Published on Sun Aug 16 2020 06:22:30 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

The LulzBot TAZ Pro: A Workhorse 3D Printer for Professionals

For those seeking a reliable and versatile 3D printer capable of tackling demanding projects, the LulzBot TAZ Pro has long been a contender. Designed for professional users and serious hobbyists alike, the TAZ Pro aims to deliver high-quality prints with a wide range of materials. Let’s dive into the details of this capable machine.

Under the Hood: LulzBot TAZ Pro Specifications

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what the TAZ Pro offers:

• Print Quality: Capable of achieving layer resolutions down to 50 microns (0.05mm) providing smooth surface finishes and intricate details.
• Build Volume: A generous 280mm x 280mm x 285mm (11in x 11in x 11.2in) build volume allows for printing large parts or multiple smaller components in a single run.
• Printing Speed: Maximum print speed reaching up to 50mm/s, balancing speed and precision for optimal results.
• Material Compatibility: Offers wide compatibility with a variety of materials, including PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Nylon, Polycarbonate, and composites. The TAZ Pro is designed to handle demanding filaments.
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: Features a heated borosilicate glass bed with PEI surface for excellent adhesion. Automatic bed leveling simplifies the setup process and ensures consistent print quality.
• Reliability: Known for its robust design and quality components, the TAZ Pro is built for continuous operation and dependable performance.
• Ease of Use: Equipped with a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls, making it accessible to both experienced users and those new to 3D printing.
• Firmware and Software: Runs on Marlin firmware, a popular open-source platform known for its customization options and stability. Compatible with Cura LulzBot Edition, a powerful slicing software tailored for the TAZ Pro.
• Connectivity Options: Offers USB and SD card connectivity, providing flexible options for transferring print files.
• Build Quality & Durability: Constructed with a sturdy aluminum frame and high-quality components, ensuring long-term durability and stability.
• Noise Level: Operates at a moderate noise level, making it suitable for use in office or workshop environments.
• Maintenance Requirements: Requires regular maintenance, including cleaning the print bed, lubricating moving parts, and checking for wear and tear. The TAZ Pro is designed for easy access to components for maintenance purposes.
• Customer Support: Backed by LulzBot’s reputation for responsive and helpful customer support.
• Upgradeability: Designed with upgradeability in mind, allowing users to enhance the printer with aftermarket parts and modifications.
• Price to Performance Ratio: Offers excellent value for its price, providing a combination of large build volume, material compatibility, and reliable performance.

TAZ Pro Usage Tips for Optimal Results

Getting the most out of your TAZ Pro involves a few key considerations:

• Leveling is Key: While the TAZ Pro has automatic bed leveling, occasionally double-checking and manually adjusting the bed can improve first layer adhesion, especially when working with tricky materials.
• Temperature Tuning: Every filament is different. Experiment with temperature settings (both nozzle and bed) to find the sweet spot for each material. Start with the manufacturer’s recommendations and adjust incrementally.
• Enclosure Considerations: For materials like ABS and Nylon, an enclosure can significantly improve print quality by reducing warping and cracking. While the TAZ Pro doesn’t come with an enclosure, aftermarket options are available.
• Proper Slicing is Crucial: Familiarize yourself with Cura LulzBot Edition. Understanding its settings and how they affect print quality will allow you to optimize your prints for strength, speed, and aesthetics.
• Maintenance Matters: Regular cleaning, lubrication, and inspections will keep your TAZ Pro running smoothly for years to come. Don’t neglect these tasks!
• Material Drying: Make sure that the used filament doesn’t have moisture in it, as this will ruin the printing process.

LulzBot TAZ Pro Rating

Here’s a comprehensive rating of the LulzBot TAZ Pro based on the specified categories, each out of 10:

• Print Quality: 9
• Build Volume: 9
• Printing Speed: 7
• Material Compatibility: 9
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 8
• Reliability: 9
• Ease of Use: 8
• Firmware and Software: 8
• Connectivity Options: 7
• Build Quality & Durability: 9
• Noise Level: 7
• Maintenance Requirements: 7
• Customer Support: 8
• Upgradeability: 8
• Price to Performance Ratio: 8

Average Score: 8.07

Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Demanding 3D Printing

The LulzBot TAZ Pro is a capable and reliable 3D printer that’s well-suited for professional users and experienced hobbyists. Its large build volume, material compatibility, and robust design make it a solid choice for tackling demanding projects. While it may require some initial setup and ongoing maintenance, the TAZ Pro delivers consistent performance and high-quality prints. If you’re looking for a workhorse 3D printer that can handle a wide range of materials, the LulzBot TAZ Pro is definitely worth considering.

Written by Alex