The New Modix Large-format 3D Printer Is Just $6,900

Modix, a maker of large and medium format material extrusion systems, is poised to showcase its newest 3D printer, the Modix Core-Meter, at the upcoming Formnext 2023 event. The Core-Meter is priced incredibly low at $6,900, yet offers a substantial build volume of 1,000 by 1,000 by 1,000 mm. Typically, printers with such expansive build volumes carry a hefty price tag, often soaring above $50,000. However, this extremely affordable price introduces a new paradigm. For the cost of an Ultimaker and less than many professional systems, the opportunity to print enormous objects now becomes a reality.

I believe this will entice many industrial firms who may have previously deemed 3D printing too costly for their larger part sizes. Consider industries like molding, casting, and rail, for instance, which deal with, for us, sizable parts. These firms are highly cost-conscious and seek reliable machines — workhorses like the 3NTR and Filament Innovations systems. Previously, the high-temperature 3D printing market was rather inaccessible until Intamsys introduced a system priced around $6,000, which significantly opened up the market. Through these firms, high repeatability and high flow were achievable, but the cost of printing large parts remained a barrier. Now, with Modix’s larger format, the purchase could become an impulsive decision for many firms.

The printer operates on a Core XY mechanism, equipped with Duet and boasts a high-flow hot end and extruder from Phaetus, namely the Rapida and APUS. Optional additions include enclosures, air filtration, and filament drying, which can be purchased separately. Modix’s 3D printers have always been heralded as workhorses; they are robust, not delicate. They are designed to essentially be flat-packed, requiring assembly, a feature that translates to shipping savings for both Modix and its customers.

¨Modix is taking a significant step forward by diversifying our product portfolio. We will soon offer a total of seven distinct models, catering to a broader spectrum of customer requirements,” Modix CEO Shachar Gafni said.

¨We firmly believe that the Core family is positioned to tap into an untapped market segment, delivering high-quality large 3D printers to a wider audience. We are eager to showcase our new offerings in our expanded booth at Formnext and anticipate reconnecting with industry partners and colleagues at this momentous event,” said CCO John van El.

Recently, the medium format market has become quite saturated, witnessing numerous releases of large material extrusion systems despite the segment’s modest size. I believe that the medium format, in particular, has a vast array of applications. It accommodates formwork, large molds, casts, outdoor advertising, house components, car aftermarket components, plumbing, room dividers, furniture, specialty vehicle components, and more. One application, specialty vehicles, is an area I’m particularly excited about.

While the future appears promising, the present scenario seems somewhat murky. The current array of medium format systems are large, pricey, and offer limited build volumes. On the other hand, larger systems like those from CEAD are tailored for much bigger parts, 2m and up, but come at a steep cost. Is there a sweet spot for an affordably priced 1m build volume 3D printer? I am hopeful, especially considering the low cost per print on this machine. It permits slow printing for enhanced accuracy, and the option to acquire multiple units is always there. This pricing might just be the catalyst to stimulate growth in this segment.

In scenarios like outdoor advertising and molds, where a single component could cost $5,000 or $10,000, the business case for this machine becomes extremely compelling. This venture by Modix is audacious and could potentially unlock a plethora of exciting new applications.