AxiLoop MC8: eight print heads to reduce waste in multicolor printing
AxiLoop is preparing to present the MC8, a 3D printer with eight print heads and eight integrated spools. The goal is to reduce time and waste in multicolor and multimaterial production. The first public demonstration is scheduled for Formnext Asia Shenzhen 2026, from August 26 to 28.
The MC8 represents the first commercial system announced under the AxiLoop brand. The machine stands out for an approach that aims to overcome the limitations of single-nozzle multicolor printers.
Technical specifications and print volume
The MC8 offers a build volume of 27 liters and a declared maximum speed of 600 mm/s. The calibration system is based on 2,500 measurement points.
The build volume is 300 × 300 × 300 millimeters. The declared maximum speed reaches 600 millimeters per second.
The print bed is calibrated through a system that measures 2,500 points. This detection density should ensure greater precision in the adhesion of the first layer.
- Eight print heads with eight dedicated spools
- Build volume: 300 × 300 × 300 mm (27 liters)
- Maximum speed: 600 mm/s
- Automatic calibration on 2,500 points
- Automatic filament change
Eight heads to eliminate contamination
Each print head is connected to a dedicated spool. This configuration should eliminate the need for purging between one color and another.
In multicolor printers with a single nozzle, all filaments pass through the same hotend. Before depositing a new color, the machine must expel residual material to avoid contamination.
The MC8, on the other hand, assigns a separate head to each of the eight spools mounted on the frame. The released images show dedicated guide tubes connecting each spool to the printing area.
This system should eliminate the need for purging and drastically reduce plastic waste. Color change time should also decrease, since it is no longer necessary to expel residual material.
Automatic filament management
The system handles filament loading and unloading without manual intervention. However, some mechanical aspects of the adopted solution still need to be clarified.
AxiLoop states that the MC8 automatically handles filament loading and unloading. The operator does not need to intervene during material changes.
Le informazioni tecniche disponibili non specificano però come le otto teste siano organizzate meccanicamente. Non è chiaro se tutte le teste siano montate su una struttura mobile comune, se vengano prelevate da un magazzino laterale o se sia stata adottata un’altra soluzione.
The term “automatic spool change” refers to the automatic management of filaments already installed on the machine. It is not yet confirmed that the system can physically replace a depleted spool with a new one without human intervention.
Applications and positioning
The MC8 is aimed at those who produce prototypes or small series with aesthetic or functional requirements that demand multiple colors or materials.
Waste reduction represents both an economic and environmental advantage. In single-nozzle printers, the plastic expelled during purges can account for a significant share of the material consumed.
The ability to combine eight different materials also opens up interesting application scenarios. You can alternate plastics with different mechanical properties, create soluble supports, or integrate flexible and rigid materials into the same component.
Presentation at Formnext Asia
The first public demonstration of the MC8 will take place in Shenzhen from August 26 to 28, 2026. It will be an opportunity to verify the system's actual performance.
Formnext Asia Shenzhen 2026 will be held at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center. AxiLoop will use the fair to showcase the machine's operation and provide more precise technical details.
It remains to be seen how the system will behave in real operating conditions. Managing eight heads requires complex mechanics and sophisticated control software to avoid collisions and ensure dimensional accuracy.
article written with the help of artificial intelligence systems
Q&A
How many print heads does the AxiLoop MC8 have?
The AxiLoop MC8 printer features eight independent print heads, each connected to a dedicated spool. This configuration allows managing up to eight different colors or materials simultaneously.
How does MC8 technology reduce waste?
By assigning a separate head to each spool, the system eliminates the need to purge the nozzle when changing colors. This approach prevents material contamination and drastically reduces the plastic waste typical of single-nozzle printers.
What are the build volume dimensions of the MC8?
The AxiLoop MC8 build volume is 300 × 300 × 300 millimeters, totaling 27 liters. These dimensions make it suitable for producing medium-sized objects with high precision.
When will the AxiLoop MC8 printer be officially presented?
The first public demonstration of the MC8 is scheduled during the Formnext Asia Shenzhen 2026 event. The trade fair will take place from August 26 to 28, 2026, where AxiLoop will showcase the capabilities of its first commercial system.
How does the print bed calibration work on the MC8?
The automatic calibration system analyzes 2,500 distinct points on the print bed. This high measurement density ensures greater precision in first-layer adhesion and overall print quality.
