Metal 1.0 has launched a desktop-scale metal 3D printer via a Kickstarter campaign, priced at 8,500 Euro.

Metal 1.0 has launched a desktop-scale metal 3D printer via a Kickstarter campaign, priced at 8,500 Euro. The system utilizes a 60-watt, 445 nm diode laser to process materials including 316L stainless steel, bronze, and Inconel 718. It features a build volume of 128 x 100 mm and achieves layer thicknesses between 0.05 and 0.1 mm. Operation requires an inert gas supply, specifically nitrogen, consumed at a rate of 10 mL per minute during the printing process.

This system enters a crowded market of low-cost metal additive manufacturing solutions that attempt to bridge the gap between high-end industrial LPBF systems and hobbyist-grade equipment. By utilizing a diode laser instead of high-power fiber lasers typical in industrial metal AM, the platform targets small-scale prototyping and specialized industrial components. The reliance on crowdfunding for hardware distribution introduces significant delivery and support risks for professional users who require consistent material properties and process repeatability for end-use parts.

Prospective buyers should verify the system's ability to manage thermal stress and porosity, as diode-based metal processing often struggles with the density requirements of critical components. The technical specifications suggest a focus on small, non-structural parts rather than high-performance industrial tooling. Successful adoption will depend on the manufacturer's ability to provide validated material parameters and reliable post-processing workflows for the specified alloys.