Markforged Introduces Onyx GF for Color-Coded Factory Floor Tools

Markforged, a US-based FDM 3D printer manufacturer, has unveiled Onyx GF, a new material designed to bring functional color directly into its established Onyx material line. This chopped glass fiber-filled nylon is available in six distinct colors: red, yellow, blue, green, gray, and white. The material is specifically targeted at manufacturers who utilize color-coding for tooling and fixtures to improve error-proofing, signal hazards, and differentiate production lines on the factory floor.

Traditionally, achieving color on 3D printed parts for these purposes has involved post-processing steps like painting or applying labels. Alternatively, manufacturers could opt for materials like ABS or PLA, which offer a wider color palette but come with reduced mechanical performance compared to engineering-grade materials. Jon Bond, General Manager of Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) at Markforged, highlighted that the integration of color is not merely for aesthetics but aims to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and error prevention for their clientele.

Onyx GF embeds color directly into the material's formulation, thus eliminating the need for secondary processing steps. Parts printed with Onyx GF are stated to retain the same tensile strength, stiffness, surface finish, and dimensional accuracy characteristic of the standard Onyx material. Furthermore, its non-conductive properties broaden its application scope, making it suitable for scenarios requiring electrical isolation.

The material is positioned for various industries with specific color-management needs. In aerospace and automotive sectors, particularly those implementing Foreign Object Debris (FOD) prevention programs, high-contrast tooling can aid in the detection of misplaced components. For food and beverage or pharmaceutical production, color-coded fixtures can support zone segregation protocols designed to prevent cross-contamination. In general workplace safety, red and yellow parts can serve as supplementary visual cues near hazardous machinery or robotic work cells.

For applications demanding superior structural integrity, Onyx GF is compatible with Markforged's Continuous Fiber Reinforcement (CFR) process. This allows for the reinforcement of parts with continuous carbon fiber, potentially achieving strengths comparable to aluminum. The material is designed for integration with Markforged's FX-series industrial printing platforms without requiring workflow reconfiguration.