A new accessory for Bambu Lab enclosed 3D printers should increase print quality.
The “Iglu” is a custom-designed cover that fits over top of Bambu Lab X1C, X1E, P1S and P1P 3D printers. The idea is to help capture more heat to provide a variety of benefits. Iglu explains:
“As research and development engineers we quickly fell in love with the P1 and X1 printers, we also quickly found their limits. So, as we have done many times before from Enders to Prusas to Bambu Labs, we set out to solve the problem of extracting more performance from these machines through a safe, simple method which utilized premium materials. We zeroed in on Iglu, which pushes the printer’s performance, reduces power consumption, looks great, requires no modifications to fit, protects the printer and is built from fire-resistant materials.”
The obvious benefit is thermal: dimensional accuracy is enhanced by lowering the thermal gradient between extrusion and ambient air. These 3D printers do not have specific chamber heaters, so the air within the build chamber will be heated mainly by the build plate’s heater. The enclosure does capture some heat, but the walls of these 3D printers is not insulated.
The Iglu provides a well-designed system for capturing that heat. It includes multiple layers, with the inner layer featuring a reflective aluminum surface to bounce heat right back into the chamber.
What’s more interesting is that the Iglu’s outer skin is fire resistant, apparently meeting the UL94-VTM-0 standard. That’s a bonus for safety, and something no 3D printers include by default. Iglu said:
“Every layer has been built with fire resistance in mind.”
Installation of the Iglu is ridiculously easy: it simply wraps around the 3D printer and fastens with velcro. There are no bolts, screws or snaps to break, wear out or get lost. This makes it easy to remove the Iglu in case you need to perform maintenance on the machine. Of course, the machine’s doors, panel and other areas are accessible even with the Iglu installed.
One possible complication for Iglu owners could be any modifications done to the Bambu Lab 3D printer. There are mods that add larger panels, for example, that might not fit with the Iglu. For those situations, it’s best to consider fit before purchasing an Iglu.
The cost of a single Iglu is AU$150 (US$100), and it ships from Australia.
There’s one curious feature, however: Australian versions of their P1S kit come with a digital temperature sensor that mounts on the top of the Iglu. Apparently this is shipped ONLY with the Australian version, and those elsewhere won’t have it.
Perhaps the Australian sensor doesn’t work upside down in the northern hemisphere?
Via Iglu
