Large Format 3D Printers
Large format 3D printers are designed to produce parts, prototypes, models, tooling and other objects that exceed the build volume of standard desktop 3D printers. Larger build areas allow users to produce bigger components in fewer pieces, reducing the need to split models, assemble multiple sections, or outsource oversized parts.
Our large format 3D printers include systems ranging from large-scale desktop machines to professional and industrial platforms with substantially larger build volumes. Depending on the printer, technologies may include FFF/FDM filament extrusion, FGF (Fused Granulate Fabrication) or pellet extrusion, multiple extruders, independent dual extrusion (IDEX), high-temperature extrusion, enclosed or heated build environments, automated calibration, and support for engineering-grade materials.
Why Use a Large Format 3D Printer?
Print Larger Parts:
A larger build volume allows oversized components, prototypes, models and tooling to be produced as a single part or with fewer individual sections.
Reduce Assembly:
Printing larger components in fewer pieces can reduce bonding, fastening, alignment and post-processing requirements.
Create Full-Scale Prototypes:
Large format printing is useful for producing full-size product prototypes, architectural models, automotive components, industrial equipment mockups and other large objects.
Produce Large Tooling and Fixtures:
Large-format 3D printers can produce jigs, fixtures, patterns, molds, forming tools and other manufacturing aids without requiring traditional machining or fabrication for every application.
Choose the Right Material:
Large format printers are available with a range of extrusion technologies, temperatures, build environments and material capabilities. Depending on the system, compatible materials may include PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, nylon, polycarbonate, carbon-fibre-reinforced materials, engineering polymers, recycled materials and other specialized compounds.
Large Format 3D Printing Applications
Prototyping and Product Development:
Produce large-scale prototypes and design models without dividing them into numerous smaller sections.
Manufacturing and Tooling:
Create jigs, fixtures, assembly aids, patterns, molds and other production tools directly from digital designs.
Architectural and Display Models:
Print large presentation models, sculptures, props, displays and other objects where scale is an important part of the finished product.
Automotive and Industrial Applications:
Large build volumes make it possible to produce oversized components, equipment prototypes, replacement parts and specialized tooling.
Production Parts:
Large-format 3D printing can be used for low-volume production of large components where traditional manufacturing methods may be slower or more expensive.
Choosing a Large Format 3D Printer
Build volume is only one consideration when selecting a large format 3D printer. Consider the actual dimensions of the parts you need to produce, as well as print or deposition speed, material compatibility, nozzle or extrusion temperature, build plate temperature, chamber conditions, extrusion technology and the level of automation required.
For particularly large parts, print speed and material cost can have a significant effect on production time and operating costs. FGF and pellet-based systems can offer very high material deposition rates and may provide access to materials in granulate form, while filament-based systems can offer greater flexibility for smaller parts and more detailed applications.
A printer with a larger build volume is not automatically the best choice if the parts being produced do not require the additional capacity. Consider the size, material, production volume, required surface finish and intended application of your parts when selecting a system.
Large Format 3D Printers from 3D Printing Canada
3D Printing Canada supplies large-scale 3D printers for businesses, manufacturers, engineers, designers, educators and professional users across Canada. Our selection includes large-format systems for prototyping, tooling, production, modelling and other applications where standard build volumes are not enough.
If you're unsure how much build volume you actually need, or whether a filament or pellet-based system is better suited to your application, our product specialists can help compare printer dimensions, material capabilities, production requirements and application needs to find the right large format 3D printing system.