What is the Benefit of a Dual Extruder 3D Printer?

Dual extruder 3D printers offer enhanced capabilities and efficiency, making them a popular choice for both hobbyists and professionals. These printers come equipped with two extruders, allowing for multiple filaments to be used simultaneously. This feature opens up a range of possibilities, from multi-color printing to the use of different materials in a single print. In this post, we will delve into the benefits of dual extruder 3D printers, highlight the top 10 models available, and discuss the pros and cons of this technology.

Benefits of Dual Extruder 3D Printers

• Multi-Material Printing: One of the primary benefits is the ability to print with two different materials. This is particularly useful for printing complex objects that require support structures. For instance, you can use a primary filament like PLA or ABS for the main structure and a soluble filament for the supports, which can be dissolved away after printing.
• Multi-Color Printing: Dual extruders allow for multi-color printing without the need for filament swapping. This makes the process more efficient and ensures better adhesion between layers of different colors.
• Enhanced Print Quality: Dual extruder printers can improve print quality by using one extruder for infill and another for the outer shell, optimizing each for its specific task.
• Reduced Print Time: By using different extruders for different parts of a print, you can reduce the overall print time. For example, one extruder can handle the finer details while the other handles the bulk material.
• Improved Versatility: These printers can handle a wider range of materials, from flexible filaments to high-strength composites, broadening the scope of projects you can undertake.

Multi-Material Printing

Multi-material printing with dual extruder 3D printers opens up a wide range of possibilities by allowing the use of different types of filaments in a single print job. This capability not only enhances the functionality and aesthetics of printed objects but also enables the creation of more complex and intricate designs. Here are some specific examples of materials that work well together:

• PLA and PVA:
  • PLA (Polylactic Acid): PLA is a popular and easy-to-use filament known for its excellent surface finish and ease of printing. It is widely used for printing models, prototypes, and decorative items.
  • PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol): PVA is a water-soluble support material that dissolves in water, making it ideal for printing complex geometries and overhangs. When used as a support structure for PLA, it allows for the creation of intricate designs without the need for manual removal of supports, resulting in a smoother finish and reducing the risk of damaging the print.
• ABS and HIPS:
  • ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): ABS is a strong and durable filament often used for functional parts and prototypes. It has a higher melting point and can withstand higher temperatures compared to PLA.
  • HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene): HIPS is another support material that dissolves in limonene. It pairs well with ABS, allowing for easy removal of support structures and the creation of complex parts with clean finishes.
• PLA and TPU:
  • TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): TPU is a flexible filament known for its elasticity and durability. Combining TPU with PLA allows for printing parts that require both rigidity and flexibility, such as gaskets, seals, or over-molded grips. The rigid PLA can be used for the main structure, while TPU provides the flexible components.
• Nylon and Carbon Fiber:
  • Nylon: Nylon is a strong, durable, and slightly flexible filament suitable for functional parts and mechanical components.
  • Carbon Fiber Reinforced Filaments: These filaments combine nylon with carbon fiber, offering increased strength and stiffness. Using a dual extruder, you can print the main structure with nylon and reinforce specific areas with carbon fiber for added strength and reduced weight.

Enhanced Print Quality

Enhanced print quality is one of the significant advantages of dual extruder 3D printers. By using different extruders for infill and the outer shell, you can achieve better surface finishes and structural integrity. Here’s how:

• Dedicated Extruders for Different Tasks:
  • Outer Shell (Perimeter): One extruder can be dedicated to printing the outer shell or perimeter of the object. By using a finer nozzle and higher quality filament, you can achieve a smoother and more detailed surface finish. This extruder can also be optimized for slow and precise printing to enhance the quality of the visible surfaces.
  • Infill: The second extruder can be used for printing the infill, where print quality is less critical. This extruder can be set to a coarser nozzle and faster print speed, reducing print time without compromising the overall structural integrity. Additionally, using a different material for the infill can further enhance the object’s strength or reduce its weight.
• Improved Structural Integrity:
  • Material Combination: By combining materials with different properties, you can optimize the structural integrity of the printed object. For example, using a rigid material for the outer shell and a flexible material for the infill can create parts that are both strong and impact-resistant. This approach is particularly useful for functional parts that need to withstand mechanical stress.
  • Reinforced Layers: Dual extruder printers allow for selective reinforcement of specific layers or areas within a print. This means you can reinforce high-stress areas with a stronger material while using a standard material for the rest of the print. This targeted reinforcement improves the durability and longevity of the printed part.
• Enhanced Aesthetics:
  • Multi-Color Printing: Using two different colored filaments, you can create visually appealing prints with distinct color separations. This is particularly useful for printing objects that require labeling, logos, or other visual elements that need to stand out.
  • Textured Surfaces: By using different materials with varying textures or finishes, you can add unique tactile elements to your prints. For example, combining a glossy filament for the outer shell with a matte filament for certain features can create an interesting contrast and enhance the overall appearance of the object.

Top Dual Extruder 3D Printers

Sovol SV04

• Print Area: 300 x 300 x 400 mm
• Default Print Speed: 60 mm/s
• Max Print Speed: 120 mm/s
• Max Acceleration: Not specified
• Price: $339
• Waste Handling: Not specified
• Filament Types: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU
• Temperature Ranges:
  • Hotend: Up to 260°C
  • Print Bed: Up to 110°C
• Features:
  • IDEX Direct Drive Dual Extruders: Allows for independent dual extrusion, enabling multi-material and multi-color printing.
  • Auto-Leveling Bed Sensor: Ensures a perfectly leveled bed for every print.
  • Magnetic Flexible Build Plate: Easy removal of prints and quick setup.
  • Filament Run-Out Detection and Print Recovery: Automatically pauses the print if filament runs out and resumes once reloaded.

Flashforge Creator Pro 2

• Print Area: 200 x 148 x 150 mm
• Default Print Speed: 60 mm/s
• Max Print Speed: 100 mm/s
• Max Acceleration: Not specified
• Price: $625 - $650
• Waste Handling: Not specified
• Filament Types: PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, HIPS, etc.
• Temperature Ranges:
  • Hotend: Up to 240°C
  • Print Bed: Up to 120°C
• Features:
  • Independent Dual Extruders (IDEX): Enables printing with two different materials or colors simultaneously.
  • Heated Build Plate: Ensures better adhesion and reduces warping.
  • Enclosed Build Chamber: Maintains a stable temperature for better print quality.
  • Anti-Scrape Design: Prevents the nozzles from scraping the print surface.

Geeetech A20M

• Print Area: 255 x 255 x 255 mm
• Default Print Speed: 60 mm/s
• Max Print Speed: 120 mm/s
• Max Acceleration: Not specified
• Price: Around $300
• Waste Handling: Not specified
• Filament Types: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU
• Temperature Ranges:
  • Hotend: Up to 250°C
  • Print Bed: Up to 100°C
• Features:
  • Mix-Color Printing Capability: Allows for printing with mixed colors for more vibrant prints.
  • Filament Detector: Pauses the print if the filament runs out.
  • Break-Resuming Capability: Resumes printing after a power outage.
  • 360° Ventilation Design: Enhances heat dissipation for better print quality.

Ultimaker S3

• Print Area: 230 x 190 x 200 mm
• Default Print Speed: 24 mm³/s
• Max Print Speed: Not specified
• Max Acceleration: Not specified
• Price: $4,395
• Waste Handling: Not specified
• Filament Types: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Nylon, CPE, ect.
• Temperature Ranges:
  • Hotend: Up to 280°C
  • Print Bed: Up to 140°C
• Features:
  • Composite-Ready Dual Extrusion: Capable of printing with composite materials.
  • Advanced Auto Bed Leveling: Ensures a perfectly leveled bed for every print.
  • Touchscreen UI: Easy-to-use interface for better user experience.
  • Swappable Print Cores: Allows for quick changes between different nozzle sizes.

Raise3D Pro2

• Print Area: 305 x 305 x 300 mm
• Default Print Speed: 60 mm/s
• Max Print Speed: 150 mm/s
• Max Acceleration: Not specified
• Price: $3,999
• Waste Handling: HEPA air filtration
• Filament Types: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Nylon, PC, Carbon Fiber, Metal-filled, Wood-filled
• Temperature Ranges:
  • Hotend: Up to 300°C
  • Print Bed: Up to 110°C
• Features:
  • Dual Extrusion with Retracting Hot Ends: Reduces the risk of cross-contamination between materials.
  • HEPA Air Filtration: Filters out harmful particles for a safer printing environment.
  • 7-Inch Touchscreen: Provides an intuitive interface for easy operation.
  • Resume Print After Power Loss: Automatically resumes printing after a power outage.

Qidi Tech X-Pro

• Print Area: 230 x 150 x 150 mm
• Default Print Speed: 60 mm/s
• Max Print Speed: 150 mm/s
• Max Acceleration: Not specified
• Price: Around $600
• Waste Handling: Not specified
• Filament Types: PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, etc.
• Temperature Ranges:
  • Hotend: Up to 250°C
  • Print Bed: Up to 100°C
• Features:
  • Fully Enclosed: Provides a stable temperature environment for better print quality.
  • Dual Extruders: Allows for multi-material and multi-color printing.
  • Heated Bed: Enhances adhesion and reduces warping.

BIBO 2 Touch

• Print Area: 214 x 186 x 160 mm
• Default Print Speed: 60 mm/s
• Max Print Speed: 150 mm/s
• Max Acceleration: Not specified
• Price: $579
• Waste Handling: Not specified
• Filament Types: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU
• Temperature Ranges:
  • Hotend: Up to 270°C
  • Print Bed: Up to 100°C
• Features:
  • Laser Engraving: Adds additional functionality for engraving various materials.
  • Wi-Fi Control: Allows for remote control and monitoring.
  • Copy Printing: Enables printing two identical objects simultaneously.

Entina X40 V3

• Print Area: 300 x 300 x 400 mm
• Default Print Speed: 60 mm/s
• Max Print Speed: 150 mm/s
• Max Acceleration: Not specified
• Price: $699
• Waste Handling: Not specified
• Filament Types: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU
• Temperature Ranges:
  • Hotend: Up to 260°C
  • Print Bed: Up to 100°C
• Features:
  • Independent Dual Extruders: Allows for dual-material and dual-color printing.
  • Auto Leveling: Ensures a perfectly leveled bed for every print.
  • Built-in Camera: Enables remote monitoring of the printing process.

Snapmaker J1S

• Print Area: 300 x 200 x 200 mm
• Default Print Speed: 120 mm/s
• Max Print Speed: 350 mm/s
• Max Acceleration: 1000mm/s²
• Price: $999
• Waste Handling: Not specified
• Filament Types: PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, Nylon,HIPS, PC, etc.
• Temperature Ranges:
  • Hotend: Up to 300°C
  • Print Bed: Up to 100°C
• Features:
  • High Speed Printing: Max print speed up to 350mm/s.
  • Multi Printing Modes: In addition to the normal mode, there are three other printing modes: Backup Mode, Copy Mode, Mirror Mode
  • Intelligent IDEX Calibration: Auto-leveling, 3D printing Vibration compensation, and cornering optimization.
  • Dual-material printing: Support printing with two materials in a single object.
  • High-Resolution Touchscreen: 5 inch

Prusa XL 5-Tool Version

• Print Area: 360 x 360 x 360 mm
• Default Print Speed: 60 mm/s
• Max Print Speed: 200 mm/s
• Max Acceleration: Not specified
• Price: $4,000
• Waste Handling: Integrated waste management system
• Filament Types: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Nylon, Carbon Fiber, PC, ASA
• Temperature Ranges:
  • Hotend: Up to 300°C
  • Print Bed: Up to 120°C
• Features:
  • Tool Changer: The 5-tool version allows for automatic tool changes, enabling the use of multiple materials and colors in a single print.
  • Next-Generation Extruder: Designed for precision and reliability, the extruder handles a wide range of filaments.
  • Auto Bed Leveling: Ensures a perfectly leveled bed for every print, enhancing print quality and reliability.
  • Advanced Electronics: Features a 32-bit controller and advanced sensors for precise control and monitoring.
  • Enclosed Build Chamber: Provides a stable temperature environment for better print quality and reduced warping.
  • High-Resolution Touchscreen: Offers an intuitive interface for easy operation and monitoring.

Pros and Cons of Dual Extruder 3D Printers

Pros:

Versatility:

• Multiple Materials and Colors: Dual extruder 3D printers allow you to print with different materials simultaneously. This means you can combine materials with different properties, such as a rigid material for the main structure and a flexible material for joints or over-molded parts. Additionally, you can print in multiple colors without needing to stop and change filaments, enhancing aesthetic appeal and functionality.

Efficiency:

• Time-Saving: By having two extruders, you can print complex models that would typically require manual intervention for filament changes. This automation reduces downtime and increases overall printing efficiency, making the workflow smoother and faster.

Improved Quality:

• Dedicated Extruders: Each extruder can be optimized for specific tasks, such as using one extruder for printing with soluble support material, which can be dissolved away, leaving a clean finish. This can lead to higher quality prints with finer details and smoother surfaces, especially for intricate designs.

Creativity:

• Expanded Design Possibilities: Dual extruders open up new design opportunities. You can print objects with complex geometries, incorporate different materials for functional parts, and create visually appealing multi-color prints. This expanded capability fosters creativity and innovation in your projects.

Cons:

Complexity:

• Increased Potential for Issues: More moving parts mean there are more components that can potentially fail or require adjustment. Dual extruder systems can be more complex to set up and operate, demanding a higher level of understanding and experience from the user.

Cost:

• Higher Expense: Dual extruder printers are generally more expensive than their single extruder counterparts. This higher initial investment might be a barrier for hobbyists or small businesses with limited budgets. Additionally, the cost of maintenance and replacement parts can also be higher.

Maintenance:

• More Upkeep Required: With two extruders, there is twice the amount of hardware that needs regular maintenance, such as cleaning and calibration. Ensuring both extruders are aligned and functioning correctly can be time-consuming and may require more frequent adjustments to maintain print quality.

Weight:

• Increased Bulk:Dual extruder setups add extra components to the printer, making it heavier and bulkier. This added weight can affect the printer's portability and might necessitate a more robust frame and stronger motors to handle the additional load, potentially impacting print speed and precision.

FAQ

Is a Dual Drive Extruder Better?

• Yes, dual drive extruders are generally better for gripping and feeding filament. Dual drive extruders use two gears to grip the filament from both sides, providing better traction. This results in more consistent prints and reduces the risk of filament jams, especially with flexible filaments. The enhanced grip ensures smooth and reliable filament feeding, leading to higher print quality.

Does a Dual Extruder Print Faster?

• Dual extruders can potentially reduce print time. By using two nozzles, dual extruder printers can handle different parts of the print simultaneously. For example, one extruder can print support structures while the other prints the main model, effectively cutting down on print time. This parallel processing is particularly beneficial for complex prints requiring significant support.

What is the Difference Between a Single and Dual Extruder?

• The primary difference is the number of nozzles.A single extruder printer has one nozzle for filament deposition, limiting it to one material or color at a time. A dual extruder printer, on the other hand, has two nozzles, allowing for multi-material or multi-color printing. This capability expands the range of designs and applications, enabling more complex and functional prints, such as using one nozzle for soluble supports.

Why is a Direct Drive Extruder Better?

• Direct drive extruders provide better control over filament extrusion.In a direct drive setup, the extruder is mounted directly on the print head, reducing the distance the filament travels before reaching the nozzle. This configuration offers precise control, particularly with flexible filaments that can be challenging to manage in a Bowden setup. The shorter filament path minimizes retraction issues and improves print quality, especially for detailed and intricate prints.