ToughONE™ – Stratasys’ new ultra-strong material takes PolyJet 3D printing to the next level
Stratasys PolyJet technology has been the benchmark for visual prototyping for years: lifelike colors, extremely fine details, and smooth surfaces – these are the things that make the technology ideal for demonstrating design concepts. However, industry professionals have long recognized a major limitation: the fragility of the materials meant that the prints were not suitable for functional testing or real-world applications.
With the introduction of ToughONE™, Stratasys has opened up new dimensions. Announced in June, the new material represents a true breakthrough in PolyJet technology: it combines the perfect aesthetics of inkjet prints with the mechanical strength needed to produce functional prototypes and end-use parts. This could be the turning point where engineers and designers no longer have to choose between form and performance.
ToughONE™ takes PolyJet technology to the next level
The PolyJet process uses droplets of photopolymer resin to be deposited onto a build surface and cured layer by layer using UV light.
The technology is known for its high precision and is ideal for creating models with color, texture and complex geometries. However, when it comes to high-load functional testing, other technologies are typically used – which in turn means increased turnaround time and costs.
The introduction of ToughONE™ eliminates these compromises. It offers superior impact and abrasion resistance, as well as toughness, without sacrificing excellent surface quality, accuracy or dimensional stability. This allows aesthetic and functional prototypes, and even final products, to be produced on the same equipment.
Designed for the J8 series
ToughONE™ is exclusively compatible with the J8 Series: J850™ Prime, J850™ Pro and J826™ models. These systems offer high print volumes, support for Pantone® color matching, and advanced features such as Voxel Print™ and Smart Insert™ via GrabCAD Print Pro™ software.
For existing J3 and J5 Series users, ToughONE™ is a compelling reason to upgrade, while for new entrants, it offers the opportunity to integrate their entire prototyping process on a single platform. This eliminates the need for multiple machines, reduces post-processing and manufacturing risks. Users can benefit from faster iteration, shorter development cycles and faster time to market – all with lower prototyping costs, fewer production delays and greater design confidence. Hinges, snap-in parts or mechanical covers can be produced in a single print.
ToughONE™ and J8 systems are designed to drive smarter, faster and more efficient innovation.
ToughONE™ application areas
ToughONE™ fits perfectly into the PolyJet multi-material manufacturing philosophy. Up to seven different resins can be combined in a single print, allowing prototypes with differentiated mechanical properties, flexible hinges and rigid structural elements to be created within a single part. This allows for the production of functional models that can withstand real-world mechanical loads.
The range of applications is expanding: industrial design, electronics, medical technology, automotive, consumer goods and packaging – the versatility of ToughONE™ is evident in all areas.
The introduction of ToughONE™ is not just a new material in the Stratasys portfolio, but also a strategic step: the PolyJet platform is transformed from a visualization tool into a full-fledged product development solution that can cover all phases from idea to functional prototype to small series production.
By reducing reliance on secondary technologies, Stratasys aims to provide its customers with faster, simpler, and more competitive innovation processes – through a platform that is powerful, versatile, and functionally sound.
Want to learn how ToughONE PolyJet materials are revolutionizing prototyping?
Download our brochure and say goodbye to unnecessary compromises in product design and development!