US technology startup CLEANR has advanced the development of its solutions for washing machine manufacturers by gaining early access to the Formlabs Automation Ecosystem, enabling new levels of 3D printing productivity.
In a press release, the company said the 3D printing platform will enable the introduction of its new microplastic-filtering solutions as well as collaboration with appliance manufacturers to integrate the technology into their washing machine designs.
Currently, multiple governments are creating and passing legislation that would force manufacturers to equip new household washing machines with microplastic-filtering mechanisms to reduce the flow of dangerous microplastics into waterways, ecosystems, and food chains.
Beginning in January 2025, all new washing machines sold in France will be required to have a microplastic-filtration solution.
Meanwhile, members of the UK parliament, state legislators in California and Oregon in the United States, and province legislators in Ottawa, Canada are considering similar measures, with other governments around the world following suit.
“3D printing technology plays a pivotal role in how we’re helping washing machine manufacturers address complex microplastic-filtering specifications, testing standards, space constraints, and cost challenges as they move quickly to address new regulations,” said Chip Miller, co-founder and chief operating officer of CLEANR.
Miller added that Formlabs technology allows them to create high-quality prototypes in hours or days, rather than weeks or months.
Along with customising CLEANR filtering solutions for manufacturers, CLEANR said it also uses Formlabs technology to create new features and complementary products for its platform filtration technology.
“Technology innovation is crucial in the race to eliminate microplastics from our oceans, food supplies and drinking water,” said CLEANR co-founder and chief technology officer David Dillman.
Thanks to early access to Formlabs’ 3D printing capabilities, Dillman said the startup will be able to preserve its position in microplastics filtration and speed up its expansion into residential water filters, dishwashers, dryers, industrial laundry, and other areas.
