We've previously introduced the impact of different types of 3D printing support filaments on printing results (further reading: Support Effectiveness Comparison: Which Method is Right for You?). But what are the differences when using an Ultimaker industrial-grade 3D printer versus a hobbyist-grade Prusa I3 MK3S 3D printer? Today, we'll show you a real-world test using internal drill components!
(Contestant #1: Original Prusa i3 MK3S 3D Printer, Contestant #2: Ultimaker 3D Printer)
This time, we mainly used the Original Prusa i3 MK3S single-extruder 3D printer and the Ultimaker dual-extruder 3D printer, employing different methods to print the part's body and support structures. At first glance, there might not seem to be any difference.
Contestant #1 uses the Prusa i3 MK3S 3D printer. Unlike the Ultimaker 3D printer, which uses a Bowden tube to feed filament, the Prusa i3 MK3S 3D printer uses direct drive (What is direct drive?). The print head itself has a feeder, so the filament is directly pushed into the heated nozzle, making filament changes relatively simple. However, because the print head and the drive motor are integrated, the print head must bear the weight and vibration of the feeder during printing.
The support structure density of a 3D printer is lower than that of the main body, and the structure is looser. This allows for easy removal from the part while maintaining both the precision and texture of the finished product.
The Ultimaker dual-extruder 3D printer, on the other hand, can use two types of filament simultaneously. Our second contestant uses water-soluble PVA filament to print the support structure, synchronously printing the part body and support. After completion, simply immerse the entire part in cold water for easy dissolution, resulting in a very smooth part surface.
The drill part has a spiral structure with a diameter of 2.5 cm and many holes for joining. Both contestants, produced by the Prusa i3 MK3S 3D printer and the Ultimaker printer, achieved high accuracy, but there were still slight differences in the details.
The industrial-grade Ultimaker 3D printer features dual extruders, allowing it to print with two types of filament and colors simultaneously. The finished product boasts high surface accuracy and opens up more possibilities for 3D printing. Although the professional-grade Prusa i3 MK3S 3D printer is slightly less precise than the Ultimaker 3D printer, it still performs exceptionally well for a machine under fifty thousand.
For fairness, both 3D printers used eSUN PLA filament. There is no good or bad 3D printer; choosing the one that meets your needs will achieve the highest efficiency in production! Did you enjoy this real-world test? Which printer's results did you prefer? Visit our store now to learn more about different types of 3D printers and detailed information. We also offer high-quality 3D printing services.
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