Published on Tue Oct 04 2022 01:33:42 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex
The Airwolf 3D Axiom: A Deep Dive into this Workhorse 3D Printer
The Airwolf 3D Axiom stands as a well-regarded machine in the professional and enthusiast 3D printing space. Known for its enclosed build chamber and ability to handle a wide range of materials, it’s a printer often chosen for demanding applications. Let’s take an in-depth look at what the Axiom offers.
Detailed Specifications:
-
Build Volume: 12” x 8” x 9.5” (305mm x 203mm x 241mm) - A generous build volume suitable for larger prototypes and functional parts.
-
Layer Resolution: Down to 40 microns (0.04mm) - Fine layer resolution allows for detailed prints with smooth surfaces.
-
Print Speed: Up to 150mm/s (travel speed is higher) - Offers a balance between speed and print quality. Achieving the top end of this range depends on the material and complexity of the print.
-
Nozzle Diameter: Standard 0.5mm, but accepts other sizes - Versatile nozzle size allows for fine detail or faster printing.
-
Filament Diameter: 1.75mm - The standard filament diameter, providing access to a huge variety of materials.
-
Heated Bed: Yes, up to 160°C - Essential for printing materials like ABS and other high-temperature filaments.
-
Enclosed Build Chamber: Yes, actively heated - Crucial for maintaining consistent temperatures and reducing warping, especially with temperature-sensitive filaments.
-
Frame: Aluminum Frame for sturdiness and longevity.
-
Connectivity: USB, SD Card - Offers flexible options for transferring print files.
-
Electronics: Proprietary electronics and software - Optimized for the Axiom’s specific features.
-
Power Supply: Internal industrial power supply.
-
Weight: Approximately 70 lbs (31.75 kg) - A robust and stable machine.
-
Dimensions (External): Roughly 24” x 20” x 18” (610mm x 508mm x 457mm)
Usage Tips for Optimal Performance:
-
Temperature Control is Key: The enclosed chamber is a major advantage. Experiment with chamber temperatures to find the sweet spot for each filament you use. Preheating the chamber for an extended period before printing helps to reduce warping.
-
Bed Adhesion Matters: Clean the build plate regularly with isopropyl alcohol. Consider using adhesion enhancers like glue stick, hairspray, or specialized build plate surfaces depending on the material. Leveling the bed meticulously is essential.
-
Calibrate Extruder Steps: Ensuring the extruder pushes the correct amount of filament is crucial for accurate prints. There are plenty of resources online that guide you through extruder calibration.
-
Dial in Retraction Settings: Retraction settings control how the printer pulls back filament to prevent stringing and oozing. Experiment with different retraction distances and speeds to find the optimal settings for each material.
-
Fan Control is Your Friend: Use cooling strategically. Some materials like PLA benefit from significant cooling, while others like ABS need very little. Experiment with fan settings to achieve the best surface finish and dimensional accuracy.
-
Consider Upgrading Nozzles: While the standard 0.5mm nozzle is versatile, experimenting with smaller nozzles can improve detail, and larger nozzles can speed up print times for less detailed objects.
-
Don’t Neglect Maintenance: Regularly lubricate the lead screws and bearings. Check the belts for proper tension. Clean the nozzle periodically to prevent clogs.
Strengths of the Airwolf 3D Axiom:
-
Material Versatility: The enclosed chamber and high-temperature bed make it capable of printing a wide range of materials, including PLA, ABS, PETG, nylon, polycarbonate, and even some flexible filaments.
-
Consistent Print Quality: The stable frame and enclosed chamber contribute to reliable and repeatable print quality.
-
Professional-Grade Construction: The Axiom is built to last, with a robust frame and quality components.
-
Large Build Volume: The build volume is suitable for many applications, allowing you to print larger parts in a single run.
Potential Drawbacks:
-
Price: It’s a professional-grade machine, and its price reflects that.
-
Learning Curve: While the Axiom is relatively user-friendly, mastering all its features and settings takes time and effort.
-
Weight and Size: It’s a substantial machine that requires a dedicated space.
In conclusion: The Airwolf 3D Axiom is a capable and versatile 3D printer that excels at printing a wide range of materials. Its enclosed build chamber, heated bed, and robust construction make it a reliable choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts. While it comes with a higher price tag, the Axiom delivers on performance and print quality.
Rating Breakdown (Out of 10):
- Print Quality: 9
- Build Volume: 8
- Printing Speed: 7
- Material Compatibility: 9
- Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 8
- Reliability: 8
- Ease of Use: 7
- Firmware and Software: 7
- Connectivity Options: 7
- Build Quality & Durability: 9
- Noise Level: 6
- Maintenance Requirements: 7
- Customer Support: 7
- Upgradeability: 6
- Price to Performance Ratio: 7
Average Score: 7.47
Written by Alex
← Back to blog