Massive Dimension launches new MDPH2 pellet head extruder for large format 3D printing

Massive Dimension, a Vermont-based company specializing in large format 3D printing, recently released a new pellet head extruder, the MDPH2. The new product, a direct print pellet head extruder  specifically developed for large format 3D printing, offers higher productivity and faster print times for large-scale jobs.

Though commonly used for standard extrusion-based 3D printing, filaments are not particularly well suited to large-format printing because the amount of force that can be applied to the filament is limited. In other words, the print process for large-scale parts risks being very time consuming. Fortunately, alternative material feed systems, such as pellet head extrusion, are a better match for large format printing.

Massive Dimension’s pellet head extruders, for instance, utilize plastic pellets or granular shavings as their raw material and are capable of achieving much higher material outputs than a filament extruder. Moreover, the pellet-based system allows for a wider range of materials to be 3D printed, as it can process plastics that cannot be easily converted into filaments.

The new MDPH2 by Massive Dimension is designed to be mounted onto any movement system. According to the company, it has installed its extruders on industrial robotic arms as well as on XYZ-based systems.

“As 3D printers get larger, filament is not a viable option for fabrication as the output is too slow,” the company writes on its website. “The next solution is a direct print pellet head extruder. Using pellets to directly print objects. We have designed the best pellet head extrude on the market. Our direct pellet printer extrudes produce the most consistent output. We have studied every aspect of extrusion to make sure that all the components work together to be as efficient as possible.”

The MDPH2 is available on Massive Dimension’s website for $4,949 and is equipped with a high power motor, dual PID temperature controllers and a high pressure screw. In terms of speed, the extruder boasts a 2 lb per hour output. The hardware is compatible with all standard 3D printing materials, including ABS, PLA, HIPS, TPU, as well as higher performance materials like ULTEM, PC, PEEK, PS and more.

Other features include a simple mount setup, an active cooling system to keep the feed throat at the right temperature, a removable enclosure and a removable screw for easy cleaning.