We have a "printer" at my school and would not mind printing some parts for people just to learn how it works. I'll get in touch with the tech guys and see what I need to do it. I did ask about cost and they said something crazy like $5 per cubic centimeter!
Tom On Nov 02, 2011, at 09:25 AM, Frank Pittelli <[email protected]> wrote:
Here are the disadvantages of 3D printing compared to molding parts: 1) ABS plastic is not as durable as the polyurethane we use when molding parts. 2) When molding, there's a 5 minute cycle time for a batch of parts (we do 8 parts per batch), each "part" will probably take at least 15 minutes on a 3d printer. 3) The plastic used by the printer is more expensive per pound than that used for molding. 4) If necessary, you can easily add a strip of fiberglass to molded parts to increase strength. That is not possible with printing. Basically, when it comes to mass-producing parts, molding is the cheapest, fastest and most flexible approach. As Joe said, the real winning combination is to use a 3D printer to make the master part, then make molds from them. We've done that for a couple of parts (drive cog, experimental pumps) and it works great. If you do get a Thing-O-Matic, you should expect a never-ending stream of 3D requests from Maryland for master part production (in exchange for mold making if you want). Frank P. On 11/1/2011 10:36 PM, Doug Conn wrote: > The Thing-O-Matic uses ABS plastic and produce parts the > required size and thickness. -- You are currently subscribed to the "R/C Tank Combat" group. To post a message, send email to [email protected] To unsubscribe, send email to [email protected] Visit the group at http://groups.google.com/group/rctankcombat
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