BCN3D introduces new Sigma and Sigmax R19 3D printers
The new 3D printers boast dual extrusion along with a slew of new or improved features
Barcelona-based 3D printer manufacturer BCN3D Technologies has introduced two new 3D printers: the Sigma R19 and the Sigmax R19. Both 3D printers integrate new dual extrusion systems and a slew of other features for better quality, more reliable desktop 3D printing.
Looking at the new machines’ hardware, both systems feature extruders powered by Bondtech and hotends optimized by e3D. They also come with new filament runout sensors, which can detect when a spool of filament is running out, a refined and updated GUI and UX as well as new slicing software BCN3D Cura 2.1.0.
With the dual extrusion set up, users can benefit from Mirror and Duplication print modes, as well as printing with soluble supports or multi-colours. This is enabled thanks to the IDEX (Independent Dual Extruder System) architecture. The main difference between the Sigma R19 and the Sigmax R19 is in terms of build volume. (The Sigma R19 boasts a build volume of 210 x 297 x 210 mm, while the Sigmax R19 has a significantly larger envelope of 420 x 297 x 210 mm.)
“The new Sigma R19 and Sigmax R19 are equipped with one of the most powerful extrusion systems so far and also with the unique IDEX architecture,” explained Xavier Martinez, CEO of BCN3D Technologies. “Such a great combination turn both printers into two of the most productive and reliable 3D printers ever seen. We’ve partnered together with top world manufacturers such as e3D and Bondtech in order to equip our 3D printers with the top-grade components available nowadays in the 3D printing industry.”
The new R19 3D printers are already commercially available, either through BCN3D’s website or its reseller network. The first shipments are expected to begin shipping as soon as September 12.
In developing the newly released 3D printers, BCN3D says it worked closely with hotend specialist e3D to equip the machines with “top-level” hotends and extrusion systems. The new hardware, compatible with all previous Sigma and Sigmax 3D printers, ensures smooth print quality and reliable extrusion. The 3D printers also integrate an aluminum CNC extruder with hardened steel drive gears powered by Bondtech.
In terms of the updated GUI and UX, both the Sigma R19 and Sigmax R19 feature built-in, cull-colour touchscreens.
Marc Felis, BCN3D Technologies Marketing Manager, elaborated: “For this new generation of BCN3D printers, not only have we worked on creating a great hardware but also in improving the user experience, creating a refined graphic user interface with new informative screens, maintenance recommendations, new guided assistants and access to advanced settings. The ultimate test of a product comes when the users confront it, not just from a list of its specifications. That’s why we’ve taken special care of each phase of the user experience.”
Other features worth mentioning are the new temperature-controlled enclosure with built-in HEPA filter to help prevent warping with certain polymers (including ABS, Nylon and PET-G) and interchangeable toolheads. That is, the new R19 3D printers are both compatible with the Hotend Family, which includes six hotends ranging in size from 0.3 mm to 1.0 mm.
For those already operating BCN3D 3D printers, the company is preparing to release an R19 upgrade kit. This kit will enable owners of an original or R17 Sigma (or Sigmax) to update their machine with the new R19 features. The upgrade kits are expected to launch in November 2018.
“Our experience says that being Open Source it has no sense to keep old users trapped in old features wanting them to purchase a new machine to catch up with the rest of the community. Instead, we want the maximum number of users to enjoy the new features, that’s why we will release these kits,” said Martinez. “Furthermore, following our commitment with the Open Source community, all CAD files of the new R19 3D printers will be published during the following months.”
