Phrozen, a company best known for its high-resolution resin 3D printers, has officially entered the FDM market with the launch of ARCO, its first filament-based 3D printer. Designed to bring multicolor printing to a broader audience, the ARCO combines precision engineering with user-friendly features, making it a compelling option for hobbyists, designers, and professionals alike.
Phrozen ARCO: A New Chapter in Multicolor FDM 3D Printing
The ARCO is Phrozen’s first foray into Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), a technology that builds objects layer by layer using thermoplastic filament. What sets the ARCO apart is its multicolor printing capability, enabled by the optional Chroma Kit. This add-on allows users to print in up to 16 colors in a single job, opening up new creative possibilities for prototyping, cosplay, product design, and more.
At the heart of the ARCO is a CoreXY motion system, known for its speed and precision. This architecture allows the printer to reach speeds of up to 600 mm/s, with an acceleration of 21,000 mm/s². Combined with a lightweight direct drive extruder and a 300°C hotend, the ARCO is capable of printing a wide range of materials, including PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, and more advanced filaments like PA and PC blends.
Key Features and Technical Specifications
The ARCO boasts a generous build volume of 220 x 220 x 220 mm, making it suitable for medium-sized prints. Its all-metal frame ensures stability during high-speed printing, while the dual Z-axis design enhances layer consistency. The printer also includes a PEI-coated flexible build plate for easy part removal and a 4.3-inch touchscreen for intuitive control.
Here are some of the standout features:
- Multicolor Printing: With the Chroma Kit, users can print in up to 16 colors using a single nozzle and a filament switching system.
- High-Speed Printing: CoreXY motion system enables speeds up to 600 mm/s.
- Wide Material Compatibility: Supports PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, PA, PC, and more.
- Direct Drive Extruder: Ensures better control over flexible and high-performance filaments.
- Auto Bed Leveling: Simplifies setup and improves first-layer adhesion.
Phrozen has also developed its own slicing software, Phrozen Chroma, optimized for multicolor printing workflows. The software allows users to assign colors to different parts of a model and manage filament changes efficiently.
Applications and Market Positioning
With the ARCO, Phrozen is targeting a wide range of users—from hobbyists and educators to professionals in design and engineering. The multicolor capability is particularly appealing for those in cosplay, product design, and education, where visual appeal and color differentiation are important.
Phrozen’s entry into the FDM space is a strategic move, expanding its portfolio beyond resin printing. The ARCO is competitively priced, making multicolor FDM printing more accessible without compromising on quality or speed. It also reflects a growing trend in the 3D printing industry toward more versatile and user-friendly machines that cater to both creative and technical needs.
Background: Phrozen’s Journey in 3D Printing
Founded in 2016, Phrozen quickly gained recognition for its high-resolution LCD resin printers, such as the Sonic Mini and Sonic Mega series. These machines are widely used in industries like dentistry, jewelry, and miniatures. The company’s reputation for quality and innovation has helped it build a loyal customer base worldwide.
By entering the FDM market, Phrozen is leveraging its expertise in hardware design and user experience to offer a new kind of 3D printer—one that combines the speed and material flexibility of FDM with the visual impact of multicolor printing. The ARCO is a testament to Phrozen’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what desktop 3D printers can do.
Conclusion
The Phrozen ARCO represents a significant step forward in desktop 3D printing, especially for users seeking multicolor capabilities without the complexity of multi-nozzle systems. With its high-speed CoreXY design, wide material compatibility, and intuitive software, the ARCO is poised to become a favorite among creators who want to bring their ideas to life in full color.
Source: 3D Printing Industry
