Stratasys Launches SAF™: Revolutionizing Powder Bed Fusion with High‑Speed Production

Stratasys has introduced Selective Absorption Fusion (SAF™), a breakthrough powder‑bed fusion technology poised to elevate additive manufacturing for high‑volume production.

SAF™ Background

With more than a decade of research and development in powder‑bed fusion, Stratasys has partnered with industry leaders to refine the technology. In July 2018, Stratasys and Xaar PLC formed Xaar 3D Limited, combining Xaar’s world‑leading piezo‑based drop‑on‑demand inkjet expertise with Stratasys’ additive manufacturing platform. This collaboration accelerated the creation of SAF™—a technology that emerged from the joint venture in March 2021.

SAF™ Process

SAF™ distinguishes itself through its unique implementation. An infrared‑sensitive High‑Absorbing Fluid (HAF™) fuses polymer powder layer by layer. The proprietary Big Wave™ powder‑management system distributes powder uniformly across the bed via counter‑rotating rollers. Industrial‑grade piezo‑electric printheads jet HAF™ precisely where it is needed, and targeted infrared energy melts and fuses the material in a single, one‑pass cycle. This streamlined workflow delivers consistent parts regardless of build orientation, while real‑time powder heating and advanced thermal management expand the usable powder range and part property spectrum.

SAF™ Applications

Designed for industrial‑grade throughput, SAF™ excels at producing end‑use parts that benefit from mass customization at a low cost per unit. Hundreds of components can be nested on a single build tray, enabling true production‑level quantities. Automotive, aerospace, defense, and other manufacturing sectors that demand accurate, repeatable parts at competitive cost are primary beneficiaries of SAF™ technology.

What’s Next?

Stratasys is rolling out the H Series™ Production Platform powered by SAF™. Commercial models were slated for availability in Q3 2021, marking a significant milestone in high‑speed, high‑quality additive manufacturing.

Learn More About SAF™ Technology

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