Filament Maker TWO - 3devo

Recycling plastic is crucial for sustainable practices in research and filament production, reducing environmental impact by diverting waste from landfills and conserving natural resources. This supports the circular economy by reintroducing materials into production cycles and offers a cost-effective, eco-friendly alternative for 3D printing filaments. 3devo, a Dutch tech company founded by innovative engineers, specializes in filament extrusion technology with machines like the GP20 plastic shredder or the filament makers FM ONE and FM TWO.

Filament Maker TWO

The Filament Maker TWO is a powerful amalgamation of advanced filament extrusion capabilities and a dedicated research platform within a single machine. Engineered specifically for high-quality 3D printing filament production, the Filament Maker TWO boasts exceptional stability, precise control, and extensive customization options to ensure an unmatched extrusion experience.

Video 1: The FM TWO filament maker. Source: 3devo.

The Filament Maker TWO excels in processing a diverse array of materials, including cutting-edge thermoplastics such as PEEK, PEKK, and Nylon, alongside additives like carbon fibers, metal powders, and SLS powder forms. Operating at temperatures reaching 450 ºC, it caters to a wide spectrum of 3D printing applications, from industrial prototyping to specialized manufacturing.

Available models

1. HighFlow Model: Designed for high-volume production, the HighFlow model (silver) features rapid extrusion capabilities and dependable performance. It is optimized to deliver consistent filament output under demanding production conditions.
   

   

   Image 1: The FM TWO Fusion and HighFlow filament making machines. Source: 3devo.

2. Fusion Model: The Fusion model focuses on material compounding and experimental endeavors, emphasizing precision and innovation in material development. It offers researchers and developers a platform to explore new possibilities in filament composition and performance.

The DevoKit spare part package includes the following elements:

• 1x PLA granules (1.2 kg).
• 1x HDPE (4 kg).
• 1x Devoclean MidTemp (4 kg).
• 1x Devoclean HighTemp (1.2 kg).
• 2x 2 mm nozzle.
• 2x 3 mm nozzle.
• 2x 4 mm nozzle.
• 2x Puller wheel.
• 3x Empty spool.

While Devoclean MidTemp (MT) is suitable for standard purging at temperatures of 190-230 ºC, Devoclean HighTemp should be used with high temperature materials (290-400 ºC). More information on purging the FM TWO machine can be found here.

Technical specs

The Filament Maker TWO boasts impressive technical specifications designed to enhance performance and flexibility in filament extrusion. It features a robust screw and barrel made from a high chromium and molybdenum steel alloy, with nitrided surfaces for durability and precision.

Image 2: Inside FM TWO Fusion. Source: 3devo.

The three-stage compression system ensures efficient material processing across a wide RPM range of 0 to 20, accommodating filament diameters ranging from 0 to 4 mm with exceptional accuracy thanks to its optical sensor capable of detecting deviations as small as 5 microns.

Image 3: FM TWO Fusion. Source: 3devo.

The machine's adjustable and easily switchable hopper extension facilitates seamless material changes, while its stepper motor ensures reliable extrusion control. The Filament Maker TWO supports interchangeable die heads and nozzles, including options with heat retention socks for improved thermal management. Removable insulation with Velcro and integrated feet further enhance usability, allowing for straightforward maintenance and stable operation in various production environments.

Key features

Stability. A longer screw length (480 mm), an advanced hopper design, a powerful high torque motor, and precise heaters with 4 heating zones ensure stable extrusion and superior filament quality. Furthermore, the increased compression ratio helps minimize RPM fluctuation and enhance overall performance.

Image 4: 3-axis measurement ensures ultimate precision. Source: 3devo.

Precision. Achieved through precise thermocouples, sensors, and the Filament Sensor 2, which detects filament ovality on 3 axes to maintain uniform filament diameter and ensure reliable 3D prints. Thermal sensors monitor filament temperature pre-puller, enabling precise adjustments to prevent filament deformation and maintain consistent quality. Additional features such as visual monitoring of filament quality will be implemented in the future.

Image 5: Accurate filament temperature readings help avoid irregularities. Source: 3devo.

Platform. FM TWO offers unlimited customization potential with tailored data logging and API access for real-time machine control and operational customization. Automatic data logging captures detailed information every second, while API access enables seamless integration into existing workflows.

Video 2: The DevoVision software. Source: 3devo.

Ease of use. The intuitive 7" LCD touchscreen interface allows for effortless navigation and control, with network connectivity and USB accessibility for remote monitoring and control with the help of the DevoVision software. Variable puller settings accommodate different materials, ensuring optimal tension and consistent filament quality. The innovative Spool Chuck facilitates quick and secure filament spooling, streamlining setup and enhancing user convenience.

Image 6: The FM TWO is equipeed with a 7-inch LCD touchscreen. Source: 3devo.

Serviceability. FM TWO was designed for user-friendly operation, featuring easy assembly and disassembly, straightforward maintenance, and easily accessible components. The enhanced screw removal system facilitates thorough cleaning, minimizing downtime and maximizing operational efficiency.

Image 7: Adjust the puller force to accommodate different materials. Source: 3devo.

Upgradeability. The hardware of FM TWO is designed to seamlessly accomodate future enhancements through feature updates, thus offering a versatile filament extrusion ecosystem poised for evolution, promising sustained cutting-edge performance for years ahead.

Sustainable workflow

Combine the Filament Maker TWO with the GP20 Shredder to unlock the full potential of your 3D printing projects. Shred your material, create custom filaments, and bring your 3D printing projects to life in a sustainable and cost-effective workflow. 

Image 8: The FM TWO filament making machine. Source: 3devo.

The Filament Maker TWO not only sets a new benchmark in filament extrusion technology but also redefines the landscape by seamlessly integrating versatility, precision, and user-centric design. It stands poised to cater to the ever-expanding needs of advanced 3D printing applications, ensuring unparalleled performance and adaptability in every filament production endeavor.