Creality K2 Plus - FDM 3D printer

The K2 Plus 3D printer from Creality's second-generation K series was designed to redefine FDM 3D printing with its advanced features and robust capabilities. Boasting an expansive build volume of 350 x 350 x 350 mm, this printer is also available with the innovative CFS unit, enabling seamless multicolor printing and automatic filament backup. At its core, the APUS dual-gear direct drive extruder and closed-loop servo motor system ensure precise control and reliability.

Video 1: Introducing the K2 Plus Combo 3D printer. Source: The Real Sam Prentice.

The K2 Plus achieves impressive printing speeds of up to 600 mm/s and accelerations of 30000 mm/s², paired with exceptional accuracy maintained within 100+-0.1 mm and a layer height range from 0.05 to 0.3 mm. With a maximum nozzle temperature of 350 ºC, an actively heated chamber (max. 60 ºC) and a flexible build plate, the K2 Plus printer accommodates a diverse range of filament materials including PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, and PA-CF (excluding flexible materials like TPU or damp PVA/BVOH).

Image 1: The K2 Plus 3D printer with the multimaterial module. Source: Creality.

The K2 Plus utilizes two optical distance sensors on the Z-axis to automatically adjust tilt and a strain gauge in the printhead for automatic leveling, ensuring precise leveling with minimal adjustment needed. This entire process operates autonomously, requiring no user intervention. The K2 Plus printer has a sturdy 5 mm thick aluminum heatbed (max. 120 ºC) supported by an 800 W AC heating system with integrated safety fuses to prevent overheating and ensure operational safety.

Image 2: The advanced hardware of the K2 Plus 3D printer. Source: Creality.

Furthermore, the K2 Plus 3D printer features input shaping with a g-sensor. Its role is to detect and mitigate vibrations by adjusting movement commands in real-time based on accelerometer data. This technique enhances print quality by minimizing oscillations that can negatively affect accuracy and surface finish.

Image 3: The K2 Plus 3D printer offers an actively heated build chamber. Source: Creality.

The K2 Plus is equipped with closed-loop servo motors driving all XYZ axes and the APUS direct drive extruder, offering 32768 micro-steps per revolution for precise torque, smooth operation, and rapid responsiveness. Noise levels are kept under 50 dB at standard speeds, thanks to FOC regulation that minimizes heat runaway and nozzle clogs, ensuring consistent performance. Furthermore, the printer is equipped with a filament runout sensor, a filament tangle sensor and an automatic filament backup for maximum reliability.

Image 4: Multicolor part 3D printed with the K2 Plus 3D printer. Source: Creality.

The CFS module is engineered for continuous operation, offering seamless filament management for up to four 1 kg filament spools, each with a diameter of 197-202 mm and a thickness of 42-68 mm. Compatible with 1.75 mm filament, it operates with both Creality paper spools and various third-party filaments.

Image 5: The Creality K2 Plus printer in the Combo version. Source: Creality.

The system automates filament loading and unloading, eliminating the need for user intervention, thus ensuring uninterrupted printing. The CFS unit features an LCD display to monitor temperature and humidity levels, along with four status lights (white and red) for real-time monitoring. It also includes RFID filament recognition for Creality filaments and utilizes a desiccant drying system to maintain filament quality.

Image 6: Multicolor part 3D printed with the K2 Plus 3D printer. Source: Creality.

The K2 Plus is managed via a 4.3" color touchscreen interface, supporting multiple languages and powered by CrealityPrint5.0 slicing software. Connectivity options include USB, Ethernet, and WiFi, enabling seamless file transfer and control from various devices. With additional features like air purification and dual cameras for flow rate calibration and real-time print monitoring the K2 Plus exemplifies state-of-the-art 3D printing technology, setting new benchmarks in performance, reliability, and user-centric design.