Solidscape, a manufacturer of 3D printers and materials for lost wax casting and mold making applications, is offering a new model material: plusCAST. Providing greater durability and flexibility, the material will let manufacturers and custom designers produce intricate and lighter models with thinner walls to cut down on the amount of precious metals used.

The company (which was acquired by Stratasys earlier this year) touts the use of its non-toxic thermoplastic materials like plusCAST for investment casting applications in jewelry, dental restorations, consumer goods, medical products, and electronics.

“The market demands production of finished goods using less precious materials,” says Fabio Esposito, vice president of worldwide sales and marketing for Solidscape. “We continue to listen to our customers and the ability to print at 5000 dpi resolution, combined with a higher performing material allows manufacturers to be even more profitable.”