What are the differences between P3 and CLIP 3D printing technology?

As P3 and CLIP 3D printing continues to evolve and revolutionize the manufacturing space, the demand for more advanced technologies that provide quality and efficiency is growing. Stratasys, a leader in polymer additive manufacturing, offers the Origin One, a transformative 3D printer enabling production of end-use parts in a growing range of high-performance materials.

Stratasys and the Origin One can do this using P3™ Programmable Photopolymerization technology. A competitor to P3™ is CLIP (Continuous Liquid Interface Production) technology. In today’s blog, we will compare these two technologies.

What is P3?

The Stratasys Origin One is a manufacturing-grade 3D printer designed to enable mass production of end-use parts. Utilizing Programmable PhotoPolymerization (P3) technology, it achieves industry-leading accuracy, consistency, and throughput. The Origin One’s P3 technology is an evolution of DLP (Digital Light Processing). It’s a ballet of light, temperature, pulling forces, and pneumatics to deliver the user a part with injection mold quality. If you want to learn more about P3 technology and the Origin one take a look at our blog article: A Closer Look at the Origin One 3D Printer.

What is CLIP 3D printing?

Continuous liquid interface production or CLIP is a 3D printing method patented by Carbon3D. It is a method that falls under the umbrella of vat polymerization, similar to DLP (digital light processing). CLIP is different from traditional DLP because it is a continuous process that builds parts without discrete steps. The magic sauce is CLIP’s oxygen-permeable membrane that creates a dead zone under the part, also known as a persistent liquid interface. This allows for continuous curing as the part is pulled out of the resin vat.

Technology Strengths

The Stratasys Origin One 3D printer and CLIP technology both bring unique strengths to the world of additive manufacturing. The Origin One excels in high-accuracy mass production and offers a diverse range of material options, especially when paired with an Open AM License. On the other hand, CLIP technology offers fast print speeds with its unique oxygen permeable membrane and is well-suited for rapid prototyping and select industries.

Conclusion for P3 vs CLIP 3D printing

The Stratasys Origin One 3D printer with P3 technology and CLIP 3D printing technology both bring unique strengths to the world of additive manufacturing. The Origin One excels in high-accuracy mass production and offers a diverse range of validated material and even more materials with an Open AM License. On the other hand, CLIP technology offers fast print speeds but long thermal curing and select material options from the OEM. The choice between the two systems ultimately depends on the specific requirements and goals of the user.

If you want to discuss your 3D printing goals, contact one of our experts today.