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Flashforge Creator Pro 2, with independent dual extrusion system

Designed by the well-established FlashForge, the Creator Pro 2 is the latest installment in this manufacturer’s portfolio and comes with very notable updates compared to the first model, starting with the Independent Dual Extrusion System (IDEX), which It allows you to basically double the production of models, but that’s not all, since it can also print in double color and in mirror mode, which puts the Flashforge Creator Pro 2 in a different league. Of course, it has certain disadvantages that can discourage some people, including the limited size of construction. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate all its characteristics before deciding whether or not this machine suits us. 

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more conventional and affordable model, the  Anycubic Vyper  is a widely recommended option today; In addition, we have tested it on our own and we can guarantee its results. 

Flashforge Creator Pro 2 Technical Specifications 

FLASHFORGE CREATOR PRO 2 
Dimensions  526 x 360 x 550 mm 
Weight  15 kg 
Colors  Gray, black 
Materials  Metal / plastic 
Printing technology  FFF 
Print size   200 x 148 x 150mm | Copy mode: 95 x 148 x 150mm 
Nozzle diameter  0.4 mm 
Print speed  10-100mm / s 
Filament  PLA, PVA, ABS, ABS Pro, HIPS, 
Ambient operating temperature  8 ° C – 40 ° C 
Nozzle operating temperature  max. ≤260 ° C 
Heated bed operating temperature  max. ≤120 ° C 
Input / output format  3MF / STL / OBJ / FPP / BMP / PNG / JPG / JPEG / GX / G   
Connection mode  SD card / USB cable 
Manufacturer site  flashforge.com 

 

The Creator Pro 2 exhibits a closed design 

The first thing to keep in mind about the Flashforge Creator Pro 2 is that it is a closed unit . So it lacks the raw build volume of open models, but makes up for it by maintaining a constant temperature at all times. Additionally, this eliminates the need for constant ventilation during the printing process. 

The machine certainly has an industrial look and is somewhat bulky, but nothing out of the ordinary. 

Flashforge Creator Pro 2 - Design

In terms of workmanship and materials, the body consists of outer panels made of plastic , while the frame is made of metal. On the front of the machine, we find magnets to keep the door closed. On the sides, there are handles to help move the printer and some paper stickers with print notices. At the back of the printer we have the two spool holders and the power connector. 

When looking inside the chamber, we will notice that the bed is supported by a set of guide rods on the Z axis, but unfortunately it is not removable. Therefore, separating the prints from the plate may require some effort and care. 

Removing debris on the Creator Pro 2

A very welcome addition is the installation of two metal scrapers at each end of the X-axis rod . These plates allow you to remove any debris that may accumulate on the print head hotends, ensuring that the inactive nozzle does not ruin the print. 

Although it is not very powerful or controllable, there is an LED light that helps a lot to illuminate the dark room. 

Lastly, the printer uses a 6.3mm aluminum build plate . It is resistant to temperature and does not deform even after prolonged exposure to heat. Unfortunately, it does not support automatic leveling. 

Print  

The FlashForge Creator Pro 2 comes with two extruders, so you can print support frames or even two different colored materials at the same time. In addition, the manufacturer ensures that it can work with a decent variety of filaments, such as ABS, HIPS, PVA and Pearl PLA , printing at an average speed of 60mm / s. 

Flashforge Creator Pro 2 - Features

Undoubtedly, the inclusion of  the independent dual extrusion system (IDEX) is the most relevant feature of this machine, since it makes the feats mentioned above possible, as well as allows printing two models at the same time and with optional modes, such as the mirror. To top it off, this also solves many of the leveling, clogging and oozing issues faced by dual non-IDEX extruders. 

However, these advantages come at the cost of something very important: the build volume, which is limited to 200 x 148 x 150mm , being even below modern entry-level 3D printers. Basically it is an exchange of construction volume for characteristics, which will limit or make possible the projects we have in mind, so in the end everything depends on the needs of the user. 

Flashforge Creator Pro 2 - IDEX System

In a different vein, the heated aluminum build plate reaches up to 120 ° C and is covered by a matte plastic foil, which prevents warping and improves adhesion, perhaps too much for its own good, since it is difficult to remove. models as they are not removable. The lack of a filament sensor that alerts us when things are about to go wrong is also open to criticism. 

Model show

The rest is a very solid 3D printer that provides good finishes and keeps damage to a minimum, but that has always been the constant with FlashForge. 

Connectivity and other features 

Connectivity options include a USB slot and an SD card reader and, as always, FlashForge provides its own cutting software for use with the printer: FlashPrint. In this sense, the software does not have a large number of settings, which makes it easier for beginners to use, but sadly disadvantages expert users who know what they are doing and prefer more control over the printing process. Officially it does not support other cutting programs either, adding insult to injury. 

Other Features of the Creator Pro 2

Lastly, the 3.5-inch full-color touchscreen on the front provides access to many of the printer’s essential functions through its intuitive interface. 

PROS:

 

  • IDEX system 
  • Dual filament and dual color printing 
  • Anti residue design 
  • Supports multiple filaments 
  • Copy mode 
  • Rapid and uniform heating of the heated bed 

 

CONS:

 

  • Limited build size 
  • No automatic leveling 
  • Cutting software offers few possibilities 
  • The printing surface is removable 

 

 

 

8TOTAL SCORE

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