As the company's next-generation 3D printers, BigRep PRO and BigRep EDGE are compatible with high-performance materials and provide print quality that makes them suitable for manufacturing functional prototypes, composite tool parts and even end-use parts produced in small batches. The company said the new 3D printer will be used in the automotive, aerospace, consumer goods and manufacturing sectors.
Both 3D printers are based on BigRep's MXT technology (representing metering extrusion technology) and are equipped with Bosch Rexroth motion systems to provide high print speed, accuracy and quality. In addition, the new machines have IoT connectivity so users can easily integrate them into smart factories.
Dr. Stephan Beyer, CEO of BigRep, said: "This new technology provides the type of innovation the industry has been waiting for, as our breakthrough MXT system enables our new printers to be five times faster-both precision and quality The output speed is higher. "" This is a huge leap in additive manufacturing, enabling BigRep customers to take full advantage of today's most advanced large-scale 3D printing technology. "
BigRep PRO
It is understood that BigRep Pro is now available for order and was developed specifically for the production of large industrial parts. This large machine has a build size of one cubic meter and includes a temperature-controlled spool chamber. This function allows continuous printing using high-performance materials such as ASA, ABS, nylon.
The structure of the 3D printer also integrates a closed, insulated metal frame that provides a constant temperature throughout the printing process. Despite being closed, users can still view their prints thanks to the printer's clear glass door. Other notable features of 3D printers include a heated print bed with polyamide foil for better adhesion, and an inductive sensor for semi-automatic bed leveling.
BigRep EDGE
According to the official description, BigRep EDGE will be released in the second quarter of 2019. BigRep EDGE has many of the same advantages as BigRep PRO, but it is slightly more complicated. EDGE has a build volume of 1500 x 800 x 600 mm, and a heated build room (the temperature in the print room is controlled up to 200 ° C, and the temperature in the print bed is controlled at 220 ° C).
BigRep EDGE also integrates an advanced user experience, an automatic upward moving door and a user-friendly operator interface with full control over settings.
MXT extrusion technology
BigRep's patented MXT technology does distinguish these two new 3D printers from other large printers on the market. BigRep explains that this technology clearly distinguishes between wire feed and melt extrusion and melt extrusion. This enables users to gain greater benefits by fully controlling the extrusion speed and the amount of material being extruded. The development of the new technology also takes into account the partnership between BigRep and BASF and will be compatible with materials developed in the future.
Both BigRep PRO and EDGE are equipped with two MXT modular extrusion heads that provide print speeds> 600 mm / s (for PROs with 0.6 mm nozzles) and up to 1,000 mm / s (for EDGE). It is understood that these speeds are five times faster than competitors' FFF 3D printers.
In addition, BigRep pointed out that compared with other FFF technologies, the MXT extruder can also increase the wire output at the maximum extrusion rate by 5 times and the average extrusion rate by 3 times.
CNC control
Finally, BigRep highlights another element in its two 3D printers, which sets them apart, and this has been integrated with Bosch Rexroth. Through cooperation, BigRep successfully integrated Bosch Rexroth's most advanced CNC control system into its 3D printer for the first time.
"With professional control system technology, 3D printing is becoming an industrial manufacturing application," commented Thomas Fechner, general manager of the new business unit of Bosch Rexroth. "In terms of hardware, Bosch Rexroth's CNC control system provides the necessary performance, accuracy and durability. In our development partnership with BigRep, we are advancing the potential of 3D printing in future factory environments."
BigRep showcased BigRep PRO and EDGE 3D printers at its booth at Formnext (Hall 3.1, Booth E-20).