Big printer targets needs of automotive industry

Sept. 22, 2020
With the BIG-180X, Modix has expanded the printer's footprint to allow for the creation of wider parts.

BIG-180X Using much of the technology from Modix’s earlier BIG-120X fused-filament-fabrication 3-D printer, Modix has stretched the machine footprint to allow for the creation of wider parts. The BIG-180X was created with the demands of the automotive industry in mind. Like all of Modix’s printers, it comes delivered as a self-assembly kit, which makes it easy to transport this large-format printer through a standard-sized door. It comes with a longer filament guide than earlier printer models, a secondary print head is included as standard and it has a base price of $12,000. 

What’s new? Automatic bed calibration. To handle the demands of a heavier bed, Modix has added four Z-axis motors, each with a dedicated stepper motor driver, as well as a controller expansion board to allow for more precise control.  

Benefits The ability to print large, one-piece prototypes and final parts. This results in stronger parts and avoids the time-consuming post-processing steps necessary to combine smaller partial prints and then hide the seams.  

Modix Modular Technologies Ltd., Ramat Gan, Israel, 972-584-486-725, www.modix3d.com 

Vital statistics
Printer size, in feet7.1 by 3.5 by 4.7
Print volume, in feet5.9 by 2 by 2
Shipping weight, in pounds353