Nozzle Hub Anycubic Kobra 2

Published on Wed Oct 06 2021 06:48:57 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

The Anycubic Kobra 2: A Deep Dive into Speed and Simplicity

The Anycubic Kobra 2 burst onto the 3D printing scene promising speed without sacrificing quality. It’s targeted toward users who want to produce models quickly, whether they’re experienced hobbyists or newcomers just getting their feet wet. This article provides an in-depth look at the Kobra 2, exploring its specifications, offering practical usage tips, and evaluating its overall performance as a standalone product.

Anycubic Kobra 2: Specifications at a Glance

Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250 mm (8.7 x 8.7 x 9.8 inches)
Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (Standard)
Maximum Nozzle Temperature: 260°C
Maximum Bed Temperature: 110°C
Layer Resolution: 0.05 - 0.3 mm
Printing Speed: Up to 250mm/s (claimed, but realistic speeds are often lower)
Supported Filaments: PLA, TPU, PETG, ABS (experimentation recommended for more exotic materials)
Bed Leveling: Automatic Leveling (LeviQ 2.0)
Connectivity: SD Card, USB
Display: 4.3-inch Color LCD Touchscreen
Frame: Aluminum
Power Supply: 350W
Dimensions: 486 x 435 x 463 mm
Weight: Approximately 8.4 kg

Getting Started: Unboxing and Initial Setup

The Anycubic Kobra 2 generally comes well-packaged, minimizing the risk of damage during shipping. Assembly is straightforward, requiring the attachment of a few components using included hardware. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, even for beginners. Plan for about 30-60 minutes for the entire unboxing and setup process.

Initial Steps:

Unpack Carefully: Remove all protective packaging and check for any missing parts.
Assemble the Frame: Attach the gantry to the base using the provided screws.
Connect Cables: Ensure all cables are securely connected to their corresponding ports.
Power On: Turn on the printer and follow the on-screen instructions to initialize the system.
Bed Leveling: Initiate the automatic bed leveling procedure (LeviQ 2.0). This is crucial for ensuring proper adhesion and print quality.

Optimizing Your Prints: Usage Tips and Best Practices

To get the most out of your Anycubic Kobra 2, consider these practical tips:

First Layer is Key: Ensure your first layer is properly dialed in. Adjust the Z-offset if needed to achieve optimal adhesion. The first layer should be slightly squished onto the bed without being excessively flattened.
Filament Choice: While the Kobra 2 officially supports PLA, TPU, PETG, and ABS, results may vary based on filament brand and quality. Start with PLA as it’s the most forgiving.
Temperature Settings: Calibrate your temperature settings for each filament type. Perform temperature towers to determine the optimal nozzle temperature for your chosen material.
Print Speed: While the Kobra 2 boasts impressive speeds, reducing the speed can significantly improve print quality, especially for intricate models. Experiment with different speeds to find the best balance between speed and quality.
Adhesion Enhancement: If you experience adhesion issues, consider using a brim or raft. Cleaning the print bed with isopropyl alcohol before each print also helps.
Slicing Software: Anycubic recommends their own slicer, but popular alternatives like Cura and PrusaSlicer are also compatible. Configure your slicer settings to match the Kobra 2’s specifications.
Maintenance: Regularly clean the nozzle and print bed. Periodically lubricate the lead screws to ensure smooth movement.

Evaluating Performance

The Anycubic Kobra 2 offers a compelling blend of speed, ease of use, and reasonable print quality. However, it’s essential to consider its strengths and weaknesses:

Strengths:

Relatively Fast Printing: Delivers significantly faster prints compared to many budget-friendly alternatives.
Automatic Bed Leveling: LeviQ 2.0 simplifies the leveling process, making it easier for beginners.
User-Friendly Interface: The touchscreen interface is intuitive and easy to navigate.
Good Print Quality (with tuning): Capable of producing detailed prints with proper calibration and optimized settings.

Weaknesses:

Claimed vs. Actual Speed: Reaching the advertised 250mm/s often requires significant adjustments and may compromise print quality.
No Enclosure: Lack of an enclosure limits the materials you can reliably print. ABS and other temperature-sensitive materials can be challenging to print without one.
Potential for Vibration: At higher speeds, the printer can exhibit some vibration, potentially affecting print quality.

Conclusion: Is the Anycubic Kobra 2 Right for You?

The Anycubic Kobra 2 is a solid choice for users who value speed and ease of use. It’s particularly well-suited for hobbyists who want to churn out prints quickly and are willing to experiment with settings to optimize print quality. While it may not be the best option for those seeking industrial-grade precision or materials, the Kobra 2 offers a compelling balance of features and performance at its price point.