? Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive buying guide for industrial 3D printers! If you’re in the market for a high-quality and efficient 3D printer for your industrial needs, you’ve come to the right place. With rapid advancements in technology, industrial 3D printers have revolutionized manufacturing processes, enabling businesses to create complex and intricate designs with ease. In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when purchasing an industrial 3D printer, including print quality, build volume, material compatibility, and reliability. Whether you’re a small business or a large-scale manufacturer, our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and insights to make an informed decision.
? Our Top 5
- [Most Advanced 3-in-1 3D Printer]: Snapmaker Artisan 3D printer features Dual Extrusion 3D Printing, 10W Laser Engraving & Cutting, 200W CNC Carving. With three functions fully enhanced, Artisan can help you realize different advanced projects and truly turn your desktop into a workshop.
- [Large Work Area]: The 400mm × 400mm × 400mm large work area allows you to create big or multiple objects.
- [Well-built Hardware]: We introduce industrial-grade transmission technology to desktop fabrication—steel guiderails made by CNC grinding at micron level. This leads to a significant raise in precision, rigidity and durability. Quick-swap Toolheads & Platforms let you shift between 3 functions in 1 minute. Artisan also comes with an upgraded one-piece die-cast base plate in a larger size. It’s as steady as a rock even during high-speed CNC machining.
- [Laser Class 1 Safety]: The included laser-proof and dust-proof Enclosure ensures laser class 1 safety for you and your family.
- [Easy-to-use]: Artisan large 3D printer is equipped with a 7" Touchscreen, providing you a broader vision and a smoother workflow. Our Free 3-in-1 Software provides concise and easy-to-follow configuration workflow of 3D printing, and laser and CNC machining. You can excel in 3 fabrication methods with 1 software.
- Remarkable Print Speed. The Creality Sermoon D3 3D printer boasts high performance thanks to its impressive build speed that exceeds regular FDM printers up to 5 times.
- Industrial-Grade Heating Capacity. Thanks to the printer’s powerful extruder, evenly heated bed, and fully enclosed chamber, the users can work with a number of engineering materials to make their projects more diverse with regular, flexible, high-strength, and wear-resistant filaments.
- Intuitive Use. The developer’s proprietary programs, such as Creality Print and Creality Cloud, feature advanced practicality and ease of use. They cover all the essential aspects of 3D printing. From one-click model slicing and auto-leveling to model preview and remote control, Creality software ensures a smooth and user-friendly experience.
- Compatible with Popular Software. Apart from the company’s proprietary applications, the Sermoon D3 also supports such well-known slicers as Cura and Simplify3D, so you can freely use any of these programs to prepare 3D models for printing.
- Quality-of-Life Features. To make use of the Sermoon D3 as pleasant and streamlined as possible, Creality added a set of thoughtful functions, including CR Touch auto leveling, power loss recovery, filament runout sensor, built-in HEPA filters, and more.
- Premium E3D Hot end with 360 cooling.
- Belt driven Z-axis for fast cycle times and elimination of Z wobble.
- X/Y/Z Backlash Compensation* for 3D printed part accuracy.
- Lightweight tool head design for faster, better looking prints
- Pre-configured material profiles created by expert in-house technicians.
- 【Fully Upgrades X-Plus3】 A revolutionary FFF/FDM big 3d printer designed for commercial use.Featuring Klipper firmware and CoreXY structure, it reduces printing time by up to 80%(600mm/s print speed and 20000mm/s² acceleration).Meanwhile our software and firmware are fully open source for fast 3d printer enthusiasts&geeks.
- 【Multi-Material Printing】X Plus3 has two sets of nozzle with different characteristics (copper alloy and hardened steel hot end)and direct drive extruder.The QIDI High Performance Materials is able to high-speed print in X Plus3, easy warpless print ABS/ASA/PETG/PA/PC/GF/CF/PLA filament, variety of printing filaments meet the needs of different users.
- 【Independent Chamber Heating System】Heat chamber to 60℃ in 25 minutes, and the internal structure and hardware is made to resist high temp, equipped drying box,while we specially R&D the hyper-speed ABS Rapido/PETG-Tough/ABS-GF25 filament. X plus3 is easy warpless to print High Performance Materials whitout layer separation.
- 【Faster and more accurate】Rebuild a new hotend cooling system, fast 3d printer with a gear ratio of 9.5:1 and 3x extrusion flow. The lightweight design of the Print Head&All metal frame, quality model free of ringing, Pressure advance and auto leveling for excellent resolution, 64bit Processor, Cortex-A53，Main frequency 1.5GHz, equipped with 8G-EMMC and 1G DDR3.
- 【R QIDI TECHNOLOGY Service】R QIDI TECHNOLOGY are committed to making reliable 3d printers.X-Plus3 is suitable for professional users as well as novice users.Not assembly,out of the box. It is easy to print according to the operating instructions.The highly praised after-sale service of R QIDI TECHNOLOGY is the most trustworthy.1 year warranty.
![[2024 Upgrade] Revopoint MINI 2 3D Scanner for 3D Printing Handheld, 3D Printer Scanner with Up to 0.02mm Precision, Industrial Blue Light, Full Color Model Scan for Dental, Small Objects, Advanced](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/313qGzDLXiL._SL160_.jpg)
- [Scanning Tips] Due to MINI 2's blue light technology, scanning results may vary based on the material and color of the scanned object. We recommend using scanning spray as an aid during scanning for improved results.
- [Next-Gen Precision & Fast Scanning Speeds] Effortlessly capture tiny intricate details using the Revopoint MINI 2 3D scanner's industrial-grade blue light technology powering a single-frame precision of up to 0.02 mm at fast capture speeds of up to 16 fps.
- [Industrial Class 1 Blue Light] MINI 2's industrial-grade ultra-high resolution blue light technology's narrower wavelength enables better filtering of interference from ambient light for better precision, accuracy, and higher-quality 3D models. Class 1 blue light is 100% skin-safe, but you may feel minor discomfort if it shines directly into your eyes.
- [Better Scanning Results] The MINI 2 offers a larger single capture range of up to 168 x 132 mm for improved tracking and scanning of larger objects. Additionally, the RGB camera's bigger aperture and Flash LEDs enhance the capture of intricate texture and color details. The 6 Flash LEDs also improve marker recognition for smoother, featureless object scanning.
- [Easier Operation] MINI 2’s IMU removes faulty frames caused by fast movement or shaky hands and improves tracking. Easily start scans and adjust the exposure using MINI 2's three new tactile buttons.
? How to choose?
1. Technology
When choosing an industrial 3D printer, it is crucial to consider the technology it utilizes. There are several different types of 3D printing technologies available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The most common technologies include Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), and Digital Light Processing (DLP).
FDM printers, for example, are known for their affordability and ease of use. They work by melting and extruding a filament to create objects layer by layer. On the other hand, SLA printers use a laser to cure liquid resin, producing highly detailed and accurate prints. SLS printers, on the other hand, use a laser to sinter powdered material, allowing for the creation of strong and durable parts. Finally, DLP printers use a projector to cure resin, resulting in fast and precise printing.
When deciding on the technology, consider the specific requirements of your projects. If you require high precision and detail, SLA or DLP printers may be the best choice. If strength and durability are essential, SLS printers might be more appropriate. If you are on a budget or require simple prototypes, FDM printers can be a great option.
2. Build Volume
The build volume refers to the maximum size of the objects that a 3D printer can produce. It is an important factor to consider, as it determines the size limitations of your prints. Different industrial 3D printers offer varying build volumes, so it is crucial to choose one that suits your specific needs.
For example, if you are in the automotive industry and need to print large prototypes, a printer with a small build volume would not be suitable. Conversely, if you primarily require small, intricate parts, a printer with a large build volume may not be necessary.
Consider the dimensions of the objects you intend to print and choose a printer that can accommodate those sizes. Remember, it is always better to have a slightly larger build volume than you currently require, as it allows for future scalability and flexibility.
3. Material Compatibility
Another crucial factor to consider when choosing an industrial 3D printer is its material compatibility. Different printers are compatible with different materials, and this can significantly impact the range of applications and industries they are suitable for.
For example, if you work in the aerospace industry and require heat-resistant and lightweight parts, you may need a printer that can handle materials such as nylon or carbon fiber. On the other hand, if you are in the medical field and need biocompatible materials, you would need a printer capable of printing with medical-grade resins.
Ensure that the printer you choose is compatible with the materials you require for your projects. Additionally, consider the availability and cost of these materials, as some may be more expensive or harder to source than others.
4. Speed and Accuracy
The speed and accuracy of a 3D printer are crucial factors to consider, especially in an industrial setting where time and precision are of the essence. Different printers have different printing speeds and levels of accuracy, so it is important to evaluate these specifications before making a decision.
For example, if you are in the automotive industry and need to produce large quantities of parts quickly, a printer with a high printing speed would be beneficial. On the other hand, if you require highly detailed and precise prints, a printer with a high level of accuracy would be more appropriate.
Consider the specific requirements of your projects and choose a printer that can meet those requirements in terms of both speed and accuracy. Keep in mind that faster printing speeds may result in decreased accuracy, so strike a balance that aligns with your priorities.
5. Cost and Support
Lastly, it is essential to consider the cost of the industrial 3D printer and the support provided by the manufacturer. The cost of a printer includes not only the initial purchase price but also ongoing expenses such as material costs and maintenance.
Additionally, it is crucial to choose a printer from a reputable manufacturer that offers reliable customer support and regular software updates. This ensures that any issues or questions you may have can be addressed promptly, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
Consider your budget and the long-term costs associated with the printer, as well as the reputation of the manufacturer and their commitment to customer satisfaction.
In conclusion, when choosing an industrial 3D printer, consider the technology, build volume, material compatibility, speed and accuracy, and cost and support. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a printer that aligns with your specific requirements and maximizes the potential of your projects. Remember, choosing the right printer is an investment in your business’s success.
? What to Look for in a industrial 3d printers?
1. Print Quality
When considering an industrial 3D printer, print quality is a crucial factor to evaluate. The level of detail and precision in the printed objects can vary greatly between different printers. Look for a printer that can produce high-resolution prints with smooth surfaces and intricate details. A printer with a high resolution capability, such as one that can print at a resolution of 50 microns or less, will ensure that your printed objects are of the highest quality.
For example, the Formlabs Form 3 is known for its exceptional print quality. It utilizes a process called Low Force Stereolithography (LFS), which produces prints with incredible detail and accuracy. This printer is capable of printing at a resolution of 25 microns, resulting in smooth surfaces and fine details.
2. Build Volume
The build volume of an industrial 3D printer refers to the maximum size of the objects it can print. Consider the size of the objects you plan to print and ensure that the printer you choose has a large enough build volume to accommodate your needs. A larger build volume allows for the printing of larger objects or multiple objects simultaneously, increasing efficiency and productivity.
For instance, the Ultimaker S5 has an impressive build volume of 330 x 240 x 300 mm, making it suitable for printing larger objects or multiple smaller objects in a single print. This allows for faster production and reduces the need for multiple print runs.
3. Material Compatibility
Another important aspect to consider when selecting an industrial 3D printer is its material compatibility. Different printers have different capabilities when it comes to the types of materials they can print with. Some printers are limited to specific materials, while others offer a wide range of options.
Ensure that the printer you choose is compatible with the materials you intend to use. Whether you need to print with standard thermoplastics like ABS or PLA, or more advanced materials such as carbon fiber reinforced polymers or metal composites, make sure the printer can handle them.
For example, the Markforged Mark Two is known for its ability to print with a variety of materials, including carbon fiber, fiberglass, and Kevlar. This printer is ideal for applications that require strong, durable parts.
In conclusion, when searching for an industrial 3D printer, it is essential to consider print quality, build volume, and material compatibility. These factors will determine the capabilities and versatility of the printer, ensuring that it meets your specific needs and requirements. By carefully evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision and choose a printer that will deliver exceptional results for your industrial 3D printing projects.
? How we picked?
1. Researching the Market
When it comes to purchasing an industrial 3D printer, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research to ensure that you make an informed decision. With the rapidly evolving technology and numerous options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
To start the process, we delved deep into the market, analyzing various brands, models, and their specifications. We paid close attention to customer reviews, industry reports, and expert opinions to gain insights into the performance, reliability, and durability of each printer. This step allowed us to narrow down our options and focus on the most promising ones.
2. Evaluating Key Features
Once we had a list of potential industrial 3D printers, we meticulously evaluated their key features to determine which ones offered the best value for money.
One crucial aspect we considered was the build volume, as it directly impacts the size and complexity of objects that can be printed. We also examined the printing speed, as faster printers can significantly increase productivity. Moreover, we scrutinized the resolution and print quality to ensure that the printer could deliver precise and detailed prints. Additionally, we assessed the compatibility with different materials, such as plastics, metals, and composites, as this versatility is essential for various industrial applications.
3. Comparing Cost and Support
Cost is always a significant factor when making any purchase, and industrial 3D printers are no exception. However, it’s important to strike a balance between the initial investment and the long-term benefits.
We compared the prices of each printer, taking into account their features, reliability, and customer support. While some printers may have a higher upfront cost, they may offer better support, warranty, and spare parts availability, ultimately reducing maintenance expenses in the long run. We also reached out to manufacturers and evaluated their responsiveness and expertise in addressing customer queries and technical issues.
By conducting thorough market research, evaluating key features, and comparing costs and support, we were able to select the most suitable industrial 3D printers for our buying guide. Our aim is to provide you with the necessary information and insights to make a well-informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and budget. So, let’s dive into the world of industrial 3D printers and unlock the endless possibilities they offer.
? Frequently asked questions about industrial 3d printers
1. What is an industrial 3D printer and why do I need one?
An industrial 3D printer is a powerful machine that uses advanced technology to create three-dimensional objects from digital files. Unlike consumer-grade 3D printers, industrial models are designed for heavy-duty use, high precision, and larger-scale production. These printers are commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing.
If you are involved in any of these industries, investing in an industrial 3D printer can revolutionize your production process. It allows you to quickly prototype new designs, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. For example, in the automotive industry, industrial 3D printers are used to create complex parts with intricate geometries, reducing the need for assembly and minimizing weight.
2. What factors should I consider when buying an industrial 3D printer?
When purchasing an industrial 3D printer, several factors should be considered:
– Print volume: **The size of the objects you plan to print** is crucial. Ensure the printer has a large enough build volume to accommodate your needs. For example, if you intend to print large-scale prototypes or production parts, a printer with a small build volume will limit your capabilities.
– Material compatibility: **Make sure the printer supports the materials you require**. Different printers are compatible with various materials, including plastics, metals, ceramics, and composites. Consider the properties and specifications of the materials you need for your applications.
– Precision and resolution: **Look for printers with high precision and resolution**. These factors determine the level of detail and accuracy in your prints. For industries that require intricate designs or fine details, such as jewelry or dental, a printer with high precision is essential.
– Speed and throughput: **Consider the printing speed and throughput** of the printer. Depending on your production needs, you may require a printer that can produce parts quickly and efficiently. However, keep in mind that faster printing speeds may sacrifice some level of detail or accuracy.
– Support and service: **Ensure the manufacturer offers reliable support and service**. Industrial 3D printers are complex machines, and having access to technical assistance and spare parts is crucial to minimize downtime and keep your production running smoothly.
In conclusion, investing in an industrial 3D printer can greatly benefit industries that require high precision, large-scale production, and complex designs. By considering factors such as print volume, material compatibility, precision, speed, and support, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect printer for your specific needs.
Last update on 2024-05-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API