Feb 9, 2017 | By Benedict
BCN3D Technologies, a Barcelona-based manufacturer of open-source 3D printers, has launched a reengineered version of its flagship BCN3D Sigma 3D printer. The Sigma R17 introduces a new cooling system which results in a quieter 3D printing process.
The new Sigma R17 3D printer
The Sigma 3D printer from BCN3D is highly regarded in the maker community, both in Spain and abroad. For starters, it has the major appeal of being open source, and boasts a clever Independent Dual Extruder (IDEX) system that allows for 3D printing with multiple materials, multiple colors, or distinct support materials. At less than $3,000, it is also represents pretty good value for money. Attendees of SOLIDWORKS World 2017 this week got the chance to see the latest version of the Sigma 3D printer in action. BCN3D says it’s the best Sigma yet, with a quieter, smoother operation and improved slicing software.
Thanks to new “smart cooling strategies,” the Sigma R17 is the quietest version of the BCN3D Sigma 3D printer to date. The new fans were selected with noise reduction in mind, but they also guarantee “high dissipation airflow.” The stepper drivers have also been totally revamped, increasing performance and making the printer even quieter. New microchips have been introduced to manage power in a more efficient way.
The new Sigma 3D printer Hotend Family
One of the most important parts of the Sigma 3D printer is its IDEX dual extrusion system, and BCN3D has made improvements to that area too. The company is introducing a “Hotend Family” for the Sigma, sold separately and including up to six different hotends (0.3 mm - 1.0 mm) to be used on either of the two IDEX extruders. BCN3D says the 0.5 mm high-performance hotend is one to look out for, because its carefully engineered steel nozzle enables it to print effectively with abrasive particles or carbon fibers.
“The Sigma R17 allows [users] to combine different hotends to materialize their ideas faster, with a fine quality and beyond any geometric or material constraint, while ensuring a flawless user experience,” commented Roger Uceda, CEO of BCN3D Technologies.
BCN3D has developed a new printing profile generator for the Sigma R17 3D printer
Since the Sigma R17 can be fitted with thousands of hotend combinations between its two extruders, BCN3D has also introduced software improvements which allow users to better take advantage of that versatility. Sigma ProGen is a new web complement that allows users to select the current configuration of hotends and materials loaded on the Sigma, which will create an appropriate Printing Profile for both Cura and Simplify 3D slicing engines.
“3D printing is already changing the way the things are made, and at BCN3D we are proud to be part of this revolution,” Uceda said. “A couple of years ago, we realized there were still some barriers to overcome, like the ability to print complex geometries with support materials. That’s why we developed the Sigma, with its innovative IDEX system, to really empower the designers and professionals.”
Users can print with multiple materials or colors with the Sigma IDEX system
BCN3D began accepting pre-orders for the €2,655 Sigma R17 3D printer on February 8. Printers are expected to ship by February 27.
Posted in 3D Printer
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I have a printer like this never worked well , components are just awful. is not a printer is a scam