Nozzle Hub Zortrax Inventure

Published on Sun Oct 25 2020 22:06:59 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

The Zortrax Inventure: A Deep Dive into Desktop Professional 3D Printing

The Zortrax Inventure has carved a niche for itself as a reliable and capable desktop 3D printer geared towards professional users and small businesses. It’s more than just a hobbyist machine; it’s a tool designed for repeatable results, demanding geometries, and materials beyond the standard PLA fare. Let’s break down what makes the Inventure tick, from its core specifications to practical usage tips.

Specifications:

Printing Technology: Layer Plastic Deposition (LPD Plus, Zortrax’s Fused Filament Fabrication variant)
Build Volume: 130 x 130 x 130 mm (5.1 x 5.1 x 5.1 in)
Layer Resolution: 90-400 microns (0.0035 - 0.016 in)
Material Compatibility: Z-ABS, Z-ASA Pro, Z-PCABS, Z-PETG, Z-PLA Pro, Z-SUPPORT, Z-SUPPORT Plus, Z-SUPPORT Premium
Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
Operating System: Embedded Linux
Software: Z-SUITE
Dimensions: 345 x 360 x 485 mm (13.6 x 14.2 x 19.1 in)
Weight: 20 kg (44 lbs)
Enclosed Chamber: Yes, actively heated
HEPA Filter: Yes
Dissolvable Support Material: Yes (with dedicated extruder)

Key Features & Benefits:

Dual Extrusion: The Inventure boasts a dual extrusion system, allowing for the printing of complex geometries with dissolvable support materials. This is a huge advantage when creating parts with intricate internal structures or overhangs that would be impossible to print otherwise.
Heated Build Chamber: The actively heated build chamber is critical for managing temperature and minimizing warping, especially when working with materials like ABS and PCABS. It creates a stable thermal environment, leading to more consistent and accurate prints.
Z-SUITE Software: Z-SUITE is Zortrax’s proprietary slicing software. It’s tightly integrated with the Inventure, offering optimized print profiles for Zortrax materials and straightforward control over print settings.
Material Ecosystem: While not entirely closed, the Inventure is designed to work best with Zortrax’s own line of filaments. These materials are rigorously tested and optimized for the printer, ensuring the best possible results.
Automatic Leveling: The automated bed leveling system eliminates the need for manual adjustments, streamlining the setup process and ensuring consistent first-layer adhesion.
Enclosed Design & Filtration: The fully enclosed design and HEPA filter help contain fumes and particles, making the Inventure suitable for office environments.

Usage Tips for Optimal Results:

Material Selection: Choose the right material for your application. While the Inventure can handle a variety of materials, understanding their properties and limitations is essential. Refer to Zortrax’s material data sheets for specific recommendations.
Z-SUITE Configuration: Familiarize yourself with Z-SUITE’s settings. Experiment with print speed, layer height, infill density, and support settings to optimize your prints.
Support Material Removal: Dissolvable support materials require a dedicated tank of water. Follow Zortrax’s recommendations for temperature and immersion time to ensure complete and safe removal.
Filament Storage: Proper filament storage is crucial. Keep your filaments in airtight containers with desiccant packs to prevent moisture absorption, which can negatively impact print quality.
Regular Maintenance: Clean the nozzle, lubricate moving parts, and inspect the printer regularly to maintain optimal performance. Refer to the Zortrax user manual for detailed maintenance instructions.
Start with Test Prints: Before printing complex parts, run test prints (e.g., calibration cubes, overhang tests) to dial in your settings and ensure everything is working correctly.
Bed Adhesion: While the Inventure has good bed adhesion, use a raft or brim if you’re printing parts with small footprints or materials prone to warping.