NEW YORK/UTRECHT, Netherlands, November 15, 2023—UltiMaker, a global leader in desktop 3D printing, today announced the long-awaited compatibility of the Method series 3D printers with UltiMaker Cura, the world’s most popular 3D printing software. This integration marks a significant milestone, following last year’s merger of Ultimaker and MakerBot, and provides Method X and Method XL 3D printer users with seamless access to the full suite of Cura features.
In the latest Cura 5.6 beta release, users can now find new print profiles for the Method X and Method XL 3D printers as well as new material profiles for ABS-R, ABS-CF (Carbon Fiber), and RapidRinse™. These profiles are as professionally tuned and extensively tested as the profiles for the S series 3D printers and materials, ensuring that Method users get the same level of experience as S series users. Method users can leverage the power of Cura, which has over 600 settings, for complete 3D printing flexibility. With regular updates to add new features, like tree supports and the Arachne slicing engine, Cura continuously provides users with the latest capabilities to enable 3D printing success.
“We are thrilled to finally be able to offer slicing for the Method series 3D printers on Cura,” said Arjen Dirks, Head of Community and Software, UltiMaker. “We believe that this will open up a world of possibilities, providing Method users with more control, flexibility, and efficiency in their 3D printing processes.”
The Method series was created for high-quality production of manufacturing applications, from prototyping and tooling to end-use parts. The latest in the Method series, Method XL is designed to be the ultimate 3D printing solution for engineering applications.
With a spacious 305 mm x 305 mm x 320 mm build volume, Method XL allows users to create large, complex, and durable parts. Method XL delivers precise, engineering-grade ABS prototypes, powered by its heated build plate and heated chamber, which can reach up to 100°C. This duo adds an extra layer of security to avoid warping or layer adhesion issues. Combined with RapidRinse, a fast-dissolving water-soluble support material, and an integrated HEPA air filter, Method XL makes printing with ABS a simpler and safer process.
“The Method platform has been fantastic for us. We were one of the first users of Method, so going to Method XL was a seamless transition,” said Marco Perry, co-founder, partner, and engineering director at PENSA and PENSA Labs. “When we prototype parts, we’ll use ABS. It’s the perfect balance of material properties like durability, strength, and part reliability. Using Method XL, we know we’ll get great ABS parts that we can match in injection molding. So when we do short-run productions on XL, we’ll run batches at a time, knowing that we’ll get the same high-quality results each time.”
The Method series 3D printers will continue to work with CloudPrint™, which offers cloud-based print preparation and remote print management. Users who have strict security policies and cloud restrictions in place can use Cura as a secure alternative that is locally installed on their desktops.
This is the first phase of updates designed to improve the compatibility of the Method series with Cura. Future releases plan to include additional material profiles as well as compatibility with the UltiMaker Digital Factory.
For more information on Method XL, visit https://www.ultimaker.com/3d-printers/method-series/ultimaker-method-xl/#cura.
To download a free copy or learn about the latest features in Cura 5.6 beta, visit https://ultimaker.com/learn/ultimaker-cura-5-6-beta-release-notes/.
About UltiMaker
UltiMaker is a global leader in 3D printing, focused on shaping the future of manufacturing and product development. With a wide range of cutting-edge 3D printing solutions, including the popular S and Method series, and an extensive portfolio of 3D printing materials, UltiMaker is paving the way for innovation across industries. As part of its dedication to advancing education, UltiMaker also offers the MakerBot sub-brand and Sketch series, providing one of the most comprehensive 3D printing ecosystems for classroom learning. With a focus on reliability, precision, and innovation, UltiMaker is empowering customers to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Learn more at www.ultimaker.com.
Ultimaker and Cura are trademarks or registered trademarks of UltiMaker Holding B.V. MakerBot, CloudPrint, and RapidRinse are trademarks or registered trademarks of MakerBot Industries, LLC. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
