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There is no doubt that LulzBot 3D Printers have always been reliable and are considered a few of the most powerful machines.
Built on the open-source ecosystem and able to print with a large number of filament types, Aleph Objects’ 3D printers have always impressed prosumers alongside makers and professionals equally.
And, as the technology is progressing, even more, is expected from the manufacturer, looking at the past records of producing magnificent 3D Printers.
LulzBot TAZ Workhorse boasts 14% more build volume and is equipped with most of the essential features we have already witnessed previously. The printer is claimed to provide even better print results and is highly accurate.
The 3D printer sits next to the TAZ 6 3D printer from Aleph Objects, is designed to enhance the experience further.
The question is: would it live up to the expectations of its user? Let us review the different features and unique qualities that the 3D printer owns and decide for ourselves.
Features
Apart from the many features that were well applauded in the prior versions, LulzBot TAZ Workhorse showcases some of the most notable features that are unique to this machine.
The company has tried its best to bring something extraordinary to the table while keeping the balance between practicality and budget intact.
Heated Build Plate: The 3D printer similar to its predecessor has a heated borosilicate glass build plate that is PEI coated. The build plate is very helpful in enhancing the adhesion of the first layer. This further helps in printing with specialized material such as ABS and Nylon.
Studier Frame: The 3D printer is designed to provide higher stability. This has been implemented by using the studier frame, even better than the TAZ 6 3D printer.
The frame is strengthened alongside the upgraded electronic component that makes this 3D printer worth its name.
Wide Range of Supported Material: LulzBot series is known for handling a wide range of supporting materials. However, this machine takes that level to the next possible height.
With TAZ 6, the manufacturer entered into the newer and better 3D printing arena. And, with TAZ Workhorse, one can now print with high strength composite polymers as well as high heat composite polymers. This is possible because of the steel tool head.
E3D Hot End along with 360 Cooling: The printer exhibits a lightweight tool head design. This is coupled with the hardened steel E3D Titan Aero hot end. As well as with a 360-degree part cooling. All these combined together provide great accuracy and precision to the printed models.
Belt-Driven Z-Axis: This is a unique feature that has been used in every 3D printer released with the LulzBot series.
With the assistance of a belt-driven Z-axis, the 3D printer is capable of eliminating “Z wobble” print artifacts. These are usually a result of threaded rods. The design is also helpful in simultaneously surging the cycle times.
Automatic Calibration: Automatic calibration isn’t new to the LulzBot family. However, the concept is definitely unique. With the TAZ Workhorse 3D printer, LulzBot has come up with its X/Y/Z Backlash Compensation System.
This concept is based on professional-grade CNC machines. Using this concept, the 3D printer takes into account the calibration cube to measure backlash.
It also calculated the lost motion in a mechanical system. Hence, helping users to achieve the most accurate printed parts.
Automatic Nozzle Cleaning: Automatic nozzle cleaning helps in keeping the hot ends safe and away from filament jams.
The printer automatically cleans the nozzle every time before starting a new print. Hence, users do not have to worry about that part and can continue working with their designs.
3.5” Graphical LCD: The 3D printer has a 3.5” Graphical LCD screen for letting the user take care of the print settings. The interface is interactive and is very intuitive. It is easy to understand and even the beginners would be able to work with it right away.
Modular Bed: TAZ Workhorse uses a modular Print Bed System. This is useful in quickly heating up the build plate further expanding the versatility of the machine. One does not have to sit for long to let the build surface heat up.
Fully Assembled: The 3D printer is completely assembled. This means that one can start printing with the machine right out of the box after a few minutes. Also, the pre-existing profiles of the filaments further speed the print process.
Open Design: The printer isn’t enclosed and is open from all-sided. This means that printing with this machine would require you to maintain proper precautions. Also, it must be kept away from children. Apart from that, the printer gives a complete view of the print progress. Also, it works best with PLA that is known to provide the best results when printed with an open design 3D printer.
Swappable Tool heads: Aleph Objects call the TAZ Workhorse the next generation 3D printer using the next generation of tool heads. The printer flaunts the HE tool head.
The HE tool head is made of hardened steel with a 0.5 mm nozzle. However, the printer provides the leniency to swap the tool head and use other nozzles as well.
One can switch the HE tool head with the SL tool head which has a 0.25mm nozzle for printing small layers. In the case of printing with high strength parts, one can make use of the HS tool head with a hardened steel nozzle of 0.8 mm width.
Not just that, the tool head can be swapped with the HS+ tool head as well. This is the widest hardened steel nozzle and measures 1.2 mm.
These features are very helpful in managing the entire print with ease, even when printing with tricky materials. The 3D printer is designed to provide an exceptional experience to its users in terms of quality as well as reliability.
And, it scores best in almost every front. Some features still needing their say in the design such as WIFI connectivity, remote monitoring, etc.
Specifications
With a total dimension of 832 x 510 x 520 mm and a net weight of 16.78 kg, the LulzBot TAZ Workhorse 3D printer provides large print space for its users. It offers 280 x 280 x 285 mm of build space.
Also, the layer resolution achievable is amazing. Starting from 0.05 mm, one can go up to a 0.4 mm layer resolution. The maximum extruder temperature achievable is 290 degrees Celsius.
Price
The 3D printer costs $2,950. Hence, it is an affordable choice in the professional range. Those looking for high-end applications as well as for commercial use can work with this printer for best results. However, the price isn’t friendly for home users with a limited budget.
First Impressions
LulzBot TAZ Workhorse is securely packaged inside the box with foam covering it from all around. After taking out the printer from the box, one would notice the clean packaging right away.
The printer is packaged along with the necessary tools for the maintenance of the 3D printer as well as a few documentations.
These documentations include the guide for working with the printer as well. Moreover, there are images for different components and parts of the 3D printer. Everything is explained properly.
The printer is completely assembled and comes as one machine. The tools are included inside the zip-ties for the secure delivery of the entire package.
Only by looking at the all-metal frame 3D printer, one can estimate the number of efforts the manufacturer has put in creating the design so impressive and reliable.
Setup
There could not be any easier way to set up a 3D printer. LulzBot TAZ Workhorse is a completely assembled machine with automatic leveling and self-cleaning nozzle feature.
Hence, users do not have to do much before starting with the first print. The cherry on the cake is the pre-existing filament profiles that make the process even easier further.
By loading the filament to the machine and uploading the design, one can start printing right away.
Printing Type/Cost
The 3D printer is based on the FDM 3D printing process. Being the most affordable process within the 3D printing option, the printer also isn’t expensive to operate.
The plethora of choices for filament from cheaper to the expensive ones, provide users with the flexibility to play around with the budget.
The maintenance cost is also minimal. If one takes care of the parts among which the machine itself tales care of the nozzle, the machine can go long for years without trouble.
Print Quality
The 3D printer provides great quality. Aleph has brought this 3D printer to serve for professional use. From medical to automobile, the 3D printer can be used for different purposes.
The printer is capable of producing finer details. The high resolution and amazing precision are possible when using the right nozzle and settings of the printer.
Software
Like every other 3D printer from the LulzBot Series, TAZ Workhorse also comes bundled with Cura LulzBot Edition. The software is an upgraded Cura version and includes a lot of new features and advanced tools to help users get through the printing process with ease.
It allows using the pre-existing filament profiles. However, on the other hand, it lets users change the settings manually when required. It provides full freedom to the users when slicing the design and does it faster than before.
A great option for beginners as well with an amazing user-friendly interface and simple design.
Customer Service
The company provides a one-year warranty and the customer support is available 7 days a week. Apart from that, the website has almost every information regarding the setup and other details of the 3D printer. Also, the LulzBot community is huge and can be utilized when needed.
Parameters Influencing Buying Decision of Buyers
There are many factors that decide if the 3D printer opts for the specific operation. By assessing these parameters one can come to a conclusion if buying the 3D printer would be wise or not. Hence, here is a brief about what to look for when deciding to buy LulzBot TAZ Workhorse.
3D Printer cost: The 3D printer cost is affordable within the professional range and is very competitive. However, if you are looking for a buy to just for fun and some basic learning, without any specified use, this may not be the competitive printer in terms of price.
3D Print quality: The print quality is awesome. As the series is known for creating impressive models, TAZ workhorse further locks that deal. With a minimum 0.05 mm resolution, one can achieve highly precise models.
3D Print speed: The printer speed is decent and faster than most of the similar price range 3D printer.
3D Printer capability: The printer is capable of a lot of things. From geometric complexities to sharp edges, TAZ Workhorse can get the work done with satisfactory results.
3D Printer Practicality: The manufacturer has designed this 3D printer for professional use. The printer can be used for niches such as aerospace, medical, automobile, etc.
3D Printer User expectations: There could have been more to the 3D printer in terms of features. Such as dual extruder, wifi connectivity, and few others. However, if one is specifically looking for the best print results and ease of use, this is the best choice.
Verdict
After winning more than 80 industry awards in 2018, LulzBot 3D Printers have clarified its intention of being the most reliable option.
With a long-standing reputation for its ease of use and results, LulzBot has been accepted by popular brands in different niches.
LulzBot TAZ Workhorse is also from the same series that showcases almost every great feature as its predecessor plus some additional ones. Hence, one can rely on this printer when looking for a sturdy and high end resulting option.
