Because Rectangles are Better: German RepRap’s New X350 3D Printer Optimizes Build Space

One of Germany’s leading manufacturers of professional and industrial-grade FFF 3D printers, German RepRap, has recently announced the launch of its latest product, the X350 printer. With this release, the ambitious Feldkirchen-based company is adding to its range of commercial 3D printers, like the X1000, X400, Neo and Protos.

The X350 has quite a few unique features that could distinguish it from other FFF printers in the same category. It claims that “there is no 3D printer available with a more optimized print space compared to its size.” This is because it has a rectangular build platform, as opposed to a traditionally square one, which optimizes the accommodation of 3D models, since most do not have a square footprint.  This means that designers have the added bonus of being able to utilize the extra length in one dimension to fit their models. [rectangular build volume for 

Its 3-point mounted print bed allows a tool-free calibration that reduces the setup time to just a few minutes. Further, continuing with the trend of remotely operated 3D printers, German RepRap’s new integrated web interface allows you to 3D print via WLAN or LAN using any standard web browser. Combined with the Simplify3D all-in-one printing software, it provides users with a seamless 3D printing experience that’s rather easy to use.

Thomas Liratsch, the company’s recently appointed managing director in charge of sales and marketing, explains what the X350 brings in saying, “The X350 closes the gap between the NEO and the X400. It offers the best usage of print area due to the rectangular print bed.”  It slots right in between the build volumes of the X400 (at 400 x 400 x 350mm) and the NEO (at 150 x 150 x 150mm) and can use as wide a range of filaments as the X400.  The complete specifications are listed below:

• Print volume 350 x 200 x 210 mm / 13,8 x 7,9 x 8,3 inches
• Layer thickness minimum 0.2 mm
• Print speed 10 – 150 mm/s
• Travel speed 10 – 300 mm/s
• Print bed 3 Point, heated
• Materials PLA, ABS, PS, PVA, PP, Laybrick, Laywood, etc.
• Outer dimensions/ weight 600 x 444 x 517 mm / 23,6 x 17,5 x 20,4 inches/ 28 kg

As part of their global marketing plan, beginning with the US, the X350 will be on display at the Rapid Fair at Long Beach, California between May 18 – 21. With an introductory price of €2499.00 running until 30th June, 2015, it is available for pre-order and will be shipping in 4 – 7 weeks.

This launch follows their recent tie-in with Florida-based 3DChimera as their first value-added reseller in the US market and signals their intent on exporting their brand of robust Made-in-Germany 3D printers globally.