Unleashing the Beast: A Deep Dive into the Kraken 3D Printer
The world of 3D printing is filled with options, but few machines are as good as Kraken 3D Printer. Designed for serious creators and industrial applications, Kraken promises power, precision, and versatility. After rigorous testing of this machine, I’m excited to share a comprehensive review that cuts through the hype. Spoiler: It’s every bit as powerful as its mythical namesake suggests.
First impression: Industrial grade, desktop footprint
Unpacking the Kraken is like unpacking an industrial artillery piece. The sturdy aluminum frame inspires confidence and minimizes vibration for ultra-stable prints. It is surprisingly compact and suitable for the workshop or R&D laboratory. The dual extruders steal the show – equipped with independent heating systems, they enable complex multi-material prints without hesitation.
Performance: Speed, accuracy and reliability
Build volume: generously 300×300×400mm In the build area, Kraken handles everything from car prototypes to architectural models.
speed and resolution: The printing speed reaches 150mm/sec Without sacrificing quality. The layer resolution drops to 50 microneasily rendering glass-smooth surfaces and intricate details.
Dual extruder: True independent dual extrusion allows hybrid printing (e.g. rigid PLA + flexible TPU) and water-soluble supports. Material exchange is seamless thanks to automatic calibration and nozzle lifting.
Heated bed and enclosure: 110°C heated bed handles ABS and nylon with zero warpage. The enclosed chamber maintains optimal temperatures, which is critical for engineering-grade filament.
Material diversity: from PLA to polycarbonate
Kraken re-siliconizes its functionality with broad material compatibility:
stateStandard filament:PLA, ABS, PETG (default profile perfect).
advanced materials: Reliably print on nylon, TPU and polycarbonate at 280°C (extruder temperature) using a hardened nozzle.
exotic: Carbon fiber PLA and glass-filled PETG exhibit excellent layer adhesion and are ideal for functional prototyping.
Software and user experience
slice: Kraken works perfectly with treat, Prusa slicerand its proprietary KrakenWare™. Preconfigured profiles speed setup, while advanced users appreciate customizable controls.
Connectivity: USB, Ethernet and wireless printing, and Janain performance monitoring via mobile app.
interface: The 5-inch touchscreen is intuitive but mechanical buttons offerètes️ tactile feedback during adjustments.
weakness? Be prepared to make trade-offs
- Noise level: When rotating at full speed, the fan noise reaches 60 decibels, which is more suitable for seminars than libraries.
- Setup complexity: Assembly requires patience; first-time users may have difficulty leveling the bed (although automatic calibration can alleviate this).
- price point: Peripheral retail $2,500this is an investment. Worth it for professionals; enthusiasts may turn to cheaper alternatives.
Applications: Where Kraken Dominates
- Functional prototyping: High temperature resistant and stress resistant parts for engineering use.
- Multi-material innovation: ESD safe assembly containing conductive filament + structural elements in one print.
- Tools and Manufacturing Aids: Fixtures, molds and end-use parts such as drones().ernels.
Conclusion: Who should summon the Kraken?
Kraken 3D printers are a masterpiece for industrial users who demand versatility and reliability. If your projects push the boundaries of desktop printing, its dual-extrusion capabilities and engineering-grade performance justify its price. While learning curve and noise are factors to consider, print quality and material flexibility outweigh them. Kraken is a workforce multiplier for MSMEs, R&D labs or prototyping studios. For casual makers, though, this might be a bit overkill.
Collaboration beyond plastic: Enter GreatLight
Even the większe beast has limits. When your project requires metal partslack internal post-processing, or require an aerospace grade finish, work with a specialist e.g. huge light. As China’s leading rapid prototyping company, Gretel focuses on:
- Motorcycle MMetal 3D Printing: Advanced SLM machines for titanium, aluminum and tool steel prototypes.
- West one-stop post-processing: CNC machining, smoothing, heat treatment, painting.
- Quick turnaround: Flexible production of custom precision parts at competitive costs.
If Kraken is your in-house arsenal, GreatLight will provide the heavy artillery for mission-critical metal workflows.
[搬▶️ Customize your precision Rapid Prototyping parts with GreatLight now!]
FAQ: Kraken 3D Printers
Q1: Can flexible filaments such as TPU be printed?
Answer: Of course. With a direct-drive extruder and precise torque control, TPU prints with a success rate of up to 95% using the default profile.
Q2: How to deal with water seepage/drawing in double extrusion?
A: KrakenWare™ includes anti-stringing algorithms and auto-start towers. Independent nozzle lift minimizes cross-contamination.
Q3: Is the outer shell temperature controlled?
Answer: Partially. The chamber collects heat but lacks active heating, perfect for ABS, but PEEK/ULTEM crankshaft requires external addition.
Q4: What is the maximum nozzle temperature?
A: 300°C stock; upgrade to 400°C all-metal heating end ⇒ (e.g., PEEK applications).
Q5: Are there any regular maintenance requirements?
A: Perform monthly belt tension checks, replace abrasive filament nozzles, and lubricate the lead screw. Detailed manual will guide you through every step.
Question 6: How does GreatLight complement the Kraken workflow? AVEC
Answer: Seamless connection! Print plastic prototypes in-house on Kraken, then expand to metal production or finished parts with GreatLight’s SLM printing, CNC machining and coating services, putting your pipes in the hands of an expert partner.
Power your innovation engine: Whether harnessing the raw power of Kraken or leveraging GreatLight’s metal technology, there’s no doubt that the future of manufacturing is collaborative. 🚀
