US distributor DesignBox3D applies a specific selection process for the 3D printers they choose to represent, which sees them test machines rigorously before selling them in the United States. So, while they US products like the Series 1 from Type A Machines, the company has actually brought a number of 3D printers in from other countries that may not have otherwise found exposure in the US. These include the a few established Polish brands, like Zmorph and 3D Gence, as well as Mass Portal from Latvia, all of which have gained reputations in their home countries. The latest manufacturer, BCN3D, that DesignBox3D is taking Stateside hails from Spain and, from what I’ve read in online 3D printing forums recently, their Sigma 3D Printer is a pretty capable machine.
What’s most unique about the BCN3D Sigma is its IDEX (independent dual extrusion) system, which allows the printer to combine different materials, colors, and properties within the same part. Naturally, this also lends itself to the use of soluble supports for creating complex geometries. Other features include a 480 x 320 pixels, full-color LCD touchscreen, a heated bed, and a print volume of 210mm x 297mm x 210mm. The extruder can reach up to 290°C, allowing for the use of a wide range of materials, and the system can achieve layer thicknesses of about 50 microns.
After discussions in 2015, DesignBox3D is now representing BCN3D as a distributor in the US, which will see them initially offer the Sigma before also offering the IGNIS laser cutter, the LUX SLA 3D printer, and more. Preet Jesrani, President of DesignBox3D, says of the agreement, “Having met with Roger Uceda (CEO, BCN3D), Felip Fenollosa (Fundacio CIM) and the entire team of BCN3D Technologies with its focus on R&D and a culture of excellence, we are very excited about this partnership and expect it to be a very successful cooperation to continue with our tradition of only bringing forward the best that the market has to offer.”
Roger Uceda, CEO of BCN3D Technologies, adds, “We have been working really hard in order to bring our BCN3D Sigma to the US. We are excited for all those new users who are willing to work with one of the most revolutionary and exotic printers in the market. We needed a trustful partner to spread our project and help the final user to understand the real potential of the BCN3D Sigma. DesignBox3D is the ideal partner for this adventure and we are glad to finally locate BCN3D to the US.”
The first Sigma units will hit US markets in May, as the partners announce their reseller network. I’m being honest when I say that I’ve read good things about the Sigma online, so I’m excited to see how things shape up for BCN3D in the United States. The fact that BCN3D is open source makes me even happier for this new collaboration.
