Sovol has introduced the M1D, an open source 3D printer designed to make multi color and multi material printing faster while reducing filament waste.
The printer uses an independent dual extruder system with two nozzles and seven toolheads. One toolhead remains fixed, while the second nozzle can switch between six interchangeable heads. Sovol says each swap takes about five seconds.
This approach allows the printer to keep unused toolheads warm while they wait, reducing the time needed to resume printing after a change. It also avoids the large amount of purged filament often produced by systems that feed several colors through a single nozzle.
The M1D has a maximum build volume of 300 × 300 × 350mm, giving it enough space for larger models, grouped parts, and practical workshop projects.
Independent Nozzles Support Several Printing Modes
The two nozzles can move independently rather than taking turns on the same carriage. This allows the printer to support duplication and mirror printing.
Duplication mode can produce two identical objects at the same time. Mirror mode can create matching left and right versions of a part, which may be useful for mechanical components, footwear prototypes, costume pieces, and decorative models.
The nozzles can also print with different materials. For example, one could deposit the main model material while another uses a water soluble filament for temporary supports.
This setup can simplify models with internal spaces, moving joints, difficult overhangs, and removable molds. Water soluble supports can be dissolved after printing instead of being cut or broken away by hand.
| Specification | Sovol M1D |
|---|---|
| Printing system | Independent dual extruder |
| Toolheads | Seven total |
| Interchangeable heads | Six |
| Fixed heads | One |
| Build volume | 300 × 300 × 350mm |
| Maximum printing speed | 600mm per second |
| Maximum acceleration | 10,000mm per second squared |
| Tool change time | About five seconds |
| Default slicing software | OrcaSlicer |
| Essential price | $1,299 |
| Advanced price | $1,599 |
Essential and Advanced Models Target Different Materials
Sovol plans to offer the M1D in Essential and Advanced versions. Both models share the same main printing system and performance specifications.
The Advanced version adds a heated enclosure capable of maintaining an internal temperature of up to 60 degrees Celsius. This controlled environment is intended for engineering materials that can warp or separate when surrounding temperatures change.
Supported materials are expected to include ASA, polyamide, and polycarbonate. These filaments can provide stronger heat resistance, mechanical strength, and outdoor durability than common materials such as PLA.
The Essential model may be more suitable for buyers who mainly print with standard filaments and do not require a heated chamber.
Sovol rates both nozzles for speeds of up to 600mm per second and acceleration of up to 10,000mm per second squared. Actual performance will depend on the selected material, model complexity, layer height, and quality settings.
The company claims the M1D can complete multi color prints up to five times faster than competing systems. It also says the tool changing design produces almost no waste. Those claims will require independent testing once production units become available.
Sensors and Cameras Aim to Reduce Failed Prints
The M1D includes several systems intended to improve reliability and reduce setup work.
Automatic bed leveling uses an eddy current sensor, while nozzle based Z axis compensation helps maintain the correct first layer distance. Vibration compensation is also included to reduce visible artifacts during high speed movement.
Cameras positioned around the X and Y nozzle areas allow the printer to observe the toolheads and printing process. A separate 720p chamber camera provides remote monitoring.
Sovol plans to add artificial intelligence based obstruction and spaghetti detection through a future firmware update. These features are intended to identify detached models or tangled filament before a failed print consumes more time and material.
The printer relies on OrcaSlicer rather than a closed proprietary application. Its open source design may also make it easier for owners and developers to modify the software, hardware, and printing process.
Kickstarter Campaign Has Passed $2.8 Million
The M1D is being funded through a Kickstarter campaign that has raised more than $2.8 million. Its original target was approximately $191,000.
Early pricing places the M1D Essential at $1,299 and the Advanced version at $1,599. Shipping charges are not included in those figures.
Deliveries are expected to begin in November, although crowdfunding schedules can change due to manufacturing, certification, or supply chain delays.
Sovol has previous experience producing consumer 3D printers, which may reduce some of the uncertainty associated with a new crowdfunding project. Buyers should still consider the normal risks of backing hardware before full production begins.
The M1D’s strongest feature is its combination of independent nozzles and automatic tool changing. If the finished printer performs as promised, it could make complex multi material projects faster and cleaner while giving owners more freedom to modify the platform.
Discussion (0)
Be the first to comment.