Mingda MD-400D - FDM 3D printer

The MD-400D FDM 3D printer from Mingda is a large-format 3D printer designed for advanced 3D printing needs at high speeds and temperatures. With a build volume of 400 x 400 x 400 mm, the MD-400D can accommodate large models or multiple models simultaneously, meeting the demanding needs of prototyping or small batch production.

Video 1: The MD-400D 3D printer. Source: Mingda.

One of the most attractive features of this 3D printer is its IDEX extrusion system that allows for 3D printing in standard, duplication and mirror mode, as well as with two colors or two different materials at once, for example support materials. The various modes have different build volumes:

• Standard: 400 x 400 x 400 mm.
• Duplicate: 400 (2 x 200) x 400 x 400 mm.
• Standard: 320 (2 x 160) x 400 x 400 mm.

This solution offers additional productivity benefits aside from increased printing speed. If single extrusion mode is used, the second extruder is moved away from the print are to prevent unwanted filament overflow onto the 3D printed object.

Image 1: The MD-400D printer offers many different printing modes. Source: Mingda.

Beyond its advanced printing parameters, the MD-400D stands out with numerous smart features such as hands-free automatic leveling, input shaping, WiFi connectivity, and more. These features and more will be described in depth below.

Hardware and printing parameters 

The MD-400D features an IDEX extrusion system equipped with all-metal hotends and hardened steel nozzles. This, combined with the maximum extrusion temperature of 350 ºC and a base temperature of 110 ºC, enables the MD-400D to work with engineering and advanced materials such as PLA, ABS, TPU, PET, PETG, ASA, PA, and their fiber-reinforced versions, as well as support materials like PVA, S-Mulit, or S-HtPA. 

Image 2: The extruder of the MD-400D 3D printer can reach temperatures of up to 350 ºC. Source: Mingda.

These capabilities make the MD-400D suitable for various applications, including prototyping, jigs and fixtures, tooling, and final parts in industries like automotive and medical. The dual cooling system, with an aerodynamic air duct design, improves model cooling, reduces warping, and enhances overall part quality.

Image 3: The efficient cooling system of the MD-400D printer. Source: Mingda.

While the recommended printing speed ranges from 100-300 mm/s, the MD-400D can achieve speeds up to 500 mm/s with peak acceleration of 10000 mm/s² (0 to 300 mm/s in 0.02 s). Coupled with a maximum flow rate of 40 mm³/s, this makes the MD-400D ultra-efficient and ideal for fast-paced manufacturing environments.

Image 4: The MD-400D printer can reach printing speeds of up to 300 mm/s. Source: Mingda.

Furthermore, the MD-400D printer features a high-performance, self-developed 64-bit motherboard powered by a 6-core CPU. This setup ensures fast data processing and quick completion of 3D printing tasks. With 32 GB of memory, the printer can easily store, export, and print large files.

Image 5: The automatic leveling and printing surface of the MD-400D printer. Source: Mingda.

The MD-400D's printing bed is made of an aluminum alloy, providing even and fast heating (60 ºC in 75 s) at either 110 V or 220 V. The flexible PEI printing surface on top offers strong adhesion, high-temperature resistance, and ease of use due to its bendability. To further enhance reliability, the MD-400D is equipped with automatic leveling with precise first layer detection.

Image 6: The modular guide rail structure of the MD-400D printer. Source: Mingda.

Precision (± 0.1 mm) is a hallmark of the MD-400D thanks to its Klipper firmware that enhances 3D printing speeds by offloading complex computations from the printer's microcontroller to a more powerful external processor, enabling higher precision and faster motion control. Furthermore, the modular guide rail structure provides increased stability and precision in the movement of the print head, reducing vibrations and allowing for higher printing speeds without compromising print quality. 

Image 7: The flow control feature minimizes the risk of under- or over-extrusion. Source: Mingda.

Additional features contributing to high precision include input shaping, which reduces vibration and results in smoother part surfaces, and advanced flow control, which ensures precise filament extrusion, minimizing the risk of under- or over-extrusion for smoother prints with sharper details.

Software, user interface and smart features

The MD-400D 3D printer is equipped with Mingda's proprietary laminating software, Mingda Slicer. This software is user-friendly, features extensive presets, and is deeply optimized for high-speed printing. Additionally, the MD-400D is compatible with other popular laminating software such as OrcaSlicer, Reptier-Host or Simplify3D, providing users with flexibility in their workflow.

Image 8: Thanks to the WiFi and LAN connectivity the MD-400D printer is ideal for printer farms. Source: Mingda.

In terms of connectivity, the MD-400D offers both WiFi and network cable options and includes an integrated web camera. WiFi connectivity allows for remote control and real-time monitoring, which is especially useful in printer farms. For environments where security and data confidentiality are critical, LAN connectivity is ideal. The integrated web camera enables continuous monitoring of the printing process.

Image 9: The 7-inch touch sreen of the MD-400D printer. Source: Mingda.

The user interface of the MD-400D is enhanced by a 7-inch high-definition IPS touch screen. Compared to traditional LCD screens, the IPS display offers bright, saturated images from any angle and has energy-saving properties. The interface supports approximately 20 languages, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

Image 10: The intelligent self-check function activates when the power is turned on. Source: Mingda.

Smart features of the MD-400D include a self-check function that activates when the power is turned on. This function checks the status of the extruder, printing bed, camera, automatic leveling, fans, and other components. If any abnormalities are detected, the printer displays a prompt on the screen for user intervention. Additionally, the printer is equipped with automatic print resuming in case of power loss and automatic detection of broken or finished filament.

Reliable option for demanding applications

The MD-400D FDM 3D printer from Mingda is an ideal solution for professionals in need of a large-format, high-speed, and high-temperature 3D printing system. Featuring the IDEX extrusion system, its advanced capabilities make it perfect for prototyping, small batch production, and complex manufacturing applications in industries like automotive and medical.

Image 11: A printing project realized with the MD-400D 3D printer. Source: Mingda.

With the ability to work with a wide range of materials, including engineering and advanced materials, the MD-400D excels in creating prototypes, jigs and fixtures, tooling, and final parts. Its smart features, such as automatic leveling, remote connectivity, and precise filament control, enhance user convenience and ensure high-quality prints, making it a versatile and reliable tool for demanding manufacturing environments.