It seems like a lot of companies are producing them now. I even saw a Dremel version at HD for $999.
I like the Makerbot Replicator 2 and 2X we have at work, but they are the only 2 I have used. The 2X has a heated bed as well as dual extrusion heads--which I personally don't see the utility in and we only use one head on it anyway. The heated bed is a nice feature because as your parts print and cool down (the print head is 230degC), they contract and can warp or worse detach from the print bed. This then wreaks havoc on the print because your part can move around. The heated bed helps to keep your part stuck to the bottom as it prints. Fortunately, the spool material is not terribly expensive. There are work arounds for people without the heated bed, though, and there are also plans online to make your own heated bed if you buy one without.
As I said in the other post, this Makerbot was limited in width. They do sell ones with a larger print footprint.
Like I said, I use Sketchup and the MakerWare software, but the hardcore guys here use SolidWorks or some CAD variant to do the modeling, then MakerWare. If you're fairly proficient with Sketchup, you are good to go. You just need to add the STL export plugin. There is also a plugin called SolidInspector that will check your Sketchup part for any drawing flaws that would prevent it from printing properly.
I think the model 2 was ~$3K and the 2X was more.
We also bought a Pegasus Laser 3D printer:
I haven't used it, but the learning curve seems steeper and the process is messy. Additionally, after the part prints, you still need to cure it in UV light.
That's really the extent of my knowledge on these. If you PM me with your e-mail address and any specific questions, I can ask our resident expert if he'll reply to you directly.
I also recently joined MeetUp to get connected with cycling clubs. There were also several "Maker" clubs available to join so that also may be an avenue for you to get more information--maybe even hands on. I am also aware that some cities have "MakerSpaces" that, for a membership fee, gives you access to things like 3D printers.
Work also bought an Epilog laser cutter. We're just waiting for the delivery of the exhaust unit. My boss is excited to let me play with it because he knows I'm a woodworker although I won't be in charge of it.
Paul
I like the Makerbot Replicator 2 and 2X we have at work, but they are the only 2 I have used. The 2X has a heated bed as well as dual extrusion heads--which I personally don't see the utility in and we only use one head on it anyway. The heated bed is a nice feature because as your parts print and cool down (the print head is 230degC), they contract and can warp or worse detach from the print bed. This then wreaks havoc on the print because your part can move around. The heated bed helps to keep your part stuck to the bottom as it prints. Fortunately, the spool material is not terribly expensive. There are work arounds for people without the heated bed, though, and there are also plans online to make your own heated bed if you buy one without.
As I said in the other post, this Makerbot was limited in width. They do sell ones with a larger print footprint.
Like I said, I use Sketchup and the MakerWare software, but the hardcore guys here use SolidWorks or some CAD variant to do the modeling, then MakerWare. If you're fairly proficient with Sketchup, you are good to go. You just need to add the STL export plugin. There is also a plugin called SolidInspector that will check your Sketchup part for any drawing flaws that would prevent it from printing properly.
I think the model 2 was ~$3K and the 2X was more.
We also bought a Pegasus Laser 3D printer:
I haven't used it, but the learning curve seems steeper and the process is messy. Additionally, after the part prints, you still need to cure it in UV light.
That's really the extent of my knowledge on these. If you PM me with your e-mail address and any specific questions, I can ask our resident expert if he'll reply to you directly.
I also recently joined MeetUp to get connected with cycling clubs. There were also several "Maker" clubs available to join so that also may be an avenue for you to get more information--maybe even hands on. I am also aware that some cities have "MakerSpaces" that, for a membership fee, gives you access to things like 3D printers.
Work also bought an Epilog laser cutter. We're just waiting for the delivery of the exhaust unit. My boss is excited to let me play with it because he knows I'm a woodworker although I won't be in charge of it.
Paul
Comment