What is a Dual Extruder 3D Printer? The Possibilities and Limitations
Within the last couple of years, 3D printing has grown exponentially, now having applications in various industries, including health, automobile, and fashion. One of the most exciting emerging developments is the dual extruder 3D printer. In this blog, we shall explain the dual extruder 3D printer, its advantages, and its limitations to determine whether or not it is apt for your multicolor 3D printing needs.
In this article:
- How Dual Extruder Printers Work
- Possibilities of Dual Extruder 3D Printing
- Limitations of Dual Extruder 3D Printing
- A Comparison: Single Extruder vs. Dual Extruder 3D Printer
How Dual Extruder Printers Work
You may wonder what is a 3d printer extruder and what does the extruder do in a 3d printer. A dual filament 3D printer has two extruders, or “heads,” that can simultaneously print with two different filaments. This differs from a single extruder-based 3D printer, which uses only one filament for all the prints. Multiple extruders significantly expand the number of creative and more complex prints, such as printing with various colors or materials in one object.
There are two major kinds of dual extrusion 3D printing setups:
- In the independent dual extruder or the IDEX 3D printer, every extruder can move independently, giving much more flexibility in use and faster printing speed.
- Single-head dual-nozzle setups are attached to the same print head, moving as one and synchronously.
Different scenarios should be considered when choosing the correct model for dual extruder 3D printing. The final choice is based on specific needs and experience levels.
Possibilities of Dual Extruder 3D Printing
By now, you may have gotten an idea of what is the extruder on a 3d printer. Let’s explore the various applications of dual extruder 3D printing.
Multi-material printing
For instance, one of the biggest advantages of dual extruder printers is that they can print two materials at once. This could mean you combine two different materials in one print, combining materials with differing properties—like rigid plastic with flexible one—thus producing more functional and durable prints.
Multi-color Printing
This is where multi-color printing is taken to a new level with the introduction of dual extruder printers. Unlike traditional multi-color machines, which take their color through either filament-changing techniques or filament-blending techniques, a dual extruder multicolor 3D printer can utilize two completely different filaments. This makes incredibly vibrant and precise color combinations achievable with little post-processing in the form of painting.
Benefits:
- Time is Saved: There’s no need to spend hours painting and waiting for your prints to dry.
- Creative Effects: Gradient effects or smooth color transitions using the specialized slicer software
Flexible Filament Assignment
Dual extruders come with several methods of using different filaments for specific parts of your print:
Adhesion Assistants
Use a filament that sticks well for the first layer to ensure an almost perfect foundation for your print.
Water-soluble Supports
Print supports using a material that can be dissolved and make it easy to get them out if an object is intricate and complex without damaging the main object.
Strengthened Infills
Based on requirements, use stronger internal print support material to build strength.
Functional Combination
Mix mainstream filament with conductive filament to create simple circuits. This method is suitable for projects that use breadboards with circuits.
Limitations of Dual Extruder 3D Printing
Less Build Volume
Due to the second extruder in the dual-head 3d printer, it usually has a smaller build area than printers with only one extruder. The second extruder in these devices consumes space, subtracting space needed for bigger prints. If you print many huge items, this might be a weakness to consider.
Potential Print Failure
The added complexity of dealing with two filaments increases the possibilities for problems, including filament jams and nozzle clogs. Dual extruder configurations require careful calibration and maintenance, which is challenging, especially for new users.
A Comparison: Single Extruder vs. Dual Extruder 3D Printer
| Feature | Single Extruder 3D Printer | Dual Extruder 3D Printer |
| Capabilities | Single material or color per print | Multi-material and/or multi-color printing |
| Setup Complexity | Simpler setup and maintenance | More complex setup; requires calibration for dual nozzles |
| Print Speed | Generally faster, no need for nozzle swapping | Slower due to extra weight and need for ooze towers/shields |
| Cost | Usually more affordable | Higher initial cost and maintenance expenses, more filament use |
| Print Quality | It may require post-processing for a multi-color or multi-material look | Enables complex designs with two materials without post-processing |
| Build Volume | Typically offers a larger build volume | Often reduced build volume to accommodate dual extruders |
| Common Applications | Basic single-color models, prototypes, simple objects | Complex parts, multi-material prototypes, detailed models |
| Suitability for Beginners | More beginner-friendly | Better for experienced users due to the added complexity |
Final Thought
Where dual extruder 3D printers bring creativity, the capabilities presented here are for more complex and functional prints. The scope is staggering, from multi-material and color endeavors to advanced filament assignments. However, these benefits come with added complexities: build volumes are smaller, and there is a higher chance of print failures. If you’re interested in dual extrusion printing, machines with a more modular design and easy-swapping extruders are great for a smoother learning curve as you expand your capabilities on the machine. Dual extruder 3D printers excite hobbyists seeking new creative opportunities and professionals needing all-around printing solutions.
