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Extruders

Introduction

Extruders are critical components in 3D printers that control the flow of filament into the hotend. They come in various designs, each with unique features and capabilities. This guide covers popular extruder options and their characteristics.

Types of Extruders

Bondtech LGX

Sherpa Mini

Sherpa Micro

  • Description: An even more compact version of the Sherpa, designed for ultra-lightweight applications
  • Key Features:
  • Extremely lightweight (under 50g)
  • Compact design
  • High precision
  • Low inertia
  • Best For:
  • Ultra-lightweight setups
  • High-speed printing
  • Small form factor printers
  • Purchase Options:
  • Bondtech Sherpa All Metal RIDGA V2 Set sold by West3d

Orbiter V2.5

LDO Smart Orbiter 3.0

  • Description: A brand new innovative all-in-one dual drive extruder with integrated electronics
  • Key Features:
  • Integrated electronics with Klipper compatibility
  • Pure plated copper heat-block with 72W ceramic heater
  • Bondtech CHT nozzle for high flow/weight ratio
  • Bi-metallic heat-break with extreme temperature gradient
  • Unique tensioning mechanism with elastic predefined tension levels
  • Frameless recessed fan for reduced weight
  • Large RNC coated dual drive gears with planetary reduction
  • Full aluminium housing with Delrin plastic gears
  • Double filament exit guide system for TPU printing
  • Overall weight: 175g
  • Smart Features:
  • Filament sensing and auto load/unload
  • RGB LED lit filament input
  • White LED hotend lighting
  • Internal temperature sensor
  • ESD and short circuit protection
  • Best For:
  • High-performance printing
  • TPU and flexible materials
  • Smart printer setups
  • Direct drive configurations
  • Purchase Options:
  • Purchase from Onetwo3d (UK)
  • Purchase From West3d (USA)

BMG Extruder

  • Description: A popular dual-drive extruder known for its reliability and versatility
  • Key Features:
  • 3:1 gear ratio
  • Dual drive gears for better filament grip
  • Works well with flexible materials
  • Available in both direct drive and Bowden configurations
  • Best For:
  • Flexible materials
  • High-precision printing
  • Both direct drive and Bowden setups

Titan Extruder

  • Description: E3D's compact and efficient extruder design
  • Key Features:
  • 3:1 gear ratio
  • Compact design
  • Good filament grip
  • Compatible with various hotends
  • Best For:
  • General purpose printing
  • Bowden setups
  • Entry-level upgrades

Hemera

  • Description: E3D's all-in-one direct drive solution
  • Key Features:
  • Integrated hotend and extruder
  • 3:1 gear ratio
  • Excellent filament grip
  • High-temperature capable
  • Best For:
  • Direct drive setups
  • High-temperature materials
  • Reliable performance

Clockwork

  • Description: A lightweight, high-performance extruder designed for Voron printers
  • Key Features:
  • Ultra-lightweight design
  • High gear ratio
  • Excellent filament grip
  • Modular design
  • Best For:
  • Voron printers
  • High-speed printing
  • Direct drive setups

Extruder Selection Guide

Factors to Consider

  1. Print Speed Requirements
  2. High-speed printing needs lightweight extruders

  3. Consider gear ratio for torque requirements

  4. Filament Types

  5. Flexible filaments need better grip

  6. Abrasive materials need hardened components

  7. Mounting Options

  8. Direct drive vs Bowden setup

  9. Available space and weight limitations

  10. Budget

  11. Entry-level vs premium options
  12. DIY vs pre-assembled
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