On Fri, 25 Dec 2015 23:19:25 -0500, you wrote:
Part 2
.*******************************************************************
You will need a 3D printer. It's basically a small CNC machine,
running X, Y and Z directions with a fourth (at least) stepper motor
to feed the filament into the extruder. Most 3D printers have one
extruder, allowing you to print one color at a time. Other printers
have two extruders, which allows you to print in two colors. Why a
second color? If one of them is transparent (you get translucent),
then there's a good way to allow the light from an LED to shine
through. You have your own built-in light assemblies if you have two
extruders.
3D printers of this kind (FDM) range from several hundred dollars to
several thousand. Filament ranges from about 30 dollars/kg. to
perhaps 60, depending on material and where you buy it (more later).
Firstly, you could do a complete build from scratch. This involves
buying the electronics. You'll need a controller, stepper drivers,
the steppers themselves and the extruder. The mechanical pieces can
be printed out on another 3D printer and frequently involve linear
bearings, linear bearing rods, and threaded rod. These printers are
not mechanically robust, but can produce decent work. This kind of
printer is how 3D printing became popular.
A step up in the kit involves precision machined plywood parts, often
laser cut. It's more rigid, but the mechanism for moving the steppers
and holding the bearings in place could be less than sturdy.
Another step would be to have all the materials made of metal, giving
you a bolt together kit. These typically run between $550 and $700
depending on what you actually want as accessories.
Already assembled models can run the entire range. As to what's
better? I'd suggest reading the reviews as much as possible. A bad
kit or printer will show up.
.*******************************************************************
------------------------------------
Posted by: Harvey White <madyn@dragonworks.info>
------------------------------------
------------------------------------
Yahoo Groups Links
<*> To visit your group on the web, go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/GrizHFMinimill/
<*> Your email settings:
Individual Email | Traditional
<*> To change settings online go to:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/GrizHFMinimill/join
(Yahoo! ID required)
<*> To change settings via email:
GrizHFMinimill-digest@yahoogroups.com
GrizHFMinimill-fullfeatured@yahoogroups.com
<*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
GrizHFMinimill-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
<*> Your use of Yahoo Groups is subject to:
https://info.yahoo.com/legal/us/yahoo/utos/terms/