Nozzle Hub Snapmaker 2.0 A350T

Published on Fri Mar 05 2021 23:24:06 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Snapmaker 2.0 A350T: A Deep Dive into the All-in-One Powerhouse

The Snapmaker 2.0 A350T isn’t just a 3D printer; it’s a versatile digital fabrication machine designed to bring your ideas to life across multiple mediums. Combining 3D printing, laser engraving/cutting, and CNC carving into a single unit, it promises a comprehensive maker experience. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s explore the A350T in detail.

What is the Snapmaker 2.0 A350T?

The Snapmaker 2.0 A350T is the largest in the Snapmaker 2.0 series, boasting a substantial build volume and enhanced features compared to its smaller siblings. It’s targeted towards hobbyists, small businesses, and educators who need a multi-functional tool for prototyping, creating intricate designs, and producing small-scale products.

Detailed Specifications:

3D Printing:
- Print Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- Build Volume: 320 x 350 x 330 mm (12.6 x 13.8 x 13 inches)
- Layer Resolution: 50 - 300 microns
- Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (Can be upgraded)
- Maximum Nozzle Temperature: 275°C (527°F)
- Maximum Heated Bed Temperature: 80°C (176°F)
- Supported Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Wood-filled PLA, Carbon Fiber-filled PLA, and more (Material compatibility depends on experimentation and appropriate settings).
- Print Speed: Up to 150mm/s (Optimal speeds depend on material and print complexity)
Laser Engraving/Cutting:
- Laser Power: 1.6W (450nm wavelength)
- Working Area: 320 x 350 mm
- Materials: Wood, leather, acrylic, paper, fabric, and more (Material thickness and cut capabilities vary).
- Cutting Depth: Varies depending on material; typically up to 3mm for thin wood or acrylic.
CNC Carving:
- Working Area: 320 x 350 x 330 mm
- Spindle Speed: 6,000 - 12,000 RPM
- Supported Materials: Wood, acrylic, PCB, carbon fiber (Soft materials are recommended for optimal performance and tool life).
- Shank Diameter: 3.175mm
General:
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB
- Display: 5-inch Touchscreen
- Power Input: 100-240V AC
- File Formats: STL, OBJ, G-Code (for 3D Printing), SVG, DXF (for Laser), G-Code (for CNC)
- Software: Snapmaker Luban (All-in-one software for 3D printing, laser engraving/cutting, and CNC carving)

Usage Tips for Optimal Performance:

3D Printing:
- Leveling: Bed leveling is crucial for successful prints. Utilize the auto-leveling feature and manually fine-tune if needed. Consider a BLTouch upgrade for enhanced auto-leveling.
- Adhesion: Use appropriate bed adhesion techniques, such as glue stick, blue painter’s tape, or specialized bed adhesives, depending on the material.
- Material Settings: Research and test optimal temperature, speed, and retraction settings for each filament type. Experimentation is key.
- Enclosure: For materials like ABS, an enclosure is highly recommended to maintain a consistent temperature and prevent warping. Snapmaker sells an optional enclosure.
Laser Engraving/Cutting:
- Focusing: Proper laser focus is critical for clean cuts and engravings. Utilize the focusing tool and adjust the height accordingly.
- Air Assist: Consider adding an air assist system to improve cut quality and reduce burning, especially with thicker materials.
- Material Testing: Always test engraving/cutting parameters on a small area of the material before committing to the entire project.
- Safety: Wear appropriate laser safety glasses at all times. Ensure proper ventilation to remove fumes.
CNC Carving:
- Workholding: Securely clamp the workpiece to the bed to prevent movement during carving.
- Tool Selection: Choose the appropriate tool for the material and desired cut. Use sharp, high-quality bits.
- Feed Rate and Depth of Cut: Experiment with feed rates and depths of cut to optimize performance and prevent tool breakage.
- Dust Collection: Use a vacuum system to remove dust and debris.

Snapmaker Luban Software:

Snapmaker Luban is the unified software platform for controlling the A350T’s various functions. It allows you to:

Import and prepare 3D models for printing.
Design and import laser engraving/cutting files.
Generate CNC toolpaths from 2D and 3D designs.
Monitor and control the machine.
Update firmware.

While Luban is convenient, some users may find it limiting compared to dedicated software like Cura (for 3D printing) or LightBurn (for laser engraving). However, it’s a good starting point and provides a streamlined workflow for beginners.

Pros:

Versatility: 3D printing, laser engraving/cutting, and CNC carving in one machine.
Large Build Volume: The A350T’s build volume is significant, allowing for larger projects.
Ease of Assembly: Relatively easy to assemble with clear instructions.
Modular Design: Allows for future upgrades and expansions.
Active Community: Strong online community for support and sharing ideas.

Cons:

Price: The A350T is a significant investment.
Complexity: Mastering all three functions requires time and effort.
Software Limitations: Luban may not be as powerful as dedicated software.
Laser Power: The 1.6W laser is suitable for engraving and thin cuts, but struggles with thicker materials.
Noise Level: The machine can be noisy, especially during CNC carving.

Overall Impression:

The Snapmaker 2.0 A350T offers a compelling all-in-one solution for makers looking to explore a range of digital fabrication techniques. While it’s not perfect, its versatility, ease of assembly, and large build volume make it a valuable tool for prototyping, creating personalized gifts, and exploring various creative projects.

Score Breakdown (out of 10):