LightMake has introduced the L4, a desktop 3D printer equipped with four independent print heads, designed to tackle common issues in desktop 3D printing. These issues often include quality compromises when increasing print speeds, filament wastage with multi-color prints, and the need for extensive hardware to manage larger production loads.
The standout feature of the L4 is its ability to operate with multiple moving toolheads, allowing for multi-color, multi-material, or parallel batch printing. By utilizing separate physical gantries for each toolhead, the L4 seeks to eliminate the waste and slow speeds associated with traditional multi-color setups, effectively bringing small-scale production capabilities closer to those found in industrial 3D printers.
This system claims to drastically reduce waste; with less than 1 gram of purge material produced during a sample print. Each toolhead can be loaded with a different filament, facilitating quick switching between colors without the need for extensive purging. The printer reportedly functions efficiently in duplication or mirror mode, producing up to four identical components at once.
The L4 is propelled by a beltless, closed-loop linear-motor system, allowing for impressive travel speeds of up to 1,000 mm/s and maximum print speeds of 500 mm/s, with precision up to ± 1 µm. The design includes a die-cast frame paired with active vibration control, which helps maintain stability during high-speed operations, with the linear motors rated for over 50,000 hours of use.
In terms of scaling, the L4 offers a build volume of 354 x 370 x 386 mm. This size allows for larger prints and offers the potential for more intricate multi-color projects. An optional filament expansion and drying system could increase the L4’s capability to handle as many as 16 colors, promoting versatility in use.
The pricing for the L4 starts at $1,299 during its Kickstarter launch, compared to a retail price of $2,399. The campaign also features other models, including a single-toolhead L1 for $1,099, while packages that include added features are also available.
As with any crowdfunding initiative, potential backers should be mindful of the promised capabilities since actual production specs will need to be validated through real-world use. Nonetheless, the LightMake L4 presents an ambitious approach to desktop 3D printing, combining advanced features that could redefine capabilities in this space.
For more details and updates on this product, you can visit their Kickstarter page.