The Modix BIG-180X V4 is a large-format industrial FDM printer with a 1800×600×600 mm build volume, designed for full-scale parts in sectors like automotive, aerospace, and architecture. It features the high-flow Griffin print head (Bondtech extruder + Modix hotend, up to 450 °C) and upgraded Nema-23 motors for speeds up to 250 mm/s. The Duex 5 board enables automated calibration, including bed leveling and gantry alignment. Compatible with any 1.75 mm filament, it supports materials like PLA, ABS, Nylon, TPU, and composites. An optional IDEX add-on enables dual-material and multi-color printing, ideal for prototyping and production.
What is the print quality and performance of the Modix Big-180X 3D printer?
The Modix BIG-180X V4 delivers high print quality with a 40 μm minimum layer height, producing smooth surfaces and fine details. A demo shows a 64-hour print of a full-size chair (330 × 330 × 450 mm) using 3.8 kg of PLA at 0.4 mm layers with a 0.8 mm nozzle, maintaining dimensional accuracy and layer adhesion at 25 mm/s outer and 50 mm/s infill speeds — without shifts or thermal drift common in long large-format prints.
The upgraded Z-axis with Nema-23 motors and CNC brackets improves print accuracy and stability across the full 1800 × 600 × 600 mm build volume. A demo shows the printer producing a full-size hockey stick, nearly spanning its entire width, highlighting the precision of its 300-point bed leveling and four independent Z-axis motors for consistent layer adhesion and dimensional accuracy.
The productivity of the large Modix 3D printers depends on the extruder, with Griffin variants ranging from ~46.9 g/h (High-Resolution) to over 500 g/h (Ultra), driven by differences in hotend length, melt path design, and heater power.
Feature / Spec
Griffin (Standard)
Griffin High-Resolution
Griffin High-Flow
Griffin Ultra
Use Case
All-purpose printing
Ultra-fine detail
High-speed, large prints
Maximum throughput, industrial use
Design
Standard hotend
50% shorter for precision
Double-length for more melt volume
Extended dual-zone melt path (4× standard)
Flow Rate
~30 mm³/s
~15 mm³/s
~45–60 mm³/s
~160 mm³/s
Extrusion Rate
~93.8 g/h
~46.9 g/h
~140.6–187.5 g/h
>500 g/h
Nozzles
Volcano-compatible; 0.4, 0.6, 0.8mm
Volcano-compatible; 0.4mm
Volcano-compatible; 1.0mm
Volcano-compatible; 1.6mm
Heater
50W standard
50W standard
80W upgraded
Dual heaters (>80W)
Cooling
Standard fan
Standard fan
Standard fan
Dual XXL blowers
Max Temp
Tested to 340°C, supports up to 500°C
Tested to 340°C, supports up to 500°C
Tested to 340°C, supports up to 500°C
Tested to 340°C, supports up to 500°C
Build Volume Impact
None
None
None
Reduces X by 50mm; Y by 50mm (IDEX mode)
The optional Griffin High-Resolution Extruder supports tight tolerances. For example, this video shows 50-micron layer height printing, producing two detailed 11.5mm bolt parts in 27 minutes. Printed in Glitter Gray PLA using a 0.4mm nozzle at 185°C, 55°C bed, 2.5mm retraction, 100% fan, 2 outer walls, and 7 top solid layers.
The optional Griffin Ultra hotend halves production time — a 1-meter statue printed in 21 hours vs. 47 with the standard Griffin Extruder.
The BIG-180X V4 uses HIWIN linear rails for precise, fast, and reliable movement. The Duex 5 expansion board provides dedicated drivers for each Z and X motor, enabling full automated bed tilt, leveling, gantry alignment, and Z offset calibration for improved print quality.
Upgraded optical end-stop switches enhance accuracy and repeatability, improving print recovery after power outages.
The Griffin printhead’s modular design supports both speed and precision, with nozzle sizes from 0.4 mm to 1.2 mm. Hardened steel nozzles handle abrasive materials up to 450°C, while a bi-metal heat break and PT-1000 sensor enable printing at up to 500°C for high-temp industrial materials.
Which filaments can you use with the Modix Big-180X?
The Modix BIG-180X V4 supports over 15 filament types, including PLA, ABS, PETG, Nylon, TPU/TPE, and composites like carbon fiber, wood, and metal-filled filaments. With the optional PT-1000 upgrade, it can reach 500 °C, enabling high-temp engineering plastics. Its open material system works with any 1.75 mm third-party filament and is compatible with slicers like Simplify3D, PrusaSlicer, and Cura. The optional IDEX add-on allows multi-material, multi-color, and soluble support printing, while a built-in clog detector helps prevent print failures and material waste.
3D Print Sample: Breakaway support filament
3D Print Sample: Printing with soluble support filament
PETG 3D Print Sample:
Image Credit: Glen Waldner
PETG 3D Print Sample:
Image Credit: Glen Waldner
Case Study: Wyve Surf — French startup revolutionizing surfboard manufacturing with sustainable, customizable boards that won the 2020 Greentech Innovation Award for their Hexa surfboard. Their fleet of BIG-180X printers uses recycled materials including PET bottles and fishing nets, printing boards as single pieces for superior strength while eliminating up to 100 pounds of pollutants per board compared to conventional manufacturing.
Case Study: Illumaesthetic — Custom automotive parts manufacturer evolved from a college project to a global force operating five Modix printers ranging from BIG-60 to BIG-180X. They create race car bumpers, custom car body parts, and collaborated with Donut YouTube channel on a record-breaking minibike project utilizing 25 total print days distributed across three different printers.
ASA 3D Print Sample: This video shows Illumaesthetic using a Modix printer to prototype a custom Subaru STI front bumper in ASA. Due to size limits, the bumper was printed in five parts, which were used as master patterns for fiberglass mold and final part production at Big Dog Club.
PETG 3D Print Sample: In collaboration with Donut Media, Illumaesthetic used multiple Modix printers, including the BIG-180X, to 3D print PETG aerodynamic fairings over 25 days across three machines. The resulting cowling system reduced drag by 4% — from 431 to 413 Newtons — on Donut’s 100 mph record-breaking minibike.
PETG Print Sample
What is the build volume of the Modix Big-180X?
With a massive 1800 × 600 × 600 mm (648 L) build volume, the Modix BIG-180X V4 is among the largest FDM/FFF printers available. Designed for automotive professionals, it enables single large-part prints or batch printing of multiple mid-sized models without compromising quality or reliability.
The BIG-180X V4’s extended build length is ideal for automotive, aerospace, and product development, enabling large, single-piece prints that improve structural integrity and reduce post-processing.
What is the difference between the Modix Big-180X and MakeIT 2X4+?
The Modix BIG-180X V4 offers strong value in large-format FDM printing by focusing on X-axis width (1800 mm), a precision 300-point bed leveling system, and a lower $25,000+ price — compared to the MAKEiT 2X4+’s 728 L capacity, heated chamber, and $32,000–$45,000+ price range. While the MAKEiT excels in turnkey operation and thermal control, the BIG-180X V4 appeals to budget-conscious professionals with its self-assembly design, optional IDEX, and 500°C hotend, surpassing MAKEiT’s 450°C. It’s ideal for wide-format, high-temp, cost-sensitive applications; the MAKEiT suits users needing fully assembled, industrial-grade performance.
Specification
Modix Big-180X V4
MAKEiT 2X4+
Build Volume (X×Y×Z mm)
1800 × 600 × 600
1400 × 650 × 800
Total Volume (Liters)
648
728
Price Range (USD)
$25,000+
$33,000-45,000+
Assembly Method
Self-assembly kit
Fully assembled + tested
Max. Hotend Temperature
500°C
450°C
Bed Leveling
300 probing points, automatic
100% automatic
Dual Extruder Option
IDEX optional kit
N/A
Heated Chamber
Enclosed (not heated)
Built-in heated chamber
Frame Construction
40mm T-slot aluminum
Steel frame structure
What printer controls are available on the Modix Big-180X?
The Modix Big-180X V4 offers 4 distinct control methods, such as PanelDue touchscreen, Duet Web Control, Local File Input, and optional Ethernet, giving operators complete control over all printer functions.
1. PanelDue Touchscreen
A 7-inch touchscreen (PanelDue) mounted on the gantry gives direct access to print settings, axis controls, and live temperature data. Users can start, pause, cancel prints, and adjust settings in real time — no separate computer needed.
2. Duet Web Control (Wi-Fi Interface)
Powered by the Duet 2 mainboard, the BIG-180X V4 features Duet Web Control — a browser-based interface accessible via Wi-Fi or local network. It lets users upload G-code, monitor prints, queue jobs, and adjust settings remotely from any web-enabled device.
3. Local File Input (SD Card & USB)
For offline use, the BIG-180X V4 supports G-code via SD card or USB-A. Jobs can be launched from the PanelDue screen, allowing autonomous printing without network access or tying up a workstation.
4. Ethernet Connectivity (Optional)
The optional Duet Ethernet board provides a stable, wired RJ-45 connection to Duet Web Control — ideal for industrial environments prone to Wi-Fi issues. It also enables advanced features like node-red remote monitoring and syslog diagnostics.
These four control options — touchscreen, web interface, offline media, and Ethernet — give users precise, flexible control whether operating the printer locally or managing it remotely.
What connectivity options are available on the Modix Big-180X?
The Modix BIG-180X V4 offers 3 connectivity options: Wi-Fi, USB, and SD card. Its Duet3D Wi-Fi controller allows remote access via PC, tablet, or smartphone on the same network to upload files, monitor progress, and adjust settings in real time.
The system includes a high-speed microSD slot and supports a second external SD card, offering flexible file transfer without needing network access.
For regulated environments where Wi-Fi connectivity is prohibited, the Duet3D Ethernetboard can be ordered and installed as an alternative networking solution.
What software is offered with the Modix Big-180X?
The Modix BIG-180X V4 is fully compatible with Cura, PrusaSlicer, and Simplify3D.
Customers gain access to a secure support zone with pre-configured slicing profiles and printer settings, streamlining setup and eliminating manual configuration.
The Modix BIG-180X V4 runs on open-source Duet RepRap firmware by Duet3D, offering a flexible, customizable environment. Users can create multiple configurations and automate tasks using its powerful macro system.
What is the design and build quality of the Modix Big-180X?
What is the design and form factor of the Modix Big-180X?
The Modix BIG-180X V4 uses an industrial open-frame design with 40×40 mm T-slot aluminum profiles for rigidity and modularity. Powder-coated, laser-cut brackets ensure precise assembly and a professional finish.
Physical Specifications:
Overall dimensions: 2,630 x 1,060 x 1,573 mm
Shipping weight: 210-260 kg (varies by configuration)
The BIG-180X includes a full enclosure with 3 mm aluminum composite panels for heat retention and noise reduction. Polycarbonate doors and a pneumatic top lid offer easy access while preserving temperature. Casters and leveling feet ensure mobility and accurate setup.
What is the motion system of the Modix Big-180X?
The BIG-180X V4 uses HIWIN MGW9H linear rails on all axes, offering high precision and load capacity with their stainless steel build and Gothic arch contact design.
The motion system uses Gates GT2 fiberglass-reinforced belts for reliable, low-stretch power transmission, with temperature tolerance from -30°C to +100°C.
The BIG-180X V4 uses NEMA-23 stepper motors for higher torque, with four independently driven Z-axis motors enabling automatic bed tilt calibration and synchronized lifting. SFU1204 ball screws with 2:5 belt reduction ensure precise vertical positioning.
Gates GT2 belts feature nylon tooth covers for reduced noise and resistance to tooth jump. Their fiberglass cords and neoprene construction ensure long life and consistent performance under high-acceleration printing.
What are the build platform specifications of the Modix Big-180X?
The BIG-180X V4 uses a 6.35 mm Alcoa Mic-6 cast aluminum build plate for excellent flatness and thermal stability across its 1800 × 600 mm surface. Three AC heaters deliver 1,370 W in a triple-zone setup for even heat distribution.
The BIG-180X V4 uses an Autonics TCN4 PID controller for ±0.5% temperature accuracy with a 100 ms sampling rate. A 300-point bed leveling system and four independent Z-axis motors ensure precise calibration and automatic tilt correction.
What is the hotend and extruder system of the Modix Big-180X?
The BIG-180X V4 features the Griffin print head, Modix’s fourth-gen extruder system, combining Bondtech BMG direct drive extruders with 3:1 gearing for high-torque control. It uses Motech MT-1703HS168A stepper motors optimized for direct drive performance.
How does the Modix Big-180X handle filament storage and feeding?
The BIG-180X V4 includes an integrated 8 kg spool shelf for industrial spools, eliminating the need for external supports. Its dual spool system supports two large spools simultaneously, ideal for IDEX printing.
The filament management system includes clog detection, runout sensing, and under-extrusion monitoring for reliable, uninterrupted printing.
What is the mainboard of the Modix Big-180X?
The BIG-180X V4 features a Duet3D Wi-Fi 32-bit controller with a Duex5 expansion board for advanced motion control and I/O. The dedicated Wi-Fi module with external antenna ensures stable remote access, while the Duex5 adds support for IDEX, auto calibration, and multi-zone heating with extra drivers, heater outputs, fan outputs, and thermistor inputs. Users can operate the printer remotely via a web interface or locally using the 7-inch touchscreen.
What are the power supply specifications of the Modix Big-180X?
The BIG-180X V4 uses a 24V 280W Meanwell power supply with universal input (85–264VAC), built-in protections, active PFC, and Energy Efficiency Level VI compliance, consuming under 0.5W in standby. Its 1,370 W triple-zone bed heater runs on single-phase 208–240 V at 32 A, using NEMA L6-30P outlets in North America and IEC 309 32A Blue in EU/AU/UK. The system delivers fast, even heating with a silent, fanless design and features durable aviation-grade switches and connectors for industrial reliability.
What comes included in the box with Modix Big-180X 3D printer kit?
• All components required to assemble the Modix BIG-180X V4 3D printer
• 1x Powder-coated aluminum components set
• 1x Hex and screwdriver tool kit
• 1x Cable and wire sets
• 1x Full enclosure (pre-cut panels)
• 4x Casters for mobility
• 1x SD card with firmware and documentation
• 1x Set of spare parts
• 1x Aluminum print bed (1800 x 600 mm)
• 1x 7-inch LCD touchscreen
• 1x Dual spool holder system
• 1x Power cord set
• 1x Power supply unit
• 1x Power Distribution Unit (PDU)
• 3x Standard brass nozzles in different sizes (0.4mm, 0.6mm, 0.8mm)
• 1x PEI print surface sheet
The Modix BIG-180X V4 ships as a self-assembly kit with all components securely packaged, essential tools included, and full documentation in the customer support portal.
Please Note: Package contents are determined by the manufacturer and may change without notice. To confirm the current items included with this product, please contact a Top3DShop sales representative before placing your order.
What upgrades and accessories are available for the Modix Big-180X Generation 4 3D printer?
The Modix BIG-180X supports over 15 upgrades.
Accessory
Function
Price (USD)
Griffin Ultra Printhead
High-temperature printing up to 500°C with PT-1000 thermistor
$1,100
Griffin High-Flow Printhead
Fast printing for large objects with 80W heater and 1mm nozzle
$350
Tilt Screen & Emergency Button
Articulated screen mount with emergency stop and frontal power switch
$250
Spare Griffin Hotend
Replacement Griffin hotend for maintenance
$180
IDEX Dual Printhead
Independent dual extruder for support materials and complex internal geometries
$1,100
IDEX Calibration Tool
Tool for calibrating IDEX dual printhead system
$250
Filament Dryer
Remove moisture from filament for better print quality
$1,600
Griffin Brass Nozzles Pack
Set of 5 nozzles (0.4/0.6/0.8/1.0/1.2mm) for general purpose printing
$60
Griffin Hardened Steel Nozzles
Set of 3 nozzles (0.4/0.6/0.8mm) for abrasive filaments
$170
Magnetic Bed (3 pcs)
Easy part removal with magnetic flexible bed system
$1,800
Extra PEI Sheet
Replacement PEI printing surface sheet
$150
Active Air Filter
Three-phase air filtration: pre-filter, HEPA, and carbon filter
$1,350
Basic Maintenance Kit
Essential spare parts for printhead and motion system
$300
Advanced Maintenance Kit
Comprehensive spare parts kit including belts, motors, bearings
$1,400
Filter Spares Set
Replacement filters for Active Air Filter system
$300
Griffin Ultra Printhead
With a PT-1000 sensor, the hotend reaches up to 500 °C, allowing precise printing of high-performance polymers like PEEK and ULTEM without thermal degradation.
Griffin High-Flow Printhead
An 80 W heater block with a 1 mm nozzle enables high extrusion rates for large prints, reducing print time while maintaining dimensional accuracy.
Tilt Screen & Emergency Button
An adjustable display arm with a front-facing emergency stop switch centralizes control and improves safety by allowing immediate power cutoff during manual operations.
Spare Griffin Print Head
A factory-calibrated replacement module fits directly into existing Griffin mounts, matching original specs to enable quick maintenance and minimize downtime.
IDEX Dual Printhead
The IDEX upgrade adds two independent extruders, enabling dual-material printing and complex geometries without manual tool changes. Each printhead operates separately for efficient multi-material prototyping.
IDEX Calibration Tool for Modix 3D Printer
Includes precision shims and alignment tools to synchronize nozzle offsets, ensuring accurate layer registration and preventing collisions during dual-extrusion printing.
Filament Dryer
A heated chamber with a desiccant cartridge dries filament to below 0.1% moisture, preventing steam pockets and stringing. This improves layer adhesion and surface quality.
Griffin Brass Nozzles Pack
Includes five 0.4 mm brass nozzles ideal for non-abrasive materials like PLA and PETG. Brass ensures excellent heat conductivity and smooth, consistent extrusion.
Griffin Hardened Steel Nozzles
Made from wear-resistant alloy, hardened steel nozzles handle abrasive materials like carbon-fiber nylon. They maintain their shape over long prints, preventing nozzle wear and diameter changes.
Magnetic Bed Kit
Includes three 600 × 600 mm flexible magnetic sheets for the 1800 mm build plate. Flexing each section allows easy, tool-free part removal while protecting the surface from damage.
Extra PEI Sheet for Modix Printer
A 600 × 600 mm removable PEI sheet attaches to the magnetic bed, ensuring strong first-layer adhesion. It resists warping and maintains flatness through repeated heating cycles.
Active Air Filter
A three-stage filter — pre-filter, HEPA, and activated carbon — mounts to the enclosure to capture sub-micron particles and VOCs, creating a cleaner workspace when printing materials like ABS and PETG.
Basic Maintenance Kit
Includes spare belts, lubricant, PTFE liners, and nozzle cleaning tools for routine maintenance. Regular use helps maintain motion precision and consistent extrusion quality.
Advanced Maintenance Kit
Adds stepper motors, linear bearings, and tensioners to the basic kit, addressing wear from heavy-duty use. This full set enables in-house refurbishment without needing external service.
Filter Spares Set
Includes replacement pre-filters, HEPA cartridges, and carbon sheets for the Active Air Filter. Regular replacement maintains filtration performance and extends system lifespan.
What maintenance does the Modix Big-180X require?
The Modix Big-180X V4 requires 10+ maintenance procedures to maintain consistent dimensional accuracy and surface quality.
Daily maintenance
Wipe the PEI print surface with 99% isopropyl alcohol to remove grease and debris for reliable first-layer adhesion.
Visually inspect the Griffin hotend nozzle and heat block for filament buildup; remove residues with a brass wire brush to prevent flow restrictions.
Verify that part cooling fans spin freely and are free of dust or plastic shavings to ensure proper layer cooling.
Weekly maintenance
Measure and adjust belt tensions on X, Y, and Z axes to 15–20 N using a tension gauge, preserving precise axis movement.
Apply synthetic machine oil to linear guide rails and lead screws; wipe off excess oil to prevent dust accumulation and reduce wear.
Check the tightness of M5 frame and gantry bolts; torque to 5–6 Nm to eliminate mechanical backlash during long prints.
Monthly maintenance
Recalibrate bed leveling using the Duet’s auto-calibration probe or manual mesh leveling; confirm flatness deviation stays within ±0.1 mm across the full 1800 mm span.
Align the gantry parallelism by measuring corner-to-corner diagonals; adjust eccentric nuts to correct alignment within 0.2 mm.
Quarterly maintenance
Replace PTFE liner inside the Griffin hotend heatbreak if wall thickness exceeds 0.5 mm wear to maintain thermal barrier performance.
Inspect and clean extruder drive gears; remove filament dust and lubricate bearings with light machine oil to ensure consistent filament feed force.
Due to its large scale, the printer requires ongoing calibration of the motion system, bed leveling, and temperature controls to maintain consistent print quality across the large build volume.
What support and warranty come with the Modix Big-180X?
The Modix BIG-180X V4 includes a 12 month warranty covering non-consumable parts, excluding items like the PEI sheet and nozzles. Optional extensions of up to two years cover manufacturer defects, including electronics, offering added protection for production use.
Modix offers lifetime technical support via email Sunday–Thursday, 09:00–18:00 GMT+3, with video sessions available on request. Customers also get access to a dedicated support zone with manuals, print profiles, firmware, and interactive 3D assembly guides.
The Modix BIG-180X V4 includes video-guided assembly instructions with interactive 3D models for visual clarity. For those who prefer not to self-assemble, professional assembly by Top3DShop is available as a paid service.
Full warranty terms: https://www.modix3d.com/terms
How much does the Modix Big-180X V4 cost?
The Modix BIG-180X V4 is priced at $19,040.00, offering strong value for a large-format industrial 3D printer.
Chassis
Solid 40X40 T-slot aluminum profiles
Compatible slicers
Slic3r, Cura, and Simplify3d
Connectivity
WiFi module with external antenna
Electronic controller
Duet 2 WiFi
Extruder
Bondtech extruder with dual drive-gear system
Firmware
Open-source Duet RepRap firmware
Max. bed temperature
110°c (with enclosure)
Power requirements
208-240V, 32A connections
Print surface
PEI film with 3M high temp adhesive sheet
Shipping weight
120 KG (~265 lbs)
Splicing technology
FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication)
Stepper drivers
Quiet TMC2660 stepper drivers, up to 256 micro-stepping
WiFi web access for remote control from either mobile or PC
Temperature Sensor
PT-1000 temperature sensor
Timing Belt
9 mm width Gates GT2, reinforced with fiberglass
Touch Screen
7-inch Duet3D touchscreen
Voltage support
110V and 230V
X & Z Axis Motors
NEMA-23
X Axis Mechanical Accuracy
10 Micron
Y Axis Mechanical Accuracy
10 Micron
Y Axis Motors
NEMA-17
Z Axis Mechanical Accuracy
0.5 Micron
Z Ball Screws
12mm diameter, 4mm pitch
Processor
Powerful 32 Bit Processor
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The BIG-180X V4 uses an Autonics TCN4 PID controller for ±0.5% temperature accuracy with a 100 ms sampling rate. A 300-point bed leveling system and four independent Z-axis motors ensure precise calibration and automatic tilt correction.
