MAR-000276_v.1.3
Chapter:
Introduction
Page 4 of 48
1
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Fluidic Factory from Dolomite Microfluidics.
These instructions have been carefully prepared to guide the installer and
end-user through the installation and use of the Fluidic Factory.
Before attempting to use this product, please read this manual thoroughly
and follow the instructions carefully. In doing so you will ensure the safety of
yourself and that of others around you, and you can look forward to your
purchase giving you long and satisfactory service.
Please keep the manual easily accessible and in immediate vicinity of the
module. Only suitably qualified and trained personnel should operate this
unit.
Fluidic Factory is not only the world's first COC printer, but is also the first
printer able to fabricate fluidically sealed devices. Fluidic Factory uses FDM
(fused deposition modelling) method to melt the polymer at high
temperatures, eject it through the nozzle onto the print bed and let it
solidifies at temperatures below 75°C. What sets the Fluidic Factor apart
from all other FDM printers is the unique way in which the layers are formed.
It can achieve this because of a state of the art approach to 3D printing.
Intelligent software:
The desktop PC software analyses the 3D geometry of the device
and identifies the internal voids and surfaces. The print paths are
then created from the inside of the device outwards and the print
head deposits filaments in a continuous, leak-proof manner
.
Intuitive user interface and workflow:
Fluidic Factory features a tap screen and USB drive to enable easy
transfer of print files from a PC. Once the USB is inserted into the
Fluidic Factory, the file becomes available to select and print. Once
printing is started, the screen displays the time left to print, real-time
status and filament use.
Inductive heating:
Fluidic Factory's clever design allows COC filaments to melt together
when depositing on top of each other. A small volume of polymer is
melted to a fluid state at very high temperatures and only held a few
seconds before ejecting and depositing in a 'squashed' manner. This
ensures excellent adherence, optimal polymer quality and leak-free
channels.
'Squashed' bead method*:
Fluidic Factory uses a 'squashed' bead method when depositing
beads as opposed to many traditional FDM printers which deposit
beads in circular cross-sections. The system is optimized for fluidic
sealing.
*FDM printers eject the molten polymer, which cools down
and solidifies. What is ejected is called a bead. The size of the bead
depends on the speed that the nozzle is moving, the nozzle
diameter and the rate at which the polymer is ejected.
