What is the MEGA PRUSA I4? The MEGA PRUSA I4 is a large-format desktop FDM 3D printer, inspired by the widely known Prusa i3 open-source design, but significantly scaled and modified for expanded build volume and robustness. While not an official Prusa Research product, the I4 variant—often community-developed or customized by makers—builds upon the open-source Prusa ecosystem with increased printing capacity and mechanical enhancements, making it ideal for users who need big, functional prototypes or long-duration prints without compromising affordability. Why Rent the MEGA PRUSA I4 in Our Lab? The MEGA PRUSA I4 offers a powerful solution for large-format FDM printing, especially when you need a cost-effective machine that can run extended prints reliably. Renting it in our lab gives you access to a well-maintained, custom-optimized setup—without having to purchase or troubleshoot a DIY machine. Why Use It Here: • Expert Oversight: Our staff is familiar with the I4’s custom mechanics and firmware, offering support throughout your project. • Flexible Timeframes: Rent it when you need it—hourly, daily, or for longer-term experiments. • Community Knowledge: Learn alongside other users and share large-format print strategies and optimizations. • Cost-Efficient Access: Test your large models without the high risk and cost of ownership. • Performance-Ready: Our MEGA PRUSA I4 is precisely calibrated, stress-tested, and cleaned regularly to ensure consistent, high-quality prints. Overview at a Glance • Printer Name: MEGA PRUSA I4 • Based On: Open-source Prusa i3 architecture • Type: Large-format FDM 3D printer • Rental Type: On-site only – book through our lab team • Ideal For: Designers, engineers, artists, architecture students, and hobbyists Technical Specifications • Build Volume: Approx. 300 x 300 x 400 mm (varies slightly based on custom model) • Print Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) • Supported Materials: PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU (with supervised settings) • Layer Resolution: Down to 100 microns • Heated Bed: Yes, for improved first-layer adhesion and material compatibility • Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (swappable) • Frame Type: Reinforced aluminum or steel (customized build) • Software Compatibility: PrusaSlicer, Cura, Repetier, OctoPrint (via SD card or USB) Applications and Use Cases • Architectural Prototypes: Ideal for building models at scale with fewer joins. • Engineering Projects: Print functional components like brackets, enclosures, and jigs. • Art Installations: Useful for printing sculptural components or modular art forms. • Educational Prototyping: Large bed allows multiple student projects in one print session. • Product Design Validation: Test ergonomics and spatial fit with full-size components. Considerations and Advantages • Large Print Capacity: Build bigger parts in one go, reducing assembly or glue-up steps. • Tried-and-Tested Design: Based on the stable and popular Prusa i3 foundation, but modified for enhanced performance. • Material Versatility: Heated bed and nozzle control support a wide material range. • Open Source Flexibility: Compatible with a broad selection of slicing software and firmware tweaks. • Reliable Performance When Maintained: We’ve tuned this system for maximum stability—no warping, inconsistent extrusion, or power failures. Maintaining and Optimizing Performance • Active Maintenance: Our MEGA PRUSA I4 undergoes regular belt tensioning, bed leveling, and firmware updates. • Material-Specific Profiles: We’ve tested and stored ideal settings for PLA, PETG, and ABS, reducing trial-and-error. • Guided Use: On-site support helps you load materials, tune first layers, and recover from failed prints. • Calibration Checked Before Every Use: Ensures proper Z-height, bed adhesion, and extrusion calibration.