I am in the process of picking which 3D printer the company will purchase and would like some input.
Price Range - I would like to stay under $10,000 but can go higher if there is something worthy.
Usage - We will be using it to rapidly create tooling to keep the manufacturing process going. Ex. Creating a drilling jig to the contour of the model with 1/2" holes to insert press fit bushings. We also might venture into using it to prototype part designs.
Must have features:
1. Large build volume
2. Dual extrusion for support material
3. Accurate prints
4. Reliable
5. Ready to Print (no kits)
6. Has to be small enough to carry up stairs.
What I have researched already:
So far I have contacted several companies for test samples and some even printed models I sent them. Based off the samples I have received, the order I would rank the quality of prints are as follows.
1. Makeit Pro-L
2. Raise3D N2
3. Airwolf Axiom Dual
The reason I have not just jumped on the Makeit Pro-L is because I also received a sample from Form Labs and the quality seems to blow away the FDM printers. The only problem is the build volume is too small and I am unsure how the resin will handle the heat from the inserts while drilling.
Please let me know if there is something else I should check out before purchasing.
I understand the Roboze is a popular choice in the aviation sector due to it’s ability to print in materials that need a high temperature nozzle. The three you have shortlisted though are all good choices based on your criteria.
cobnut
3
Hi @mhemling33 not sure if it’s you or me that’s confused… the Makeit Pro-L is an FDM machine, not SLA. FormLabs are known mostly for their SLA printing machines, so was it an SLA print demo you got from them (which the Makeit Pro isn’t) or are you confusing the Makeit with an SLA machine, or am I confusing everything?
If it’s build volume you’re after, have you looked at the GMax 1.5XT? Quite a long way under your budget, but you could buy two (or three!) and don’t underestimate the usefulness of having multiple machines. 3D printing is slow and it’s going to be painfully slow for large prints, so as long as the quality is fit for purpose, it can be a better decision to go for more machines over one machine with possibly negligible (or unimportant) quality increases.
Why not buy a Leapfrog Creat HS XL it dual printer with an high volume and pricing is very atractive
pricing is good and a lot of customers have bought one in automotive industry and Technical Universities
Just give me a mail if you want moer info : info@3dscaleworks.nl
cheers
John
