8 3D Printers That Use 2.85mm Filament

3D printers can use various types of filaments, including ABS, PLA, and PVC, to mention a few. Now, filaments have two thickness capacities, 1.75mm and 3.0mm (actually 2.85mm). 3D printer manufacturers adopted the production of 3.0mm filaments from the plastic welding industry, which made melting devices with that diameter. 

Here are 8 of the best 3D printers that use the 2.85mm filament: 

1. Velleman K8200 3D Printer 
2. LulzBot KT-PR0051NA TAZ Workhorse 3D Printer 
3. LulzBot TAZ Pro 3D Printer 
4. Ultimaker S5 3D Printer 
5. Ultimaker 3 3D Printer 
6. Ultimaker 2+ Connect 3D Printer 
7. BCN3D Sigmax R19 Independent Dual Extrusion 3D Printer
8. BCN3D EPSILON W27 3D Printer 

In this article, I’ll discuss 3D printers compatible with 2.85mm filaments. These 3D printers usually utilize nozzles with wider diameters, as they have higher extrusion rates and allow for better control. Read on to learn what factors to consider when choosing an ideal printer for printing thick models. 

Velleman K8200 3D Printer

This aluminum-made 3D printer uses USB connectivity technology to print models and utilizes ABS, PLA, and plastic filaments that are 2.85 mm thick. It’s also an easy to assemble 3D printer that comes with a complete kit comprising aluminum profiles and is available on Amazon.

Since it’s a self-assembling printer, you can alter it according to your needs or preferences. Moreover, it is compatible with free RepRap software and firmware. You’ll not have problems with sticky prints, as the printer has a heated printing bed. 

Velleman 3D printer allows fast, precise, and reliable printing. Moreover, it can print both functional parts and consumer products. However, it can only print models in the size of 20cm x 20cm x 20cm (8in x 8in x 8in) at maximum. 

LulzBot KT-PR0051NA TAZ Workhorse 3D Printer

Manufactured by the reputable LulzBot TAZ Company, this high-end 3D printer is available on Amazon and offers superior printing quality and accuracy. It comes with preconfigured material profiles for an easy setup. Moreover, the print comprises a lightweight tool head design for printing high-quality models fast. 

An award-winning 3D printer, the LulzBot TAZ Workhorse features a strengthened design and an improved motion system. However, that doesn’t make this a complex machine to use. Conversely, this desktop 3D printer is simple to operate, not to mention reliable. Additionally, it boasts accurate and non-sticky print models. 

Since the LulzBot TAZ workhorse is a professional-grade printer, it utilizes high-quality filaments to print engineering-grade models. So, you can utilize 2.85mm filaments made from high-strength and high-heat materials. Moreover, its plated copper tool head is one of a kind, as it enables the printing of such filaments. 

LulzBot TAZ Pro 3D Printer

The pro version is another premium line of LulzBot TAZ 3D printers designed to print challenging and complex parts. The desktop 3D printer comprises an industrial-grade configuration and a reinforced steel frame, enabling printing of strengthened models. Additionally, the high-quality components and the printer’s design simplify 3D printing and prototyping. 

The LulzBot TAZ Pro 3D printer features a dual-extrusion head for accurate extrusion. Also, the hardened steel nozzles contain vertical actuation servos. You can print large items using this 3D printer, as it comprises a 280 x 280 x 285 mm (11 x 11 x 11.2 in) print area.

Your 3D printing process doesn’t have to be painstaking with this printer. Its filament flow and run-out sensors for both extruders will simplify your printing process. In addition, its 5-inch (12.7 cm) color LCD touchscreen and user-friendly feature set ensure that you experience high-end 3D printing. 

Ultimaker S5 3D Printer

A professional desktop 3D printer, Ultimaker S5 has a dual extrusion capability to produce multi-material industrial-grade parts. It features a simple setup comprising Cura software with preconfigured settings, ensuring that users can start using it immediately without experiencing any challenges. Moreover, the printer utilizes the innovative Print Core system, allowing you to switch hot ends during printing. 

Ultimaker S5 allows for printing of large models with a build volume of 320 x 240 x 300mm (12.6 x 9.45 x 11.8 in). In addition, it’s compatible with filaments made from various materials, including: 

• PLA 
• ABS  
• CPE 
• CPE+ 
• PVA 
• PP 
• PC 
• TPU 

Its filament flow sensor will automatically alert you when you run out of printing material. 

The premium 3D printer can utilize nozzles of various sizes (diameters) such as: 

• 0.25mm 
• 0.4mm 
• 0.6mm 
• 0.8mm 

It also allows for a layer thickness or resolution of 0.2mm. With the Ultimaker S5 3D printer, you’re assured of obtaining a perfect first layer, as it comprises an active bed leveling system.

Ultimaker S5 3D printer is the printer of choice for many people in the industry, as it allows several connectivity options. Hence, you can use WiFi, Ethernet, or a USB stick to print while observing the in-built camera’s progress. Plus, the touch display shows visual guides to simplify configuration and maintenance processes. 

Ultimaker 3 3D Printer

Another high-quality 3D printer that utilizes the 2.85mm filament, Ultimaker 3 is one of the most reliable dual extrusion printers. Like the S5 version, this 3D printer can print complex designs thanks to its improved print performance. Also, its unique auto-nozzle lifting system enables users to use different material combinations. 

Ultimaker 3 3D also uses the Cura software and can support several operating systems, including Mac OS, Vista 7/8, and Win XP. In addition, it is compatible with various printing materials such as: 

• PLA 
• ABS 
• PETG  
• Nylon  
• HIPS 
• PVA 

Its professional build, swappable print cores, and automatic bed leveling facilitate the printing of remarkable, intricate designs. 

Unlike the S5 3D version, Ultimaker 3 edition has a smaller printing area with 215 x 200 x 200mm (8.5 x 8 x 8 in) build volume. However, it allows for the same layer thickness of 0.2mm as the S5. Also, it features live cameras to monitor the printing process through a WiFi connection. 

You can use other sized nozzles with this printer, including: 

• 0.25mm 
• 0.4mm 
• 0.8mm 

The printer also allows a layer resolution of up to 20 microns when using the 0.4mm nozzle diameter. Therefore, your print models will also have good precision. 

Ultimaker 2+ Connect 3D Printer

Here’s another high-end 3D printer from Ultimaker. The 2+ Connect edition has a few features resembling the other two versions. For instance, it utilizes the Cura software and has an open filament system, enabling the use of a vast material range. 

It should be noted that Ultimaker 2+ Connect is an upgraded 3D printer version, especially with its high-tech connectivity properties. This printer also features a cloud security system apart from WiFi and Ethernet. Moreover, it has a simplified setup due to the improved ergonomics. 

Ultimaker 2+ Connect comes with a new 2.4-inch (6 cm) touchscreen for intuitive control and assistance. Also, its fused filament fabrication (FFF) technology, single extrusion, and swappable nozzle print heads have revitalized the printing process. 

The upgraded 3D printer offers a printing experience like no other. So, apart from the Cura software, it also uses print preparation software, Ultimaker digital factory, and a cloud-based printer management solution. In addition, it has fewer maintenance requirements, as its air manager gets rid of up to 95% of ultrafine particles and protects the user from hot components. 

BCN3D Sigmax R19 Independent Dual Extrusion 3D Printer

Featuring the Independent Dual Extrusion (IDE) system, Sigmax R19 (available on Amazon) is a professional-grade 3D printer by BCN3D. It is a plastic-made printer with a user-friendly interface. The printer enables massive printing volume; hence, it is ideal for users with a large production capacity of industrial-grade parts. 

Sigmax R19’s IDE system has some advantages over the dual and single extrusion systems. For instance, apart from enabling multi-color and multi-material options, it allows users to print in both mirror and duplication modes. Therefore, they can maximize production and cut on machinery, labor, and maintenance costs. 

The 3D printer utilizes the 2.85 filament and several nozzle diameters, including: 

• 0.2mm 
• 0.3mm 
• 0.4mm 
• 0.6mm 
• 0.8mm 
• 1.0mm 

Its high-quality E3D v6 hot ends control temperature sufficiently, ensuring the filaments are heated precisely during printing. Additionally, E3D’s optimized heat-sink and heat-break geometries prevent under-extrusion from allowing for clean finished products. 

BCN3D EPSILON W27 3D Printer

Epsilon W27 is another line of professional-grade 3D printers by BCN3D. Thanks to its massive build volume of 420 x 300 x 220mm (16.5 x 11.8 x 8.7 in), it can also print large parts. The printer utilizes an independent dual extrusion system consisting of duplication, mirror, multi-material, and soluble support printing modes. 

The 3D printer’s advanced design comes with several advantages: 

• Its enclosed partially heated build chamber uses a heated bed to produce accurate industrial-grade prints. 
• It’s also compatible with several filament materials, including ABS and ASA. 
• It features a Filament Run-out Sensor. 

Epsilon W27 3D printer is an easy-to-use printer, thanks to its 5-inch (12.7 cm) color touch screen that displays configuration settings and the printing progress. You can also customize the interface by changing the language with a simple touch of a button. Moreover, it has an air filtering capability, reducing maintenance requirements. 

Factors To Consider When Choosing a 3D Printer That Uses 2.85 Filament

Filaments have a significant role in 3D printing, as they’re what extrusion heads deposit on the printing beds to form models. While there are various filaments, they’re only available in two diameter sizes (thickness), 2.85mm (3.0 mm) and 1.75mm. 

Now, if you decide to use the 2.85mm diameter filament for your 3D printing, here are a few factors to consider: 

Brand

There are many 3D printer brands in the market, and choosing an ideal one can be quite hectic. Most 3D printer companies manufacture 3D printers that are only compatible with the 1.75mm filament. These filaments have better precision, faster extrusion, and work best with well-designed extruders. 

On the other hand, few brands manufacture 3D printers that utilize 2.85mm (3.0mm) filaments. Though slower at extrusion, 2.85mm are perfect for printing thicker objects and can tolerate poorly designed extruders. But, some 3D printers such as LulzBot can use either the 1.75mm or 2.85mm without requiring any hardware modifications. 

When choosing the best brand to source for your 3D printer, it’s advisable to research widely what type of printers they manufacture. Hence, go for a 3D printer compatible with the 2.85mm filament. Otherwise, you might end up buying a printer that can’t use a 2.85mm filament, limiting your printing process. 

Filament Material

3D filaments are made from various materials, including: 

• PVC 
• ABS  
• PLA  
• HIPS  
• Nylon 
• TPE 
• PETG 

These materials have varying strengths, durability, flexibility, printing difficulties, and extra properties. Filament manufacturers usually indicate the recommended temperature (or printing) settings according to the material’s features. 

If you choose between a PLA and a PETG filament, the latter is a better option as it is more flexible, durable, versatile, and has a higher water and chemical resistance. For instance, for PLA filaments, the printing temperature should be between 180°C and 230°C (356°F and 446°F). On the other hand, PETG filaments require 220-235°C (428-455°F) printing temperature. 

The quality of your filament is a crucial factor to consider. Like 3D printer brands, many companies manufacture 3D printing filaments. Since they’re made from different materials, their quality may also differ. 

Going for poor-quality filament can cost you a lot of time and money. This is because filaments made from low-quality raw materials will clog up your extruders. Hence, your printed models will also turn out to be of low quality. 

Nozzle Size

Many newbies in 3D printing confuse nozzle size and filament size (or diameter). 

• Nozzle size is the diameter of the hole found on a nozzle, the compartment that deposits molten filaments on the printing bed. Nozzle sizes range from 0.2mm to 0.8mm, with 0.4mm being the standard diameter. 
• Filament size refers to the filament’s thickness (or diameter). Now, if you want to use a 2.85mm thick filament, always go for a nozzle whose size matches that of your filament. Hence, you can use a nozzle with a large diameter (like 0.8mm) to avoid jamming (clogging) your extruder. 

Since 2.85mm filaments are best-suited for printing thicker models, it also means that the nozzle size to choose should be up for the same task. This is the case when printing functional models that don’t need to be too pretty or detailed. Therefore, always have an appropriate filament-nozzle combination for best results.