The latest beta version of Ultimaker’s free, open source, slicing software was recently unveiled at the company’s Spring Showcase.

The enhanced slicing engine is said to set a new threshold for finer and faster three-dimensional (3D) prints for applications in design, architecture, engineering and metal 3D printing. The newly developed variable line width capability of the slicing engine improves its ability to print thin walls and fine details.

"Ultimaker Cura 5.0 represents the biggest leap forward in print quality that the software has ever seen. This is the start of a true revolution in 3D printing technology," says  Ultimaker chief technology officer Miguel Calvo. 

Improvements to Ultimaker Cura 5.0 include:

• Thinner walls and finer details: The new slicing engine allows for the use of variable line width when slicing a 3D model to most accurately print fine details.
• Stronger parts: The variable line width capabilities of the new slicing engine results in fewer gaps on the inside of printed parts, making them more solid and stronger. The improved printing of thin walls brings parts printed with the Ultimaker Cura 5.0 closer to the strength of those produced using injection moulding. 
• Faster print profiles: Print profiles available to users of Ultimaker printers have been updated to make use of the improved capabilities of Ultimaker Cura 5.0 resulting in print time reductions of up to 20%. 
• New applications: A number of new applications are enabled by the newest version of Ultimaker Cura 5.0. 

"We believe that even those who have looked at 3D printing before and concluded that it may not be ready for their use, today it is time for them to look again. Until now, you had to make your design work for 3D printing. It's time to turn the table... from designing for 3D printing, to 3D printing for design,” added Calvo.