Theoretical extrusion rate (max. throughput) can be bottlenecked by a variety of factors when actually producing a part. An extruder only reaches its theoretical max speed in long straight lines, an uncommon shape for a production technology often sought to create complex geometries. Otherwise, pushing a printer faster than it can handle will lead to problems outside the extruder like a shaking gantry (the arms controlling x, y, and z motion also called the “portal”). These external hardware issues result in misaligned layers, uneven surfaces, washed out details, and generally poor part quality that’s unacceptable for most industrial applications. To make the most out of an extruder’s throughput, it must be matched by a portal designed for high accelerations – like the PRO’s.

Production speed is a deliverable metric. We often use it to assess the effect on lead times when optimizing production workflows with an additive system. It’s likely that you use it in your own workflow to measure part or hardware efficiency and are familiar with a quality lead time.