Discover how to produce large-scale 3D objects at unrivalled production speeds
If you think that 3D printing is limited to small objects, then think again. The new Mimaki 3DGD-1800 3D printer is capable of producing objects up to 1.8 metres tall! And that’s not all: it offers unrivalled production speed. Curious? Read on to discover the five unique features of our large-format 3D printer.
1. Print life-sized 3D objects
3D printers where you can actually stand on the print platform are pretty rare, but the new Mimaki 3DGD-1800 lets you do just that. This behemoth allows you to print life-sized objects up to 1.8 metres tall incredibly fast. Split up your designs into several parts and you can create even larger objects. This opens up a huge range of possibilities for unique large-format 3D sign and display applications, which would be impractical and time-consuming to produce with traditional Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) printers.
2. Super-fast production times with gel dispensing printing technology
One of the greatest assets of this printer is its production speed. Thanks to its gel dispensing technology, an object 1.8 metres tall can be printed in just seven hours. Contrary to FFF printers, the liquid MG-100 gel doesn’t need melting. During the printing process, it is instantly cured using UV light. To further optimise your production speed, you can use three different quality levels – normal, quality and high resolution – depending on the size of the head. And the gel is transparent, allowing you to illuminate your objects from within.
3. Two objects in one go
On top of its fast print speed and gigantic production output, the Mimaki 3DGD-1800 has another nifty feature: two independently operating print heads. This dual-head configuration allows you to print two different structures at the same time, even combining different head types, such as diameters of 1.8 and 2.6mm. Another huge time and money saver!
4. Printing support-free hollow structures
Another unique feature is the production of support-free hollow structures, saving you gel and production time. The printed objects are also lighter and thus more portable. And internal illumination is easier to achieve. Overhangs of up to 50 degrees can be printed without support, effectively doing away with the need for support structures at the top of your object. To make hollow structures sturdier, they can be filled with PU foam.
Mimaki’s software is primarily designed for support-free printing. You can activate this feature while easily switching between support structures on the inside and outside of your object. Producing moulds thus becomes much easier. For example, for concrete casting, support material can be used to reinforce the mould from outside, with no impact on its interior shape.
5. New applications
The Mimaki 3DGD-1800 is a truly unique machine, offering sign and display makers countless opportunities to create impressive new applications for their customers. Just think for example of life-sized 3D-printed POP displays, or mannequins and displays for shop windows or events. The printer is also perfect for full-size prototyping, interior design and producing props for set design.
Best of all, this 3D printer integrates seamlessly with the existing portfolio of Mimaki 2D printing solutions. By combining both techniques, colour and decoration can be added to 3D-printed objects for truly stunning results.
