BigRep IPSO 105 Reviews: See Why 0 Shoppers Rated It 0 Stars!

BigRep IPSO 105 3D Printer Review: Industrial Power Meets Precision Engineering

In the realm of industrial 3D printers, the BigRep IPSO 105 stakes its claim as a robust and precise FDM/FFF printing solution tailored for advanced users. Designed primarily for prototyping and engineering applications, this prebuilt machine delivers a sizable build volume and sophisticated features engineered in Germany, boasting a reliable warranty and upgrade path. Its specifications hint at a device capable of accommodating complex projects with dual extruders and a heated chamber, positioning it as a commanding choice for professionals who demand comprehensive print capabilities grounded in measurable performance data. 

When diving into the build size, the IPSO 105 offers an impressive 105.6 liters total, with dimensions stretching over 15.8 x 23.6 x 17.3 inches (WxDxH). On paper, this ensures the ability to produce large-scale prototypes and engineering parts without compromising detail, supported by a layer resolution ranging from 100 to 150 microns. Such layer resolution flexibility introduces users to a balance between speed and precision, while the option for multiple nozzle sizes, including 0.4mm standard and up to 1.0mm, adds versatility to handle diverse job requirements. 

The dual extruder setup (though not independent) facilitates multi-material printing, allowing combinations of PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and even carbon fiber composites, which is paramount for engineering-grade projects. This variety supports advanced materials usage, further reinforced by the inclusion of biocompatible material support that opens pathways beyond typical industrial applications. The machine's physical footprint is significant but thoughtfully engineered: with a width of 39 inches, depth of 45 inches, and a height of 69 inches, and weighing in at 882 lbs, it demands a dedicated workspace with a 10 square feet space requirement. 

Although hefty, the closed Cartesian frame paired with a heated chamber capable of maintaining 100°C provides excellent thermal stability and safety, crucial for consistent print quality and material compatibility. Expectations for thermal controls align closely with the specs, indicating a max extruder temperature of 842°F (450°C) and a heated bed temperature up to 356°F (180°C), accommodating high-performance filaments and reducing warping, which is often a challenge with high-precision FDM printers.

Design & Build

The IPSO 105 presents a meticulously engineered design with a closed frame, which not only improves temperature control but also enhances safety through integrated CE and UL certifications. The enclosure includes a lock and emergency stop button, meaning it meets high industrial safety standards. The inclusion of HEPA and carbon air filtration systems ensures compliance with Air Quality standards, reducing VOCs and particulates common in filament extrusion. 

What stands out most here is the robust build with a direct drive extruder system and quick-swap nozzles, permitting the user to switch between materials and nozzle sizes seamlessly, which is vital on production floors where downtime means lost revenue. The 7-inch touchscreen interface aids in intuitive operation, although the absence of a built-in camera is a slight drawback for remote monitoring capabilities.

Performance

With an official maximum print speed of 150 mm/s and an effective practical speed of about 100 mm/s, the IPSO 105 is well-balanced between throughput and accuracy. A time-to-print Benchy benchmark at approximately 120 minutes portrays it as a mid-paced yet high-quality printer. Its PEI-coated, removable build plate combined with automatic bed leveling tackles common adhesion and calibration irritants, promoting a 95% print success rate per the specs. 

Operating noise is measured at 55 dB during printing, which is relatively quiet for this class and enhances the working environment. The printer supports continuous jobs up to 72 hours, ideal for large batches or extended prototype runs. On the flip side, it lacks filament jam detection but compensates with filament runout sensors and print recovery features, which aid in reducing failed prints due to unexpected interruptions.

Camera / Display / Audio Quality

Though it lacks a built-in camera, a feature increasingly common in industrial printers, the 7-inch touchscreen offers a sharp 1024x600 resolution for on-device operation. Lighting inside the chamber provides consistent white illumination, helping operators visually assess print progress and quality without additional tools. Audio levels recorded during the idle state hover at 40 dB, providing a peaceful workshop setting compared to noisier alternatives. While time-lapse recording is unavailable, remote monitoring made possible via Wi-Fi and USB keeps users connected to their prints, supplemented by a mobile app and cloud-based software.

Extra Features

The printer excels in connectivity and control, boasting multi-printer fleet management, remote firmware updates, and robust cloud-based workflow integration. Its compatibility with popular slicers like Cura, Simplify3D, and Bambu Studio underscores user freedom without proprietary lock-ins. The inclusion of extensive sensor arrays, eight sensors overall, backs real-time condition tracking, calibration history logging, and remote error alerts, providing a professional-grade monitoring experience. Maintenance considerations are thoughtfully addressed with self-diagnostics reminders and an accessible service interval set at 500 hours, though lubrication remains a user responsibility.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Large, versatile build volume supporting advanced multi-material prints
• Strong thermal management with heated chamber and high-temp extruders
• Robust safety and environmental controls, including HEPA filtration
• Excellent connectivity and enterprise features for fleet and remote management

Cons

• No filament jam detection sensor, despite other comprehensive sensors
• Absence of a built-in camera may limit real-time visual monitoring for some users
• High weight and space requirements restrict usage to dedicated facilities

Price & Value for Money

Priced at $11,899 at Alibaba.com, the IPSO 105 sits firmly in the upper echelon of industrial 3D printers. Given its one-year warranty and extensive material and performance capabilities, this investment aligns well with professional engineering environments that require precision and reliability. While some features, such as filament jam detection or built-in cameras, are missing, the depth of hardware safety certifications and ability to integrate into complex print farms justify the premium pricing. Prospective buyers focused on high-quality prototyping and advanced materials handling may find this printer to be a solid value. In contrast, casual or entry-level buyers will likely find it over-scoped for their needs.

Quick Take

In short, the BigRep IPSO 105 delivers on its promise of industrial-strength printing with a generous build volume and material flexibility. If we look at the numbers alone, its precision, safety features, and connectivity options make it a compelling tool for engineering and prototyping professionals. It offers a balanced mix of performance and durability that can handle long production cycles without compromise.

Closing Recommendation

The BigRep IPSO 105 may be ideal for advanced users working within industrial settings who prioritize material versatility and consistent thermal management. It appears to perform best for businesses managing multi-printer fleets and requiring rigorous safety standards backed by certified hardware. This printer helps users achieve detailed, reliable prototype manufacturing with strong support for a wide variety of filaments, although those needing more automated diagnostics might find the omission of certain sensors limiting.

Verdict

Rating: Based on the specifications and overall feature set, we believe BigRep IPSO 105 deserves 4.5 out of 5.

• Winner Feature => Large build volume combined with a heated chamber and comprehensive safety certifications ensures professional-grade results.
• Needs Improvement => Lacks filament jam detection sensor and built-in camera, which could enhance print monitoring.