technology

Digital manufacturing leader Protolabs today expanded its 3D printing capabilities with the launch of an advanced photopolymer technology. Axtra3D Hybrid PhotoSynthesis (HPS) delivers highly repeatable and finely detailed 3D printed parts at increased speeds. HPS uses both a precision laser and a digital light processing (DLP) system to simultaneously image internal and external part structures—a dual 3D printing approach that overcomes traditional limitations.

HPS complements Protolabs’ current Carbon digital light synthesis (DLS) printers for 3D printing projects that require stronger mechanical properties. Both Carbon DLS and HPS feature near-isotropic parts and smooth surface finishes, but HPS technology also offers exceptionally high resolution compared to other 3D printing processes.