Molex, world producer of digital and fiber optic connectivity methods, is working with Czech FDM 3D printer producer Prusa Analysis to help the combination of connector applied sciences into 3D printing methods. Key elements on this collaboration embody Molex’s CLIK-Mate wire-to-board connectors, Micro-Match energy connectors, and ultra-microcoaxial RF connectors.
With help from American multinational electronics elements distributor Arrow Electronics, these methods are designed to streamline meeting processes and simplify upgrades and new product introductions.
“Prusa Analysis wanted connectivity methods with the fitting stability of performance and ease with out compromising high quality,” mentioned Brian Hauge, SVP and president, Shopper and Industrial Options, Molex. “With help from Arrow Electronics, we offer a full portfolio of connectors which can be sturdy but straightforward to make use of. Molex additionally stays in lockstep with Arrow and Prusa engineers to align rising printer designs with new revolutionary connector options to ease new product introductions and upgrades.”
Prusa: Scaling Operations to Meet International Demand
In 2024, Prusa Analysis processed over 300,000 orders for printers, filaments, resins, and equipment. To additional strengthen its world presence, the corporate additionally established a U.S. subsidiary, Printed Stable, in Newark, Delaware, centered on producing printers and filaments inside the US.
As a part of its ongoing growth, Prusa Analysis integrated Molex connector methods into its manufacturing course of. The CLIK-Mate connectors had been chosen for his or her low insertion power, safe terminal design, and audible engagement function, making certain exact set up. Prusa highlighted that CLIK-Mate connectors not solely guarantee DIY customers keep away from incorrect connections, but in addition help engineers in enhancing manufacturing effectivity by accelerating the floor mount know-how (SMT) meeting course of.
By early 2025, Prusa is using as much as 16 variations of CLIK-Mate connectors throughout its printer lineup, together with the newly launched CORE One mannequin.
“In 2024, Prusa grew 25% yr over yr, and we’re excited for this yr, which can be even greater,” mentioned Josef Prusa, CEO of Prusa Analysis. “We populated over a million elements utilizing Molex CLIK-Mate connectors final yr, they usually’ve all delivered glorious efficiency. With over 20 printer fashions utilizing Molex connectors, we’re persevering with our collaboration with Arrow and Molex to develop additional throughout Europe and scale our U.S. operations.”
Further Molex methods utilized by Prusa embody Micro-Match Connectors for combining sign and energy in constrained areas, and ultra-microcoaxial RF connectors for Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections. The corporate can be evaluating Molex’s Straightforward-On FFC/FPC connectors and different custom-made connectivity options for potential implementation in future fashions.
Prusa Analysis’s Increasing Lineup
Prusa Analysis continues to evolve its 3D printer portfolio to satisfy the wants of each skilled and superior desktop customers.
One in every of Prusa’s newest improvements is the Prusa XL, that includes a CoreXY configuration and a 360 mm³ print quantity. This mannequin stands out with its device changer that features 5 impartial toolheads, lowering waste in comparison with single-nozzle alternate options and providing elevated versatility. Whereas the Prusa XL might not be the quickest desktop FFF 3D printer, with a most 3D print pace of 400 mm/s, its potential to seamlessly change between toolheads for various nozzle sizes and filament sorts enhances productiveness, particularly for multi-material elements. The absolutely assembled model of the Prusa XL is priced at €2,599, whereas the semi-assembled mannequin is accessible for €2,099 on the official Prusa web site.
Moreover, Prusa’s professional-grade choices embody the Prusa Professional HT90, a delta-kinematics 3D printer designed for high-speed, high-temperature FDM printing. The Prusa Professional HT90 delivers spectacular efficiency with journey speeds of as much as 600 mm/s, 3D print speeds of 250 mm/s, and acceleration charges of 20,000 mm/s². The system options light-weight, quick-swap printheads, with a direct-drive extruder to boost manufacturing effectivity. Its Excessive-Temp printhead can attain temperatures as much as 500°C, appropriate for difficult supplies, whereas the Excessive-Circulate head operates greatest at 300°C, enabling the printer to deposit 1 kg of PETG or ABS in simply 8 hours. The Prusa Professional HT90 is accessible beginning at €11,490.
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Featured picture exhibits the brand new Prusa Core One. Picture through Prusa Analysis.
