Large-format 3D printer manufacturer BigRep has revealed its newest AM system, the STUDIO G2. The hardware is the latest generation of BigRep’s STUDIO 3D printer line and it introduces a range of improvements, including compatibility with engineering-grade materials.

BigRep introduced its original STUDIO 3D printing system in 2016 and it has since become recognized as a “workhorse 3D printer for premium large-format objects.” The latest iteration of the STUDIO system—the STUDIO G2—maintains many of the qualities of the original machine while introducing new features for improved speed and quality.

“We are excited to host the world premiere of the STUDIO G2 at North America’s most influential AM event—RAPID + TCT,” said Frank Marangell, BigRep CBO. “We believe that both customers already relying on the original machine and new ones appreciate the many advanced featured of the STUDIO G2.”

The German-engineered and manufactured system integrates a number of temperature-related features that make it compatible with a broad range of engineering-grade materials. For instance, it has a fully enclosed and insulated build envelope of 500 x 1000 x 500 mm, a fast-heating print bed with temperatures up to 100°C and a temperature-controlled filament chamber. The processing of abrasive industrial materials, such as PA6/66, is further enabled by dual 0.6 mm ruby nozzles, which can achieve layer heights as fine as 0.1 mm.

In addition to PA6/66, BigRep plans to introduce a range of other engineering-grade materials, including ASA and composites with carbon and glass fiber reinforcements. Despite its large build volume, the 3D printer has a surprisingly compact footprint, with a height of 176.5 cm. BigRep said it was designed to fit ergonomically into most workspaces.

“The new generation STUDIO G2 is a great addition to our expanding industrial portfolio of large-format printers,” said BigRep CEO Stephan Beyer, PhD. “Based on proven, successful technology, the STUDIO G2 is upgraded with key features that industrial users need. We’ve built it for printing with the abrasive, engineering-grade materials that the industry demands in a next-level, space-saving printer for large-format parts.”

The STUDIO G2 release is also accompanied by the launch of the new proprietary BigRep BLADE slicer software, which offers accurate print time predictions and material use calculations. The software helps to boost productivity using the new large-format system.

At the RAPID event in Detroit this week, BigRep will also be displaying NERA, the first fully 3D printed electric motorbike and the BigRep PRO 3D printer, first announced at Formnext 2018.