Monotech Systems, a prominent provider of 3D printing and advanced manufacturing solutions, has launched the Markforged FX10, a cutting-edge industrial 3D printer, in India. The unveiling event took place on 19 December 2024, at the Radisson Blu Hotel Chennai, attracting industry leaders and dignitaries from diverse sectors.
The company claims that Markforged FX10 stands out as the world’s first industrial 3D printer to offer both metal and composite printing capabilities. Its modular print system enables seamless switching between metal and composite print engines, providing unparalleled flexibility for users. Boasting a large build volume of 375 mm x 300 mm x 300 mm, the FX10 is designed to enhance productivity by delivering robust, precise tools and fixtures.
Chief guest Gaurav Sarda, regional head – East Coast region, emerging corporate group, HDFC Bank, hailed the FX10’s launch as a milestone for India’s manufacturing industry. He also highlighted Monotech’s R&D facility in Ambattur, Chennai, as a symbol of the company’s innovation-driven approach.
Advanced features and material support
The FX10 offers several advanced features, including:
- Printhead-Mounted Optical Sensors: For verifying dimensional accuracy and monitoring device health.
- Automatic Calibration and Material Changeover: Ensuring efficient operations and minimal downtime.
- Wide Material Compatibility:
- Composite Materials: Onyx, Onyx FR, Onyx ESD, Continuous Carbon Fiber, and Nylon variants.
- Metal Materials: 17-4PH Stainless Steel v2 and 316L Stainless Steel.
Insights from industry leaders
The event commenced with introductory remarks from Rajesh Mrithyunjayan, VP – 3D Products and Solutions at 3D Monotech, and Prashant Sinha, Markforged country manager, India. Both emphasized the strong partnership between Monotech Systems and Markforged in driving innovation.
Richard Elving, VP sales for Markforged in the APAC region, highlighted India’s growing prominence as a global manufacturing hub. “India is emerging as a leading manufacturing destination as the world explores alternatives,” he said.
Tej Prakash Jain, managing director of Monotech Systems, reflected on the company’s growth since its inception in 1999, expanding from a small six-person team to a 600-strong workforce. “The launch of the FX10 marks another milestone in our journey, mirroring India’s expanding capabilities in manufacturing,” he adds.
Keynote Highlights and Industry Applications
The event featured presentations from distinguished speakers, showcasing the transformative potential of 3D printing across industries:
- Dr G Saravana Kumar from IIT Madras shared insights into 3D and 4D printing advancements in healthcare.
- Aravind Udupi, head of engineering at Nordex Group, demonstrated how Markforged printers reduced their design-to-production cycle to just 18 months.
- Dr Winstone Deaver, research engineer at 3D GRAPHYLLP, presented a case study where 3D printing reduced an Indian Navy impeller’s weight from 8 kg to 1 kg.
- Sr scientist Ravi Babu from CSIR discussed applications in batteries, bioprinting, and the chemical industry.
Prashant Sinha concluded the event by showcasing the FX10’s capabilities and highlighting successful implementations of Markforged printers across aerospace, marine, energy, research laboratories, drones, and more. Attendees left with valuable insights into the FX10’s potential to revolutionize manufacturing and its role in advancing India’s industrial landscape.
