Modixa Tel Aviv-based large-format 3D printer manufacturer, has announced the launch of several new add-ons for use with its systems.
Designed to bolster the performance and usability of its entire line of FFF 3D printers, add-ons include a new internal printhead, new firmware update, and more.
Shachar Gafni, CEO of Modix, said, “Modix continues its journey to become a market leader by presenting both premium technology and convenient user experiences. Only three months after introducing six significant new add-ons, we are proud to present the additional fruits of our dedicated R&D efforts deployed throughout 2021.“
Modix’s new printhead
Dubbed Griffin, the company’s new printhead features a custom extruder developed by bondtech and a brand new hotend designed by Modix itself. The dual-drive gear system provides better filament grip while the nickel-coated copper heat block allows for faster and more efficient heat transfer. The printhead also comes with a new bi-metal core created by Slice Engineeringextending the fusion zone into the device.
Additionally, the improved PT-1000 temperature sensor allows users to print at temperatures up to 500°C, enabling high performance filaments such as carbon fiber reinforced composites.
The new printhead assembly also makes it easier to replace the nozzle with one hand. Users even have the ability to quickly replace the entire filament fusing subsystem due to the modularity of the design.
For ease of use, the Griffin printhead also features a new automatic Z offset calibration sequence using a BLTouch probe. Modix claims this is much more accurate than the previous manual leveling procedure, resulting in cleaner first coats.
RepRap firmware version 3
Modix has also announced the release of new firmware for use with its 3D printers – RepRap Firmware Version 3. Developed by Duet, the update comes with several smart features to help users get the most out of their systems.
New features include conditional g-code macro functionality and a real-time monitoring engine, improving both the usability and reliability of the printer. With RepRap firmware version 3, Modix printers can also react dynamically to situations that occur during calibration and printing. The addition also provides more connectivity options for customers.
Tilting screen, emergency stop button and filament mounting shelf
On the hardware side, Modix also announced three new components that users can integrate into their 3D printers. The tilting screen is described as a “convenience enhancement”, allowing the touchscreen to be tilted to different angles. Best used with the company’s tallest systems, the Modix BIG-Meter and Modix 120Z, to avoid neck pain.
On the other hand, the optional emergency stop button is a big red button that sits on the front of Modix 3D printers. When pressed, it forces the printer to immediately stop whatever it is doing, providing a new level of security and control over the printing process.
Finally, the new heavy coil mounting shelf is a revamped version of the default part that comes with Modix systems. While the original can only hold 5kg spools, the reinforced version is capable of holding filament spools up to 8kg in mass.
You can find more details about Modix 3D printer add-ons here.
The world of large format 3D printing
Large format 3D printing is the field of additive manufacturing that deals with large parts, with applications in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, maritime and even prosthetics. Just recently, the University of Maine (UMaine) has 3D printed two new large-scale boats at its Advanced Structures and Composites Center in Orono, one of which is said to be the largest vessel ever additively manufactured. Developed for the United States Marine Corpsthe prototype boats are designed to be logistics support vessels and will be tested for field use by the armed forces.
Elsewhere, Thermwood, a manufacturer of CNC machines and large format 3D printers, recently obtained 32 new patents to protect the technology behind its proprietary additive production systems. Specifically, the patents would relate to the company’s large-scale additive manufacturing (LSAM) machines, which enable the creation of one-piece parts up to ten feet tall.
Metal 3D printing specialist sciaky also recently revealed plans to ship the “world’s largest” electron beam DED system to the aircraft manufacturer Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). In a new partnership between the companies, TAI is set to install a 300″ x 108″ x 132″ custom Sciaky 3D printer for Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing (EBAM) 300 Series.
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The image shown shows the new Griffin printhead from Modix. Photo via Modix.
