BCN3D CTO Eric Pallarés on IDEX Innovation and the New Epsilon 3D Printer

BCN3D Technologies is a leading force in Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) innovation, driving the next wave of 3D printing solutions.

Founded in 2011 at the CIM-UPC research center of the Technical University of Catalonia, BCN3D evolved from an open‑source RepRap project into an independent company in March 2019. Today’s mission is simple yet ambitious: empower innovators by delivering accessible, industrial‑grade 3D printing technology that is both affordable and collaborative.

What sets BCN3D apart?

While most dual‑extrusion desktop printers mount both heads on a single carriage, BCN3D’s Independent Dual Extruder (IDEX) lets each tool head move independently. Launched in 2015, IDEX has become the industry standard for reliable, versatile dual‑extrusion and now enables simultaneous multi‑material printing—doubling productivity for serial production.

Target markets and applications

BCN3D’s technology spans engineering, manufacturing, product design, and architecture. From jigs and fixtures to end‑use parts and prototypes, the versatility of IDEX allows customers to explore a wide array of verticals.

The new BCN3D Epsilon: Bridging the professional‑desktop gap

With professional desktop printers priced under €5,000 and industrial units above €20,000, a workbench segment has long been missing. The Epsilon fills this niche by offering a robust, enclosed build chamber and passive temperature control tailored for technical materials such as ABS, polyamide, and polypropylene. Its safety filters, pause‑on‑filter‑breach feature, and Industry 4.0 connectivity make it suitable for industrial environments.

BCN3D CTO Eric Pallarés with the new Epsilon 3D printer [Image credit: BCN3D]

Success stories

Camper (Spain) – Using Sigma and Sigmax printers, the shoemaker moved from outsourced, costly model production to rapid in‑house prototyping. The team now iterates entire shoe designs, reducing time and cost while expanding creative freedom.

NGNY Devices (Catalonia) – Transitioning from CNC to 3D printing, NGNY cut custom part costs from €2,000 to under €100 and saved up to €40,000 annually by printing 70+ bespoke components per machine in PLA and nylon.

IED – Istituto Europeo di Design (Barcelona) – Since 2017, students use BCN3D printers for rapid prototyping and functional testing. Dual extruders enable water‑soluble supports and multi‑material builds, accelerating the design‑to‑prototype cycle.

Current state of additive manufacturing in Spain

Spain, particularly Catalonia, is rapidly adopting digital manufacturing. Proximity to automotive OEMs and a growing network of makers has positioned the region as a hub for advanced additive solutions.

Challenges ahead

1. Materials – Expanding the range of affordable engineering polymers (polyamides, flexible grades) is essential to unlock new applications.

2. Software – Advanced simulation, orientation optimization, and process control are needed to meet the demands of larger, more complex parts.

3. Productivity – Closing the gap in volume, repeatability, and quality compared to traditional manufacturing will drive broader adoption.

Five‑year outlook

While early adopters will dominate the next five years, the real growth will come from materials and software. Integrated, data‑driven workflows will transform AM into a service‑oriented, Industry 4.0 ecosystem.

What’s next for BCN3D?

2020 is a year of consolidation. After building a robust internal structure and launching the Epsilon, BCN3D expects to see the benefits of its investment materialize, with a focus on expanding product offerings and strengthening industry partnerships.

To learn more about BCN3D, visit: www.bcn3d.com