Published on Sat Nov 25 2023 06:39:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

The Raise3D E2CF: A Deep Dive into Industrial-Grade Carbon Fiber Printing

The Raise3D E2CF is a specialized 3D printer designed from the ground up for printing carbon fiber reinforced filaments. Stepping away from the general-purpose versatility of some other printers, the E2CF focuses on delivering reliable, high-quality prints with demanding composite materials. If your projects involve creating strong, lightweight parts for engineering applications, tooling, or functional prototypes, the E2CF is a printer worth serious consideration.

A Machine Purpose-Built for Composites

Unlike printers that merely can print with carbon fiber filled filaments, the E2CF is engineered to do so. This specialized approach is evident in every aspect of its design, from the hardened components to the optimized printing environment. This isn’t just a standard printer with a fancy nozzle; it’s a complete system.

Detailed Specifications:

Let’s delve into the E2CF’s technical specifications:

• Print Technology: Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)
• Build Volume: 330 x 240 x 240 mm (13 x 9.4 x 9.4 inches)
• Layer Resolution: 0.02 mm - 0.25 mm (20 - 250 microns)
• Print Head: Dual Extrusion (Independent Dual Extruders - IDEX)
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (hardened steel included) and 0.6 (carbon fiber-optimized included)
• Maximum Nozzle Temperature: 300°C (572°F)
• Heated Bed Temperature: 110°C (230°F)
• Print Speed: Up to 150 mm/s (depending on material)
• Supported Filaments: Carbon Fiber Reinforced PA (PA-CF), other engineering-grade filaments (PA, PC, ASA, ABS, PETG, PLA, TPU). Note that optimal performance is geared towards PA-CF.
• Filament Diameter: 1.75 mm
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
• Enclosure: Semi-enclosed chamber with air filter
• Power Requirements: 100-240V, 50/60Hz
• Dimensions: 620 x 590 x 760 mm (24.4 x 23.2 x 30 inches)
• Weight: 52 kg (114.6 lbs)
• Display: 7-inch touchscreen

Key Features that Set the E2CF Apart:

• Independent Dual Extrusion (IDEX): The E2CF’s IDEX system allows for independent control of each print head. This enables mirroring and duplication printing modes, significantly reducing printing time for multiple parts. It also facilitates the use of soluble support materials for complex geometries.
• Hardened Components: Printing with carbon fiber filaments is abrasive. The E2CF tackles this with hardened steel nozzles and filament feeding mechanisms, designed to withstand the wear and tear associated with these materials.
• Precision Temperature Control: Maintaining consistent temperatures is crucial for successful carbon fiber printing. The E2CF features precise temperature control for both the nozzle and the heated bed, ensuring optimal layer adhesion and minimal warping.
• Optimized Airflow: The semi-enclosed chamber and integrated air filter help maintain a stable printing environment and reduce fumes, especially important when working with engineering-grade filaments.
• RaiseCloud Integration: Raise3D’s cloud-based platform allows for remote monitoring, print management, and team collaboration.

Usage Tips for Carbon Fiber Printing with the E2CF:

• Filament Storage: Carbon fiber filaments are hygroscopic, meaning they readily absorb moisture from the air. Always store your filament in a dry environment (e.g., a sealed container with desiccant). Consider using a filament dryer, especially in humid climates.
• Nozzle Selection: The E2CF comes with both a 0.4 mm and a 0.6 mm hardened steel nozzle. The 0.6 mm nozzle is specifically optimized for carbon fiber filaments. Use this for the best results and to reduce clogging.
• Bed Adhesion: Carbon fiber filaments can be prone to warping. Experiment with different bed adhesion methods like using a glue stick or applying a PEI sheet. Ensure your bed is perfectly leveled. A brim or raft can significantly improve adhesion.
• Print Settings: Start with the recommended settings provided by Raise3D or the filament manufacturer. Gradually adjust parameters like printing temperature, speed, and fan settings to optimize print quality for your specific filament and application.
• Maintenance: Regularly clean the nozzle and check the filament feeding mechanism for wear and tear. Lubricate moving parts as needed.

Filament Evaluation (PA-CF recommended by Raise3D):

Let’s evaluate a typical PA-CF filament, focusing on the key attributes for this type of material:

• Print Quality (9/10): With proper settings, PA-CF can produce parts with excellent surface finish and dimensional accuracy. The carbon fiber adds rigidity, reducing sagging and improving overhang performance.
• Toughness (9/10): Carbon fiber reinforcement significantly enhances the toughness and impact resistance of PA. Parts printed with PA-CF are much less likely to break or crack under stress.
• Flexibility (3/10): PA-CF is not a flexible material. The carbon fiber makes it quite rigid. This is generally a desired characteristic for structural parts.
• Warping (6/10): While better than standard PA, PA-CF can still exhibit some warping, especially with large parts or without proper bed adhesion. Enclosure and heated bed are critical.
• Adhesion (7/10): Good bed adhesion is achievable with a heated bed, appropriate bed surface (PEI or glue stick), and proper leveling. Interlayer adhesion is typically excellent.
• Moisture Sensitivity (5/10): PA-CF is hygroscopic and must be stored dry to prevent printing issues.
• Color Range (3/10): PA-CF is typically available in a limited range of colors, often black or dark grey. The carbon fiber makes dyeing difficult.
• Temperature Range (8/10): PA-CF offers a decent temperature range with a glass transition temperature of between 140°C and 150°C depending on the exact formulation.
• Odor & Fumes (6/10): PA-CF can produce noticeable fumes during printing, so adequate ventilation or an air filter is recommended.
• Spool Winding Quality (8/10): A well-wound spool is essential to prevent tangling and print failures. Reputable filament manufacturers typically provide high-quality spool winding.

Average Filament Score: 6.4/10 (Important to note: This score is heavily influenced by the inherent properties of carbon fiber reinforced nylon. It’s not a “bad” score, but reflects the priorities of this material – strength and rigidity – over flexibility and color options.)

Printer Evaluation (Raise3D E2CF):

• Print Quality (9/10): The printer consistently delivers high-quality prints, especially with carbon fiber filaments, thanks to its precise temperature control and rigid frame.
• Build Volume (7/10): The build volume is adequate for many applications, but it is not the largest on the market.
• Printing Speed (7/10): It can print at reasonable speeds, but it is not the fastest printer available. The focus is on quality and reliability over pure speed.
• Material Compatibility (8/10): While optimized for PA-CF, it supports a range of engineering-grade filaments.
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling (8/10): The heated bed and automated leveling system make it easy to achieve good bed adhesion.
• Reliability (9/10): The E2CF is known for its reliability, thanks to its robust construction and high-quality components.
• Ease of Use (8/10): The touchscreen interface and user-friendly software make it relatively easy to operate, even for those new to 3D printing.
• Firmware and Software (9/10): The Raise3D ecosystem provides excellent software (ideaMaker) and regularly updated firmware.
• Connectivity Options (8/10): Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and USB provide a variety of connectivity options.
• Build Quality & Durability (10/10): The printer is built to last, with a sturdy frame and high-quality components.
• Noise Level (6/10): It is not the quietest printer, but the noise level is acceptable for most environments.
• Maintenance Requirements (7/10): Regular maintenance is required, but it is relatively straightforward.
• Customer Support (8/10): Raise3D is known for providing good customer support.
• Upgradeability (6/10): The printer is relatively closed, so upgradeability is limited.
• Price to Performance Ratio (8/10): It is a premium printer, but the performance and reliability justify the cost for many users.

Average Printer Score: 7.8/10

Conclusion:

The Raise3D E2CF is a specialized 3D printer that excels at printing carbon fiber reinforced filaments. Its robust construction, precise temperature control, and IDEX system make it a reliable and high-performing machine. While it is a premium printer, it offers excellent value for users who need to produce strong, lightweight parts for demanding applications. If you require consistent, high-quality carbon fiber prints, the E2CF is an investment that can pay off handsomely.

Written by Alex