Modix, a Tel Aviv-based manufacturer of large-format 3D printers, 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, the add-on modules include a new in-house printhead, a new firmware update, and more.
Shachar Gafni, CEO of Modix, said, “Modix continues its journey to become a market leader by presenting both high-end technology and convenient user experiences. Only three months after we have presented six new important add-ons we are proud to present additional fruits of our dedicated R&D efforts made throughout 2021.“
Modix’s new printhead
Named Griffin, the company’s new printhead comprises a custom extruder developed by Bondtech and an all-new hotend designed by Modix itself. The double drive gear system ensures improved filament grip while the nickel-coated copper heatblock enables faster and more efficient heat transfer. The printhead also comes complete with a new bi-metal heartbreak created by Slice Engineering, extending the melt zone in the device.
Furthermore, the upgraded PT-1000 temperature sensor allows users to print at temperatures of up to 500°C, enabling high-performance filaments such as carbon fiber-reinforced composites.
The new printhead assembly also makes it much easier to replace the nozzle with just one hand. Users even have the option to quick-swap the entire filament melting subsystem thanks to the modularity of the design.
For ease of use, the Griffin printhead also features a new automatic Z offset calibration sequence leveraging a BLTouch probe. Modix claims this is much more precise than the previous manual leveling procedure, resulting in cleaner first layers.
RepRap Firmware Version 3
Modix has also announced the launch of a new firmware for use with its 3D printers – RepRap Firmware Version 3. Developed by Duet, the update comes packed with several smart capabilities to allow users to get the most out of their systems.
New features include conditional g-code macro functionality and a real-time monitoring engine, improving both usability and printer reliability. With RepRap Firmware Version 3, Modix printers can also now react dynamically to situations that occur during calibration and printing. The addition also offers more connectivity options for customers.
Tilt screen, emergency stop button, and a filament mounting shelf
On the hardware side, Modix also announced three new components that users can integrate into their 3D printers. The tilt screen is described as a ‘convenience improvement’, allowing for the touchscreen to be tilted at various angles. This is best used with the firm’s tallest systems, the Modix BIG-Meter and Modix 120Z, to avoid neck strain.
On the other hand, the optional emergency stop button is a big red button that goes on the front of Modix’s 3D printers. When pressed, it forces the printer to stop whatever it’s doing immediately, providing a new level of safety and control over the printing process.
Finally, the new heavy spool mounting shelf is a revamped version of the default part that comes with Modix’s systems. While the original is only capable of holding 5kg spools, the reinforced version is able to hold filament spools up to 8kg in mass.
Further details of the Modix 3D printer add-ons can be found here.
The world of large-format 3D printing
Large-format 3D printing is the area of additive manufacturing that deals with huge parts, with applications in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, maritime, and even prosthetics. Just recently, the University of Maine (UMaine) 3D printed two new large-scale boats at its Advanced Structures and Composites Center in Orono, one of which is reportedly the largest vessel ever to be additively manufactured. Developed for the U.S. Marine Corps, the prototype boats are designed to be logistical support vessels and will be tested for field use by the armed forces.
Elsewhere, Thermwood, a CNC machinery and large-format 3D printer manufacturer, recently gained 32 new patents to protect the technology behind its proprietary additive production systems. Specifically, the patents are said to relate to the firm’s Large-Scale Additive Manufacturing (LSAM) machines, which enable the creation of single-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 aircraft manufacturer Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). As part of a new partnership between the firms, TAI is set to install a custom Sciaky 300″ x 108″ x 132″ build volume 300 Series Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing (EBAM) 3D printer.
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Featured image shows Modix’s new Griffin printhead. Photo via Modix.
