Join Us at Fakuma 2024 in Friedrichshafen, Germany!

piocreat3d on September 2, 2024

PioCreat is excited to announce its participation in Fakuma 2024, the world’s leading trade fair for industrial plastics processing. The event will take place from October 15 to 19, 2024 at Messe Friedrichshafen. Fakuma is a premier global platform where 1,636 exhibitors will present their international range of products and services, focusing on the big goals of greater efficiency and sustainability in plastics technologies.

At Fakuma 2024, PioCreat will highlight its innovative solutions in the realm of Fused Granulate Fabrication (FGF) 3D printing. Our advanced technology leverages plastic pellets and shredded recycled plastic, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative for additive manufacturing. By using these cost-effective materials, our Pellet 3D Printing solutions not only promote sustainability but also help businesses significantly reduce material costs.

Visit us at Booth HALL FO-09 to explore our latest innovations:

G5Ultra Pellet 3D Printer: This desktop model boasts a built volume of 500×500×400mm and is designed for high-speed production using thermoplastic pellet feedstocks. Key features include a nozzle temperature of up to 420℃, rapid hot bed heating to 120℃, and a screw extruder design that supports a wide range of materials. The G5Ultra is perfect for educational research, design studios, prototyping, and more.
G12 Pellet 3D Printer: This large-scale printer offers a built volume of 1200×1000×1000mm and is tailored for creating sizable patterns, molds, tooling, jigs, fixtures, batch production runs, and full-scale prototypes. The G12 is transforming industries such as manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and art and furniture design.

Schedule a Meeting !

Join us at Fakuma 2024 to discover how PioCreat’s sustainable 3D printing innovations can help you achieve greater efficiency and unlock new possibilities in your projects. We look forward to meeting you at Booth HALL FO-09! For products inquiries or to schedule a meeting during Fakuma 2024, welcome to contact email info@piocreat3d.com.

Piocreat’s Formnext SOUTH CHINA 2024: New Product Launches and Innovative Technologies

piocreat3d on August 30, 2024

Piocreat is thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of our participation at Formnext SOUTH CHINA 2024! From August 28th to 30th, 2024, we had the privilege of showcasing our latest innovations at the Shenzhen International Convention and Exhibition Center, Booth C194. The event was a tremendous success, and we are excited to share the highlights with you!

Highlights from Booth C194

Dental 3D Printing Solutions

At Formnext SOUTH CHINA 2024, Piocreat’s booth was a hub of activity, with our cutting-edge dental 3D printing solutions capturing the attention of industry professionals:

DJ89 PLUS Resin 3D Printer: This advanced printer, designed specifically for dental applications, features an integral light source that ensures 90% light uniformity. With an 8K 10.3″ LCD, 29μm pixel size, heating chamber, automatic feeding, and a stable Z-axis, the DJ89 PLUS delivers precise, high-quality dental models efficiently and cost-effectively.
D158 Compact DLP 3D Printer: Perfect for dental labs, orthodontics, and practices, the D158 offers precision and reliability in a compact design. Key features include an automatic lifting cover, 62μm pixel size, high-speed release film, and a stable Z-axis structure, making it an ideal choice for dental professionals seeking simplicity and accuracy.
UV02 Post-Processing Tool: Designed specifically for professional dental resins, the UV02 offers controlled light for perfect curing in just 1-5 minutes, ensuring top-notch results for dental applications.

Innovative Large-Scale 3D Printing Solutions

In addition to our dental solutions, Piocreat also showcased our large-scale 3D printing capabilities:

G12 Pellet 3D Printer: This powerful machine boasts a massive 1200*1000*1000mm build size, with a 450°C nozzle, 120°C rapid hot bed heating, high flow screw extrusion, and a robust servo motor. The G12 is designed to handle large-format printing projects with precision and efficiency.

Exciting New Product Launch

One of the most anticipated moments at Formnext SOUTH CHINA 2024 was Piocreat’s new product launch. We proudly introduced the Heavily Upgraded G5Ultra Pellet 3D Printer—an advanced desktop industrial production system. This new model features significant enhancements, including:

Intelligent Laser Ranging with 64-Point Leveling Technology: Replacing the CR Touch, this new system ensures precise leveling for improved print quality.
High-Speed Motors: The upgraded motors significantly boost printing speed, making the G5Ultra faster and more efficient than ever before.
High Precision Guide Rails: These new rails provide increased stability during printing, resulting in higher quality output.
Upgraded Slicing Software: Our slicing software continues to evolve, offering better performance and more user-friendly features.

Looking Forward

Formnext SOUTH CHINA 2024 was a remarkable platform for Piocreat to connect with industry leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts. We are proud of the progress we’ve made and are excited to continue pushing the boundaries of 3D printing technology. Thank you to everyone who visited our booth and made this event such a success!

Stay tuned for more exciting developments from Piocreat as we continue to innovate and lead in the world of 3D printing.

For more information about our products and upcoming events, visit our website www.piocreat3d.com. Let’s shape the future of 3D printing together!

PioCreat to Showcase Innovations at Formnext SOUTH CHINA 2024

piocreat3d on August 13, 2024

We are excited to announce that PioCreat 3D will be attending Formnext SOUTH CHINA 2024 in Shenzhen, bringing our latest advancements in 3D printing technology to the forefront of the industry. This event is set to be one of the most significant gatherings in the additive manufacturing sector, and we are thrilled to be a part of it!

Join us at booth C194, where we will be showcasing our cutting-edge 3D printing solutions designed to push the boundaries of innovation and efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the industry, this event is a must-attend to see the latest technologies that are shaping the future of manufacturing.

💼 About Formnext SOUTH CHINA 2024 💼

Formnext Shenzhen Exhibition inherits the successful concept of Formnext Frankfurt Exhibition, making full use of the huge publicity network and rich exhibition experience of Frankfurt Exhibition Group to bring a comprehensive and high-quality audience group to the exhibition, helping exhibitors to expand vast business opportunities.

The exhibition covers the entire 3D printing industry chain display, including high-performance materials, innovative additive solutions, additive equipment, sintering and post-processing technology, testing equipment and other cutting-edge technologies and equipment, from raw materials to finished products, from design to post-processing, committed to capturing market trends for the industry and broadening the future of high-end manufacturing.

Mark Your Calendars!

Don’t miss the chance to connect with PioCreat 3D and explore how our innovations can help you stay ahead in the competitive landscape of additive manufacturing. We look forward to meeting you at Formnext SOUTH CHINA 2024, booth C194!

For more information and updates, visit www.piocreat3d.com. Let’s shape the future of 3D printing together!

3D Printing Innovations at the Paris 2024 Olympics: Unexpected Uses

piocreat3d on August 7, 2024

The Paris 2024 Olympics are set to showcase not only athletic excellence but also cutting-edge technological advancements, including the innovative use of 3D printing. From creating the world’s first 3D printed skatepark to pioneering infrastructure projects, 3D printing is playing an unexpected yet pivotal role in shaping the future of the Games. In this blog, we explore three groundbreaking applications of 3D printing at the Paris 2024 Olympics, highlighting how this technology is pushing the boundaries of design, construction, and transportation.

3D Printed Skatepark at Paris 2024 Olympics

One of the most exciting developments for the Paris 2024 Olympics is the introduction of the world’s first 3D printed skatepark. This remarkable structure, created by the construction company Saint-Gobain, exemplifies the versatility and potential of 3D printing. Located at Esplanade de Paris La Défense, the 400m² skatepark opened on July 18th and is designed to embody the inclusive spirit of the Games.

(Image Credit: Saint-Gobain Weber Beamix)

The skatepark was constructed using large-format 3D printing technology, which allowed for the precise manufacturing of eight concrete modules. These include two launchers, an A-Frame, a volcano, a double volcano, and three benches, all of which were custom-designed and printed at Saint-Gobain Weber Beamix’s facility in Eindhoven. The project involved collaboration with various artists, construction experts, and skateboarder Vincent Matheron to ensure that the park meets the needs of skaters of all skill levels.

Peter Paul Cornelissen, Weber Beamix’s 3D Business Unit Manager, emphasized the benefits of using 3D printing in this project, such as reducing the environmental footprint, enhancing creativity, speeding up production times, and allowing for greater design freedom. The skatepark’s design also includes features for wheelchair users, developed with input from the non-profit organization Pratikable, making it a truly inclusive space.

3D Printed Footbridge at Paris 2024 Olympics

In addition to the skatepark, the Paris 2024 Olympics will feature another groundbreaking structure: a 3D printed pedestrian footbridge. Commissioned by France’s Plaine Commune Grand Paris and designed by XtreeE, this 40-meter bridge is set to become a landmark in architectural innovation and sustainable construction.

(Image Credit: XTreeE)

This footbridge will be the first in Paris to utilize a fully 3D printed concrete load-bearing architecture, demonstrating the potential of 3D printing to revolutionize urban landscapes. By integrating cutting-edge technology with sophisticated design, the bridge represents a significant shift towards Industry 4.0, where digital precision and eco-friendly materials take center stage.

XtreeE’s approach to the project underscores the environmental advantages of 3D printing. The technology allows for a 60% reduction in concrete usage compared to traditional construction methods, thereby minimizing waste and lowering the carbon footprint. Components for the bridge are manufactured in controlled settings and then quickly assembled on-site, which enhances efficiency and further reduces environmental impact.

This initiative is part of a broader trend in urban development where additive manufacturing is increasingly being adopted. Cities like Amsterdam, with its first 3D printed bridge, and Dubai, which aims to 3D print 25% of its buildings by 2030, are leading the way. The use of 3D printing in these projects offers design flexibility, reduced material usage, and significant cost savings, making it an attractive option for sustainable architecture.

3D-Printed Autonomous Ferry

Another innovative use of 3D printing for the Paris 2024 Olympics is the development of a 3D-printed autonomous ferry. This self-driving, electric watercraft, created by the collective Roboat, Holland Shipyards Group, and Sequana Développement, is designed to transport athletes and visitors to and from the Olympic venues in an environmentally friendly manner.

(Image Credit: Roboat)

The ferry, which may be the largest 3D-printed autonomous ferry ever created, measures 9 by 3.90 meters and features a 3D-printed hull made from recycled materials. The ferry’s autonomous capabilities, combined with its electric propulsion system, make it a sustainable transportation option for the Games.

The consortium behind the ferry envisions it as a key part of the transportation network for the Paris 2024 Olympics. The ferry’s design allows it to automatically dock, moor, and charge wirelessly, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This technology leverages advancements in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, positioning the ferry as a forward-thinking solution for urban mobility.

This project aligns with the broader goals of the Paris 2024 Olympics to promote sustainability and innovation. By incorporating 3D printing into the construction of the ferry, the collective not only showcases the potential of additive manufacturing in the maritime sector but also highlights the importance of environmentally responsible solutions in large-scale events.

Large Scale 3D Printer Recommendations

To achieve these ambitious projects, large scale 3D printers are essential. Here are two top recommendations for large-format 3D printing:

G12 Pellet 3D Printer

Printing Size: 1200×1000×1000mm
Features:
- Large-scale pellet extrusion
- Nozzle temperature up to 450℃
- Rapid heating of the hot bed up to 120℃
- High Flow Screw Extrusion
- Powerful Servo Motor

The G12 Pellet 3D Printer is a robust, large-format printer capable of producing medium-to-large parts with high precision. Its versatility and performance make it ideal for projects like the 3D printed skatepark and other large-scale constructions.

G40 Pellet 3D Printer

Printing Size: 3725×2500×1330mm
Features:
- Large working space
- Workbench design
- CNC five-axis head
- High flow screw extrusion design

The G40 Pellet 3D Printer, PioCreat’s largest industrial printer, is a versatile machine that integrates CNC five-axis manufacturing, making it suitable for complex, large-scale projects such as the 3D printed footbridge. Its capability to handle large volumes and intricate designs makes it a top choice for ambitious architectural and industrial applications.

Wrapping Up

The Paris 2024 Olympics are not just a showcase of athletic prowess but also a platform for technological innovation. The unexpected uses of 3D printing at the Games, from creating a world-first 3D printed skatepark to a revolutionary pedestrian footbridge and a sustainable autonomous ferry, highlight the transformative potential of this technology. As 3D printing continues to evolve, its applications in large-scale projects like these will undoubtedly expand, offering new opportunities for sustainable and innovative construction.

What is the Difference Between DLP and LCD Resin 3D Printers?

piocreat3d on August 6, 2024

Resin 3D printing has revolutionized industries from dentistry to jewelry-making, with two of the most popular methods being DLP (Digital Light Processing) and LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 3D printing. Both techniques produce high-quality, detailed prints using light to cure resin, but they differ in how they project light, the speed of curing, and overall print quality. In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between DLP and LCD resin 3D printers, helping you understand which might be the best choice for your 3D printing needs.

What is DLP 3D Printing?

DLP (Digital Light Processing) 3D printing is a technology that uses a digital projector to flash an image of an entire layer onto a vat of liquid resin. The projector shines light through a digital screen, which selectively cures specific areas of the resin, hardening it layer by layer until the object is fully printed.

In DLP printing, the light source, often a powerful LED or UV projector, shines through a digital micromirror device (DMD) that reflects light into a pattern of pixels. This pattern hardens the resin in one entire layer at a time, allowing for faster printing compared to other methods like stereolithography (SLA), which cures resin point by point.

What is LCD 3D Printing?

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) 3D printing, also known as MSLA (Masked Stereolithography), is a type of resin printing that uses an LCD screen to mask a light source and project it onto the resin. In this process, an array of LEDs shines light through an LCD panel, which selectively blocks or lets the light pass through, curing the resin in the exposed areas.

LCD printers often use a matrix of UV LEDs to ensure even light distribution across the build plate. The LCD panel acts as a mask, revealing the image of each layer that needs to be cured. While LCD 3D printers operate similarly to DLP printers, the primary difference lies in the way the light is projected and how the curing process is managed.

DLP vs LCD Resin 3D Printer: 6 Key Differences

Now that we understand the basics of DLP and LCD resin 3D printing, let’s dive into the six key differences that set these technologies apart.

1. Light Projection

DLP:
In DLP printing, the light source projects through a digital micromirror device, reflecting light across the entire layer at once. The projector emits light in the form of pixels, and the resolution is determined by the projector’s pixel size. DLP printers project light in an even and consistent manner, ensuring that each layer is cured with great precision.

LCD:
LCD 3D printers use a matrix of UV LEDs as the light source. The light passes through an LCD screen, which masks certain areas to create the desired shape for each layer. While the overall mechanism is similar to DLP, the light is dispersed through individual pixels on the LCD screen, which can sometimes lead to inconsistencies in light distribution if not properly calibrated.

Key Difference:
DLP projects light in a more uniform manner, while LCD printers rely on individual pixels, which can sometimes create variances in how the light is projected

2. Curing Process

DLP:
DLP printers use a high-intensity projector to cure entire layers of resin simultaneously, making the curing process faster. Since the entire layer is flashed at once, this reduces the time needed to complete each layer, especially when printing large objects.

LCD:
In LCD 3D printing, the UV light shines through the liquid crystal display, which blocks certain areas to control the curing process. This method also cures an entire layer at once, but the curing can sometimes take longer compared to DLP due to lower light intensity and the nature of the LCD screen.

Key Difference:
While both technologies cure entire layers simultaneously, DLP tends to have faster curing times due to its more focused and intense light projection.

3. Resolution

DLP:
The resolution of a DLP printer is determined by the pixel size of the projector. DLP printers generally have a fixed pixel size, which means that the smaller the build area, the higher the resolution. As the build area increases, the pixels are stretched, which can lead to a reduction in resolution.

LCD:
LCD printers achieve resolution based on the number of pixels on the LCD screen. Higher pixel density means better resolution. Since the LCD screens have fixed pixel sizes, the resolution remains consistent across the entire build area, making LCD printers more reliable for producing high-resolution prints, especially for smaller objects.

Key Difference:
DLP resolution can vary based on the build area, while LCD printers typically maintain consistent resolution regardless of the build size.

4. Print Quality

DLP:
DLP 3D printers are known for their ability to produce extremely detailed prints with smooth surfaces. However, the resolution tends to decrease with larger build areas, meaning small objects have better quality than large objects.

LCD:
LCD printers also produce high-quality prints, especially with newer models that have high pixel densities. However, since the LCD method relies on the backlighting of individual pixels, there can be slight pixelation visible on curved surfaces if the resolution is not high enough.

Key Difference:
Both DLP and LCD printers offer excellent print quality, but DLP printers are often better suited for fine, small-scale details, whereas LCD printers provide more consistent quality over larger areas.

5. Speed and Throughput

DLP:
DLP printers can be faster because they cure entire layers at once, and the light intensity from the projector is typically higher than that of an LCD printer. This makes DLP printers ideal for high-speed production environments where fast throughput is essential.

LCD:
LCD printers also cure entire layers simultaneously, but they may take slightly longer to cure each layer due to the lower light intensity compared to DLP. However, advancements in LCD technology have significantly improved speed, and high-end LCD printers can rival DLP in terms of throughput.

Key Difference:
DLP printers are generally faster, particularly for large prints, but modern LCD printers have improved to a point where speed differences are minimal.

6. Cost

DLP:
DLP 3D printers are generally more expensive due to the use of high-quality projectors and more complex optical systems. Maintenance and replacement parts, such as the DMD chips, can also add to the overall cost of operating a DLP printer.

LCD:
LCD 3D printers are typically more affordable, both in terms of initial investment and maintenance. The technology is simpler, and LCD screens are cheaper to replace than DLP projectors. This makes LCD printers an attractive option for hobbyists, small businesses, and budget-conscious users.

Key Difference:
DLP printers are more expensive, offering high performance at a higher cost, while LCD printers provide a more budget-friendly option with slightly lower performance.

Conclusion

When comparing DLP and LCD resin 3D printers, both technologies offer excellent options for producing high-quality, detailed prints. DLP printers are known for their speed, uniform light projection, and ability to handle fine details, making them ideal for professional applications requiring fast throughput and high precision. On the other hand, LCD printers offer a more cost-effective solution with consistent resolution across the build area, making them a great choice for those looking to balance quality and affordability.

Ultimately, the decision between DLP and LCD 3D printers will depend on your specific needs, whether it’s the need for speed, precision, or cost-efficiency. Both technologies continue to evolve, with improvements in light projection, resolution, and cost, ensuring that users in various industries can find a 3D printing solution that meets their requirements.

G12 Common Problem FAQ

piocreat3d on August 5, 2024

Leveling Issue

1. Large error after auto leveling

Check that the ground on which the machine is installed is level, we can adjust the four wheels at the bottom.
Take out the glass, re-fix the heating plate at the bottom. Then reinstall the glass and check that the glass is level.
The heights of the left and right sides of the Z-axis are inconsistent, need to adjust the Z-axis lead screws.

2. Nozzle does not print after leveling

Check the ‘home’ function is normal, then recalibrate the gap between the origin and the nozzle through the Z-offset function.
Check the printing file is normal, slice it again.

Extruder Issue

1. Pellets stuck

Check the setting temperature of the extruder 1 and extruder 2 is corresponding to the pellets need. Extruder 1 is the lower end temperature, extruder 2 is the upper end temperature. Usually the lower end temperature is 5-10°C higher than the upper end.
Open the feed transition board on the side to see the extrude screw is spinning. If not, that means the extrude screw and motor coupling are loose. If yes, that maybe the pellets in the extrude screw are stuck, need to clean the extrude screw.

2. Extruder motor shaking

Check the extruder motor cable is loose or poor contact.
Driver dial incorrect.

3. Extruder motor not working.

If not working when printing, maybe the Creality print software version is old, needto update the software or use Simplify and Cura.
Check the extruder motor cable on the mainboard is loose.
If cable is good, need to change a new motor.

Printing Issue

1. Printed model warping

Check the model contact area, if the area is small, we advise to add a base under the model or rotate the model in the software.
The nozzle far from the platform, need to adjust the Z-offset.
Some special materials like: PP&PC, they are prone to warping and have bad adhesion, need to smear special platform glue on the platform before printing.
Some materials need a constant temperature environment, we advise you to close all the doors before printing.

2. The surface texture of the printed model is obvious

Check the nozzle temperature is over high, need to increase the temperature.
Check if there is overlapping between the layers, if yes, need to decrease the extrude flow.
The printing speed is too fast. We can decrease the printing speed on the machine to 80-90.

3. Printed model layer shift

Check is left-right layer shift or front-back layer shift first:1)If is left-right layer shift, need to check the X-axis timing belts and timing pulley are loose.2)If is front-back layer shift, need to check the Y-axis belts and reduction gears are fixed well.
If models are layer shift at same height, check the Z-axis at that height is slippage or poor movement.

4. Printed model incomplete

The supports number are not enough, need to add more supports.
If the model wall thickness is less than 2mm, the printing effect will be bad, ensure the wall thickness is over 2mm.
Maybe the nozzle temperature is too low, makes extrude not enough.

5. Printed model keeps tilting

Check the model is tilted forwards to X-axis or Y-axis. If tilted forwards to X-axis, that means the X-axis SSD has problem. If tilted forwards to Y-axis, that means Y-axis SSD has problem.

6. Printed model size deviation

Test the XYZ axis real size first. If which axis real size is smaller than design size, we need to increase that axis motor step value. If which axis real size is larger than design size, we need to decrease that axis motor step value.

Z-axis abnormal

1. Z-axis keep rising

Zero first, check the z-axis is working normal.
Check the CR-touch light color. If is red, that means CR-touch abnormal, need to reinstall the cable and reboot the machine. If is purple, that means normal. If no light, that means CR-touch broken, need to change a new one.

2. Z-axis shaking and does not rise

Check the motor cable is loose.
Check the driver cable is normal.

Pellets can't be sucked up

1. Pellets can’t be sucked up when feeding

Check the air pump is working normal.
Check the air pressure on the air pressure gauge is over 0.8Mpa.
Check the hopper cover is install good, otherwise there will be air leakage.

2. Pellets not sucked enough when feeding

Check if the air pressure of the air pump is not enough, need to change a more lager power air pump.
Check if the air tube is air leaking.

U disk reading issue

1. Suspected U disk broken

Change a new one to check is the U disk problem or the interface problem.
Try to format the U disk and insert again.

2. No reaction after insert U disk or can’t find the files

Format the U disk.

Mainboard\Display Screen\Power Issue (Professionals Only)

1. Mainboard have problem.

Send it to our aftersales engineer to check.

2. Display screen blurred\black\white\ twinkle

Check the display screen cable, remove high frequency interference sources.

3. Suspected power supply problem

Check the voltage switch is dial to your area voltage range. (110V\220V)
Check the cable is normal.
Contact with us.

Components broken\Send wrong\Missing Send

Contact with our aftersales engineer.

Pellets maintenance

Dry pellets: If open the pellets package for a long time, we need to use a drying box to dry half an hour.
Pellets recycle：After printing finish, If it is not printed for more than 3 days, it is recommended to recycle the pellets in the hopper in time.

For more information about Piocreat 3D printer, welcome to explore our official website www.piocreat3d.com.