Latvia-based Mass Portal demonstrated their intriguing Pharaoh Delta 3D printer and we found it had an interesting twist.
The Riga-based company displayed their current delta 3D printer at a major show for the first time. The company’s first product, the “original” Pharaoh, is to eventually be replaced by version 2, which includes a few new features, including WiFi and a touch screen. Both new and old machines include SD card and USB printing, as well as a heated build plate and high-temperature hot end permitting printing of any material up to 300C.
The always-fascinating-to-watch delta technology employed by the Pharaoh permits a build volume of 200mm height and 200mm diameter (a cylindrical build volume). Layer heights as low as 0.050mm are possible. One of the best features is automatic calibration, where the print head detects and adjusts the distance to the print surface all without human intervention.
We especially liked the beautiful, yet simply designed touch screen, something every 3D printer should have.
Another interesting feature is removable side panels, which, when mounted, create an enclosed build chamber where heat can collect. This enables a way to dramatically increase print reliability by significantly reducing warping.
The interesting twist was literally that. In this image you can see the Pharaoh printing while tilted on its side. We watched closely and saw the print proceeding quite normally, as if it was upright. Evidently the machine can also print fully upside down – if somehow required to do so. Perhaps the folks at NASA should look at this machine.
So far the Pharaoh has been sold only in Latvia, but with their recent showing, Mass Portal intends on selling the machine worldwide. The current model is priced at €2,450 (USD$3050), while the new machine will be released sometime in February or March next year at a price yet to be set.
Via Mass Portal
