Type of 3D Printer Structure

2021-08-20

3d printing technology has stepped into our life. We can see them in medical, architectural design, scientific research, manufacturing, heritage conservation, accessory parts, food, and other fields.

To give more enthusiasts an in-depth understanding of the structure of the FDM 3d printer. Next, give you a detailed introduction to the different structures and their other operating rules and characteristics.

At present, the commonly used device mechanisms are the I3 structure, CoreXY structure: the Delta structure, the UM structure, and the MB structure, which have become less common.

I3

Structure

It is also called Gantry architecture, and this structure is more classic. It originated from the originator of the FDM 3D printer open-source: RepRap. So it is prevalent among the public. It is one of the most common structures.

Operation

The way it works is that the Y-axis printing is achieved by the back and forth movement of the platform, and the X-axis printing is achieved by the left and right direction of the nozzle driven by the motor. I3the stable movement of its Z-axis characterizes the i3 structure.

With the development of the times more and more i3 machines into the market, but due to its low manufacturing threshold, the cost is low, from time to time, you will see some low-cost, low-quality devices.

Caution

It is recommended to choose parts with high stability, those involved in the printing accuracy of the location try not to use 3D printed features. Such models need to pay attention to the strength of the frame, so generally do not do too big. Large print models will wobble.

CoreXY

Structure

The difference between CoreXY 3D printer structure and MB, UM, and other structures is its transmission method. The most prominent unique feature of CoreXY is that its X and Y motors operate in concert, and its synchronous belt can form a variety of different winding methods under the placement of other synchronous wheels.

Operation

Due to the synergistic movement of two motors, the force driven by the motors is greater than that of a single-engine, and it will reduce the weight of one machine in the XY direction, improving accuracy.

This structure has high printing accuracy, faster speed, and high utilization of assembly space. It is relatively complicated, with high requirements for assembled parts and more points on the number of bearings of synchronous wheels or adapter belts.

Caution

Users who have some experience with 3D printers choose CoreXY machines as an option for their advancement. However, we usually do not recommend novices to purchase such devices as well. If you do need to buy one, we recommend contacting official technical support for assistance with installation.

Delta

Structure

Usually, people call it delta, which can also be called parallel arm structure. This structure was designed in the early days for the development of machines used to grasp objects.

Because of the speed and flexibility of this structure, it was widely used in modern industries such as robots and robotic hands later on. So it is not common in the market at present.

Operation

The small Delta-type machine has a small footprint and a relatively simple structure. Because of its design, the height of the printed model and the machine’s drive response speed will also be an advantage.

The downside is the difficulty of calibrating the platform. 3D printing is permanently warped or side high side low feeling. Yes, this is his unique calculation principle. Interested can go to the network to search for its principle and then calculate the parameters of the hardware-software to see if the problem can be solved after modification.

UM

The structure is mainly reflected in the print head above, using a cross structure, extrusion motor is not in the nozzle end, can effectively reduce the weight of the 3D print head, can enhance the use of internal space, the two optical axes fixed so that the speed and accuracy of printing are relatively stable.

This structure is due to the double optical axis, so replacing some accessories is more trouble. Assembly is relatively tricky.

MB

The structure is mainly reflected in the extrusion motor is generally installed next to the nozzle, proximity filament feeding, dual optical axis carrying extrusion components, X-direction movement is usually driven by the synchronous motor belt, through the belt drive to make both sides together.

Operation

Such a structure in the filament feeding and 3D printing stability are relative can, but due to the X-axis synchronous belt drive, will limit to the 3D printer printing speed, printing speed is too fast then there is a chance to cause loss of step.

Caution

And the motor in the extrusion structure will increase the weight of the components. The replacement of supplies and maintenance operations should pay attention to avoiding the two optical axis deformation under pressure.

We all want to have a perfect machine, but as far as the current technology is concerned, you can have, but you need to pay a high price for this. It is recommended to choose the right FDM 3D printer for you from a practical point of view. I recommend TRONXY’s I3 structure and CoreXY structure, and both are good choices.