<VV> Plastic parts

[mark at noakes.com]

Our plastic 3D printer that we've had forever is a Stratasys; it prints 
ABS plastic and can generate up to an 8 inch cube product. However the 
market is working on models that can do much larger parts. It's not 
uncommon for us to design parts that bolt together to make larger pieces 
though. Ours has a rather coarse print resolution, but the material can 
be sanded or machined for better finish, and the newer printers can do 
much better. Seems like ours cost about $50K back in 2004 when no one 
had them, but they have come down a lot in price now. I see Stratasys 
now has a model for $15K, but that is still too much for an individual 
to buy (me anyway). The DIY kits are interesting (even I've been 
thinking about doing one though I have access to real printers) but too 
small and crude to be of much real use. A lot of universities and 
businesses have commercial 3D printers now though. I suggest finding a 
univ that might be willing to print parts for you.

While we initially bought ours for fast prototyping to make sure 
everything worked out in conceptual design prototypes before cutting 
metal, we mostly use ours now for bracket engineering, custom 
electronics enclosures, and parts that do not require high 
strength...most recent was for a bracket/stop integrating a reed relay 
limit switch into a machine automation task. The turn around time is a 
few hours to at most overnight.

As to the cost of the printed part, it is nothing compared to the 
engineering design time...a few dollars depending on how much plastic 
you use.

Even with our focus on the newer metal 3D printers, our plastic printer 
stays so busy that we have to negotiate amongst ourselves for a spot in 
the queue. There's almost always something running.

Mark N

On 10/31/11 6:16 PM, ScottyGrover at aol.com wrote:
> This appears to be a great machine, BUT-----did you look at the
> specifications regarding the size of the table that the parts are made on, or  the
> advertised "make size?"  It couldn't handle a replica 11-1/8" diameter  fan, or
> even one that had been designed smaller unless you're willing to settle
> for a 4" or maybe 5" diameter fan; and making a cylinder
> head.......................................
>
> Scotty from Hollyweird
>
>