Just wondering what would happen if I upgrade my MK4 directly to Core 1
Since many parts are re-used.
Obviously
- I would not have the high volume flow nozzle and
- I would have the original cooling, be it adapted with a bi-directional fan duct.
but
- It would save me adding the enclosure and
- it would save me all the hassle of keeping the temperature of the power unit and the buddy board at bay.
I do not care that much about speed, and I often use a hardened nozzle anyway for CF filament. That expensive HF nozzle would be sitting in a box doing nothing.
So, if I am happy to sacrifice some speed in some rare cases would a direct upgrade be feasible?
Best Answer by Ken:
On the Blog
The Prusa CORE One Assembly Kit is now scheduled for March 2025 and the Conversion Kit (MK4S->CORE One) will follow in April. If you still have the original MK4 3D printer, we will also offer a bundle that will contain both the MK4S upgrade and the CORE One Conversion Kit – it’s necessary to have the “S” upgrade parts as they are used during the assembly of the CORE One.
RE: Just wondering what would happen if I upgrade my MK4 directly to Core 1
Given your focus on re-using parts and not prioritizing speed, it sounds like a direct upgrade could be quite feasible. Here are a few points to consider:
Original Cooling with Bi-Directional Fan Duct: Adapting the original cooling system with a bi-directional fan duct is a practical solution. It should provide sufficient cooling for your needs, especially if you're not pushing for high-speed prints.
No Enclosure Needed: If avoiding the enclosure saves you hassle and keeps temperatures stable for the power unit and buddy board, that’s a significant benefit.
Hardened Nozzle for CF Filament: Since you often use a hardened nozzle, it makes sense to stick with it. The high flow (HF) nozzle might not be necessary for your specific use case, especially if it would remain unused.
Sacrificing Speed: If speed isn't a major concern for you, and you’re willing to accept occasional slower prints, then the trade-off seems reasonable.
Overall, a direct upgrade, focusing on reusing your existing parts and adapting the cooling system, should meet your requirements well. It's a practical approach that balances performance and convenience, tailored to your specific needs.
RE: Just wondering what would happen if I upgrade my MK4 directly to Core 1
The cooling on the CoreONE's Nextruder looks to be in a different location than on the MK4(S) Nextruder. I don't know if the MK4 cooling fan will fit on the CoreONE's Nextruder, so you might need the fan bracket and blower from the MK4S.
Nothing (other than wanting to avoid paying an additional $100) is stopping you from purchasing the MK4S upgrade kit and just using the parts when applying the CoreONE upgrade kit. Or, ordering the parts that you would need from the MK4S upgrade kit a la carte from the Prusa store when you order the CoreONE upgrade kit. I'd wait for the upgrade instructions to be published to know what parts of the MK4S upgrade kit are needed.
See my (limited) designs on:
Printables - https://www.printables.com/@Sembazuru
Thingiverse - https://www.thingiverse.com/Sembazuru/designs
RE:
....
I'd wait for the upgrade instructions to be published to know what parts of the MK4S upgrade kit are needed.
And that is exactly my plan. 😉
RE: Just wondering what would happen if I upgrade my MK4 directly to Core 1
On the Blog
The Prusa CORE One Assembly Kit is now scheduled for March 2025 and the Conversion Kit (MK4S->CORE One) will follow in April. If you still have the original MK4 3D printer, we will also offer a bundle that will contain both the MK4S upgrade and the CORE One Conversion Kit – it’s necessary to have the “S” upgrade parts as they are used during the assembly of the CORE One.