Monolith, a Low-Cost Resin Printer

3D Printing & Imaging
Monolith, a Low-Cost Resin Printer

The Monolith uses a process called “stereolithography” to create a 3-dimensional object, layer by layer. A tray of special liquid resin in placed on the machine, then exposed to ultraviolet light. Areas that are exposed to UV light solidify into a thin layer of plastic. Areas that do not receive UV light remain liquid. The first layer, or cross section of a 3D model, adheres to a platform that has been lowered into the tray of resin. The platform then moves upward, separating it from the bottom of the tray, but not the build platform. The next layer does the same thing, only the platform is .004” higher, and it adheres to the first layer. This process repeats, over and over, until a solid object is created. The process appears almost magical, because it effectively “pulls” a solid object out of a slender pool of liquid. (…)

The Monolith was intentionally designed to be free of preparation software. This will allow the end user to choose the software that best fits their needs – from expensive professional solutions, to free open-source options, the choice is yours. Simply supply black & white layer images (jpeg, png, etc.) stored on a USB flash drive, select the project from the onscreen menu, and it will take it from there. No host computer required.

Build envelope – 16.88” x 9.5” x 33” (X, Y, Z)
XY resolution – .0088”
Z resolution – .004”
Build speed – 1.12” per hour (Z height)
Total device size: 21″ x 18″ x 71″
Total Weight: 135lbs

26 thoughts on “Monolith, a Low-Cost Resin Printer

  1. Anthony Aragues says:

    I wouldn’t put 10k in the low cost category

  2. Freeman Pascal says:

    $14K, $10K intro price – Wow. That’s firmly in the commercial price range. What maker has that much free cash?

  3. Cretin Nik says:

    I, too, question your definition of “low cost.”

  4. daenris says:

    especially considering there is a kickstarter running right now for an STL 3D printer kit for $495, though you have to supply your own DLP projector, so call it $900-1000.

  5. Robotbling (@PlasticPals) says:

    I’d say at the very least they ought to have some photos up showing example prints.

  6. Jack Van Gossen says:

    $10k is “low-cost” – to whom? I think if they did away with the designer furniture-looking casing, they could probably shave a few $k off the price tag. Does one really need precision-milled aircraft grade aluminum to make a 3D printer look cool?

  7. Benjamin Paul says:

    Photo showing print on the site.

  8. UKAMer says:

    That kind of money is slap bang in the price bracket of the new pro-grade ‘micro’ DLP systems which come with the projector and the software needed. Even the resin is near enough exactly the same price. I’d go with the professionals at this price bracket.

  9. Benjamin Paul says:

    Yes, I wouldn’t flat out call it “low-cost” myself either, because it’s not to everyone of course. However, I would say it’s low cost to someone about to spend 50K – 200K on comparable tech.

    Here’s a breakdown of some resin prices I’ve found for similar DLP systems:

    Asiga: $320 /lb
    V-Falsh :$214 /lb
    EnvisionTEC Ultra: $130 /lb
    Projet1500: $120 /lb
    Monolith: $62 /lb

    I’m currently not aware of a device with this build size, speed, etc. for under $10k, but I kinda wish there was. Would have bought it instead of making this one ;)

  10. David says:

    cool printer…what’s the bottom of the material tray made of/how do you solve the peeling between layers problem? been building one myself, and am currently trying to figure out the best way to do this….

  11. Bart Patrzalek says:

    i think its pretty cool having the glass top/build platform be used as a display for the menu but y u no post a picture of it working? i know its a prototype but a video of it working and more detailed pics would be nice especially if your trying to sell it for so much

  12. UKAMer says:

    New Envisiontec Micro system, 14,999 including projector, 2 year service contract and Magics software, definitely worth the 5k difference to get a full machine, software and service contract

  13. David says:

    ‘cept for the part where the envisiontec micro’s build area is only 1.5″x1.18″….. ):

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My interests include writing, electronics, RPGs, scifi, hackers & hackerspaces, 3D printing, building sets & toys. @johnbaichtal nerdage.net

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