3D Printing Daily — Sunday, March 1st

🔧 Firmware & Software

No major firmware releases to report today, but the software ecosystem continues evolving with BigTreeTech pushing updates to Mainsail and Fluidd. If you are running a custom build, make sure your configuration files are backed up before updating.

🖨️ New Hardware

Fugo Precision 3D Launches Centrifugal Resin System: The company debuted its revolutionary centrifugal 3D printing system at LMT LAB DAY Chicago 2026. Unlike conventional layer-by-layer resin printing, Fugo uses centrifugal force to form parts as concentric structures—eliminating traditional layer lines entirely. The system integrates printing, washing, drying, and curing into a single automated workflow. It achieves sub-30 micron repeatability with up to 10x faster throughput than conventional systems.

ORNL Develops Multiplexed Extrusion System: Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have created a modular extrusion system that combines multiple smaller extruders into a single high-output stream. This breakthrough allows large-format printers to maintain precision while achieving higher deposition rates—solving the traditional trade-off between speed and accuracy. The system also enables simultaneous multi-material printing within a single bead.

🌟 Print of the Day

This community build from Canuck Creator showcases the LDO Micron+ kit build series—a fantastic example of open-source hardware collaboration. The build features LDO motors and demonstrates excellent belt tensioning and gantry alignment techniques. If you are building your own Micron+, check out the livestream series for real-time tips.

🤖 AI & Generative Design

MIT Develops Multi-Material 3D Printer for Electric Motors: MIT researchers have created a new multi-material 3D printing system specifically designed for manufacturing electric motor components. This could significantly accelerate the development of customized motors for various applications, from consumer electronics to electric vehicles.

Bambu Lab at University of Michigan: The Michigan Task-Based Robotics team is using Bambu Lab printers to accelerate robot iteration for VEX competitions. This demonstrates how consumer-grade 3D printers are transforming research and education.

🔥 Community Buzz

3D Construction Printing Market Exploding: Multiple market analyses project massive growth in 3D construction printing. According to recent reports, the market could reach $3.3 trillion by 2032, growing at CAGRs between 60-105% depending on the forecast. The analysis shows rapid adoption across North America, Europe, and the Middle East, with government investments driving expansion—especially in UAE where Dubai aims for 25% of new buildings to be 3D printed by 2032.

AM Alliance Launches at AMS 2026: At the Additive Manufacturing Strategies conference in New York, AM I Navigator and the Leading Minds consortium announced a new alliance aimed at accelerating industrial AM adoption.

3dfabs Revives Distributed Printing: The distributed manufacturing network model is making a comeback. 3dfabs aims to connect print farms and individual makers with customers needing custom parts—reminiscent of the early 3D Hubs model but with modern infrastructure.

📌 Quick Fixes

Filament Drying Without a Dryer: Sovol published a helpful guide on drying filament at home without specialized equipment. Key tips include using a food dehydrator (set to 40-50°C for PLA, 70-80°C for PETG), using your printer's heated bed with filament in a sealed container, and always storing opened filament with silica gel. Moisture causes stringing, bubbling, and poor layer adhesion—so if your prints are failing unexpectedly, try drying your filament first.

Stop Ironing 3D Prints: Hackaday published a piece challenging the common wisdom of using ironing to smooth prints. The argument: ironing can actually weaken prints by compressing layers and destroying layer adhesion. Alternative approaches like sanding, acetone smoothing (for ABS), or using a heat gun may preserve strength better.