Re: 3D Printing

For 3D printing, you want to check out:

www.reprap.org

Be prepared to be overwhelmed with a huge world of possibilities, solutions, ideas, opinions and information regarding 3D printing.

Using a milling machine as the XYZ "mover" for the "hot melt glue gun" i.e. extruder is called in this world a "millstrap". It can and has been done, but not commonly...the big knock against it is that is very slow compared to a belt driven approach...mills = lots of force and lead screws, 3D printers, less force required and typically belt drive/steppers. Also, there are *many* ways to make/buy an extruder (again, check out the reprap stuff). If you really are interested, I would recommend googling "nophead"...he is a premier 3D hobbyist and has written a world class blog on the evolution of his machines...tons of great information.

Enjoy,

Steve

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "ebiz_59" <chuckm@...> wrote:
>
> I helped some scouts (Boy) earn drafting badges recently, and to do so I had to spool up on some CADD. Luckily, a couple college kids came in and gave me a crash course on Solidworks. One of things I noticed is that Solidworks apparently will send a part directly to a 3D printer.
>
> Our little science club has a CNC minimill, and we make parts on it, but I also want to do CNC plasma, CNC router, CNC laser, Tshirt printer and now 3D printing. Too many projects (too little $$).
>
> OK -- finally to the point. If we create a few parts in Solidworks is there anyone on this list that would print them with for us?
>
> And a stupid question...is there any point in putting together a CNC printer using a hot glue gun? Or should I just blunder along looking for an extruder I can buy/build/beg.
>
> thanks, Chuck
>