Published on Fri Jun 30 2023 06:25:24 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

The BCN3D Epsilon W50: A Deep Dive into Professional Dual-Extrusion 3D Printing

The BCN3D Epsilon W50 has carved a name for itself in the professional 3D printing market, offering a robust platform for producing functional prototypes, end-use parts, and small-batch manufacturing. Its standout feature? Independent Dual Extrusion (IDEX) technology, enabling complex geometries and multi-material prints with ease. Let’s explore what makes this printer tick.

Detailed Specifications

Here’s a breakdown of the Epsilon W50’s technical specifications:

Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) / Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)
Build Volume: 420 x 300 x 400 mm (16.5 x 11.8 x 15.7 inches)
Layer Resolution: 50 - 300 microns (0.05 - 0.3 mm)
Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (standard); options for 0.6 mm, 0.8 mm available
Filament Diameter: 2.85 mm
Supported Materials: PLA, ABS, PET-G, TPU, Nylon, PP, PVA, HIPS, Composites (filled materials)
Heated Bed Temperature: Up to 120°C
Hot End Temperature: Up to 300°C
Print Speed: Up to 200 mm/s (depending on material)
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
User Interface: 5” Touchscreen
Chamber: Fully Enclosed and Heated (up to 60°C)
Power Requirements: 220-240V AC, 50-60Hz, 600W (max)
Dimensions: 690 x 530 x 710 mm (27.2 x 20.9 x 28 inches)
Weight: 58 kg (128 lbs)

Understanding IDEX Technology

The Epsilon W50’s defining characteristic is its Independent Dual Extrusion (IDEX) system. This means each print head operates independently along the X-axis. This offers several key advantages:

Multi-Material Printing: Combine different materials in a single print. Imagine a rigid ABS part with flexible TPU elements for hinges or grips.
Support Material Printing: Utilize soluble support materials like PVA or HIPS for complex overhangs and internal cavities. This simplifies post-processing and yields cleaner results.
Duplication Mode: Print two identical parts simultaneously, doubling your output.
Mirror Mode: Print two mirrored parts simultaneously, ideal for symmetrical designs.
Avoidance of oozing: Since the inactive nozzle retracts away from the print area, oozing and filament drag are significantly reduced, resulting in cleaner parts with fewer defects.

Usage Tips for Optimal Performance

To get the most out of your BCN3D Epsilon W50, consider these tips:

Material Selection: Choose the right filament for your application. Understand the properties of each material (strength, flexibility, temperature resistance, chemical resistance) and select one that meets your requirements.
Slicing Software: BCN3D Cura is the recommended slicing software. It’s specifically configured for the Epsilon W50 and provides optimized profiles for various materials. Experiment with different settings (layer height, infill density, print speed) to fine-tune your prints.
Bed Adhesion: Ensuring proper bed adhesion is crucial. Clean the build plate with isopropyl alcohol before each print. Use brims or rafts when printing materials prone to warping, like ABS. A PEI sheet or similar flexible build surface can also greatly improve adhesion.
Chamber Temperature: When printing temperature-sensitive materials like ABS or Nylon, utilize the heated chamber to minimize warping and improve layer adhesion. Experiment with different chamber temperatures to find the optimal setting for your chosen filament.
Filament Storage: Store filaments in a dry environment to prevent moisture absorption. This is especially important for hygroscopic materials like Nylon and PVA. Use desiccant packs to maintain a low humidity level.
Nozzle Maintenance: Regularly clean your nozzles to prevent clogs. Cold pulls and nozzle cleaning filaments can be effective for removing stubborn debris. Consider replacing nozzles periodically, especially when printing abrasive materials like carbon fiber-filled filaments.
Firmware Updates: Keep your printer’s firmware up to date to benefit from the latest features, bug fixes, and performance improvements.
Leveling: Ensure the print bed is perfectly level before each print. The W50 features assisted leveling, but manual adjustments may still be necessary.
Material profiles: Leverage the BCN3D cloud services to import and update materials profiles for optimized print settings.

A Professional Tool

The BCN3D Epsilon W50 stands out for its IDEX technology, large build volume, and enclosed chamber. It’s a powerful tool for professionals seeking reliable and versatile 3D printing capabilities. Careful material selection, proper slicing settings, and regular maintenance are key to unlocking the printer’s full potential.