The Phenom Forge Brings Large-Format Functional Resin Printing to the Masses

MakeUseOf

By Nachiket Mhatre

Published Apr 13, 2022

Peopoly’s Phenom Forge resin printer incorporates improved MSLA optics and a new Nylon-like resin to make large, functional resin parts a reality.

Image Credit: Peopoly

Hong Kong-based resin 3D printer manufacturer Peopoly has announced the Phenom Forge large format MSLA printer. It boasts a high-contrast 6K LCD panel and large build volume designed to work in conjunction with a new Nylon-like tough resin to deliver functional 3D prints.

MSLA Optics Optimized for Large Format Printing

The new MSLA optics support a large build volume of 288 x 163 x 350mm thanks to a parallel LED arrangement that advertises 500 nits of brightness. The improved LCD panel, however, is almost four times more expensive to replace at $450 compared to the outgoing Phenom variant’s $120 replacement panel. The latter is rated for an average lifespan of 400 hours. However, Peopoly hasn’t specified the expected durability of the new LCD panel.

The Peopoly Phenom Forge also comes with a number of quality-of-life enhancements, such as a temperature-controlled vat for consistent print quality and a remote print monitoring capability thanks to an inbuilt camera and Wi-Fi connectivity. The printer’s power source is UL-certified and promises higher efficiency and lower operating noise due to a quiet cooling setup.

The Peopoly Phenom Forge also has scope for optional add-on upgrades, ranging from chamber heating functionality for better reliability, to air duct venting for improved health and safety.

Peopoly Phenom Forge Supports Print Farms and Open Formats

The MSLA printer’s large build volume is targeted at semi-professional users. The Phenom Forge incorporates fleet management functionality that makes it conducive to print farms. Peopoly has also launched a new Nylon-like resin designed to work with the Phenom Forge. The tough resin is geared towards commercial resin printing needs that prioritize large, strong parts over cosmetic designs.

Read more on the distinction between functional and cosmetic parts in our FDM vs. SLA printing technology comparison.

Unlike the recent trend of resin printers shipping with increasingly locked ecosystems, Peopoly has equipped the Phenom Forge with a significantly less restrictive Vlare Core controller board. The printer therefore supports open file formats and a variety of slicer options such as Lychee and Voxeldance Tango slicers, in addition to the default Vlare Slicer.

Peopoly Is Offering a 30% Pre-Order Discount

The printer ships in two boxes and takes about an hour for tool-less assembly. Peopoly is currently offering a time limited launch price of $1299 (exclusive of shipping) on the official store, with the actual retail price pegged at $1899. Shipments are expected to resume in “mid-May” 2022.