Original Prusa XL Enclosure Review

The Original Prusa XL Enclosure is a custom-made enclosure solution that perfectly complements the Prusa XL 3D printer. It ensures a stable printing environment, reliably protects against external influences like drafts and temperature fluctuations, and minimizes dust accumulation on moving parts. We had the opportunity to test this accessory.

The Prusa ecosystem is known for its modular expandability and upgradability. Users can consistently rely on upgrades, spare parts, and accessories for entry-level models like the Prusa Mini as well as more professional devices like the Prusa XL. In addition to the ability to equip the Prusa XL with up to five extruders, the Original Prusa XL Enclosure is among the most popular accessories. It offers advantages such as a stable printing environment and protection against external influences like dust, which extends the printer’s lifespan and minimizes maintenance. Prusa Research also emphasizes that the enclosure creates better conditions for advanced high-temperature materials, although the Prusa XL in combination with the XL Enclosure does not feature active chamber heating.

Review

Delivery and Assembly

As expected from Prusa Research, the enclosure kit is securely packaged in a large box. It is only available as a kit but can be assembled without issue thanks to an excellent online manual that could serve as an inspiration for a well-known Swedish furniture company. Depending on your experience and the delivery date of your Prusa XL, plan for about 3 to 5 hours for assembly. Devices shipped before June 2024 may require replacement of parts like the belt clamp and Nextruder with heat-resistant components included in the package. In our case, this was unnecessary.

Included Components

The package includes all necessary parts for assembly, such as:

• Metal frame and transparent PETG side panels
• Flexible bellows lid
• HEPA filter
• Temperature sensor
• LED strip
• Documentation and assembly materials
• And, of course, gummy bears

We encountered no issues during assembly, which was straightforward and hassle-free.

First Impressions

After assembly, the Prusa XL presents itself in a fresh, industrial design. Opinions online vary, but we believe the new look gives the device a more professional and robust appearance. The enclosure leaves an overall solid impression, with materials largely appearing of high quality. However, the plexiglass panels could feel a bit more premium.

The bellows lid, made from durable materials like polyester and polyurethane, particularly stands out with its robust impression. The enclosure itself features a stable metal frame with transparent PETG plastic side and top panels. This design not only provides a clear view of the printing process but also offers practical mounting options for accessories like cameras or electronics. Thoughtful cable management completes the concept.

Some minor extras that could elevate the enclosure’s premium feel are missing. Features like insulating strips at openings, a guided folding bellows system, or dampers for the upper lid would have been welcome. Here, the focus seems to be on functionality rather than additional comfort.

Good Accessibility and Flexibility

The Prusa XL Enclosure excels in thoughtful accessibility: The foldable door, securely held by magnets, and the magnetically fixed bellows lid provide easy access to the printer. This clever design offers convenience in handling and proves practical when printing materials like PLA, which are sensitive to high temperatures.

Opening the door and bellows lid easily improves air circulation, which is particularly beneficial for temperature-sensitive materials.

Integrated Filtration System

An integrated HEPA filtration system is designed to reduce odors and minimize the spread of ultra-fine particles (UFPs) in the environment with 99.9% efficiency. The filtration system connects directly to the printer and can be controlled via the LCD touch panel, which also monitors filter runtime and lifespan.

In our tests, we noticed a significantly reduced smell during printing, although it was not entirely eliminated. Overall, the filtration system contributes to a more pleasant and safer working environment, especially when processing materials that emit fumes during printing.

Additional Lighting

A synchronized LED strip improves the printer’s lighting significantly and also serves as a visual status indicator. This practical addition allows users to quickly recognize the device’s operating status while optimally illuminating the printing area. This not only enhances the view of the printing process but also increases comfort and usability.

Additional Technical Specifications

• Dimensions: 700 mm (W) × 900 mm (H) × 720 mm (D)
• Weight: 15.7 kg
• Enclosure Type: Passive (heating exclusively via the printer’s heated bed)

Conclusion

The Original Prusa XL Enclosure meets expectations in our tests and delivers on its promises. It reliably protects the printer from drafts and dust and ensures a more uniform and higher internal temperature. However, it does not replace active chamber heating, even though the large heated print bed has a positive impact.

During a five-hour print with PC-Blend, we measured a maximum internal temperature of nearly 40°C. This noticeably improves print quality but leaves room for higher temperatures that could be advantageous for some high-temperature materials.

Users who primarily work with demanding high-temperature materials and do not yet own a Prusa XL should take a closer look at the Prusa Pro HT90.

Printing with materials like PC and ASA went smoothly in our tests. Additionally, the filtration system demonstrated impressive performance, effectively reducing emissions and odors. Overall, the enclosure proves to be a valuable addition to the Prusa XL, particularly for users who regularly work with technical materials and for workshops lacking centralized air filtration systems.

The Original Prusa XL Enclosure is available in the official store for 744,99 Euro..