The new Fuse 1 device is a selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printer, a system used predominantly by engineers and large manufacturers for its ability to print strong, functional prototypes and end-use parts. Historically, SLS is known for high costs and difficult workflows, but Formlabs said its complete end-to-end SLS printing system takes the guesswork and challenges out of the printing process while also minimizing costs. To make the Fuse 1 device more accessible in the market, Formlabs said it came up with a number of engineering workarounds to the traditional SLS printing process, such as its patent-pending Surface Armor technology and an improved material refresh rate.