UltiMaker S7 3D Printer Overview: one of the best gets even better

Overview of Ultimaker S7

The Ultimaker S7 3D printer emerges as the latest iteration in Ultimaker's lineup, seemingly continuing the tradition established by its predecessor, the S5. At first glance, the S7 maintains many of the S5's characteristics, such as build volume and compatibility with a range of print cores. However, upon closer inspection, the S7 introduces a series of enhancements aimed at refining the user experience and printing efficiency.

Technical Specifications

The S7 supports dual extrusion and utilizes a Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) system. It is compatible with Ultimaker's S line print cores, enabling users to work with a variety of materials including build, water-soluble, and abrasive materials. It boasts a build volume of 330 x 240 x 300 mm. Noteworthy is its adoption of a PEI-coated flexible build plate, a debut feature for Ultimaker printers. Additionally, the machine includes a 1080p camera for enhanced monitoring, improved connectivity options supporting both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks, and traditional USB and Ethernet connections for versatile file handling.

Notable Features and Innovations

The Ultimaker S7 distinguishes itself through several key innovations. One significant addition is the integrated air manager, designed to filter out up to 95% of ultrafine particles, making it more suitable for office environments by maintaining cleaner air. The design also incorporates a more efficient door mechanism, contributing to better temperature control within the build area, which is crucial for printing with materials prone to warping or deformation.

PEI-Coated Flexible Build Plate

A standout feature of the S7 is its PEI-coated flexible build plate, facilitating excellent first layer adhesion and easy removal of completed prints, mitigating the need for adhesive aids or scrapers. This build plate is secured in place with magnets and alignment pins, offering a user-friendly solution for handling and maintenance. The transition to inductive sensors from capacitive ones for bed leveling further exemplifies Ultimaker’s commitment to precision and reliability in the printing process.

Enhancements for Reliability

Significant improvements have been made to the printing process itself, including a redesigned fan to reduce issues such as stringing and the introduction of a flood detection sensor within the print head. These features aim to prevent common 3D printing issues, ensuring smoother operations and reducing the risk of damage to the printer. Moreover, the S7 maintains compatibility with the Ultimaker S5 Material Station, allowing for an expanded capacity for material handling and storage.

Conclusion

The Ultimaker S7 represents an evolutionary step in Ultimaker's 3D printer offerings, refining and building upon the strengths of the S5 model. By incorporating a variety of user-friendly features and technological enhancements, the S7 aims to cater to both experienced users and newcomers to 3D printing, looking for a reliable, high-quality printing experience.