Remember those classic ZCorp printers used by Figulo that were offered for free?
There’s been an outcome.
To recap, many years ago there was a 3D print startup called Figulo, which was the first ceramic 3D print service. The company used ZCorp powder-based 3D printers, but with materials quite different from the standard ZCorp powders. The Figulo powders included ceramic materials, and the prints, after post-processing, were fully ceramic.
Figulo operated for several years, but was then scooped up by 3D Systems during their buying spree (during a several-year period the company acquired many dozens of 3D print startups). Like most of the acquired companies, 3D Systems didn’t follow through and the process faded away.
The equipment used by Figulo was acquired by one of the principals, Forrest Snyder. He’s had the machines for a while, but wanted to donate them to a worthy recipient.
We published a story about this in order to spread the word about the availability of the equipment, in the hope that someone would come forward.
Now I’ve heard back from Snyder about the outcome, and it isn’t good. He writes:
”I’ve had interest from as far away as Iceland and coast to coast here in North America. Unfortunately, every single person has fallen through for various reasons (including a vehicle burning to the ground from errant fireworks, apparently).”
As of this moment, the classic 3D printers are unclaimed. Snyder explained that at the end of the month he is going to have to remove them, and it’s very likely they will be sent to the local scrapyard.
This would be the final call: If you’re interested in taking on these binder jet printers, Snyder asks that you contact him at [email protected] to arrange the details.
