10 Things You Should Know Before Buying 3D Printers

So you’ve decided to get yourself a 3D printer after hearing about all the amazing things it can create. Imagine being able to print your own custom phone case, cosplay materials, figurines, and even musical instruments! The possibilities are endless.

But before you rush into the world of 3D printing, there are a few important things you need to know.

There are many different 3D printers available on the market today, each with its own set of specifications and capabilities. It’s essential to understand these differences and choose the printer that best suits your needs.

Furthermore, there are some technical aspects of 3D printing that you should familiarize yourself with. To help you make an informed decision about your first printer purchase, I’ve put together a list of 10 key things you need to know.

10 Affordable 3D Printers That Won’t Break the Bank

Long ago, 3D printers were seen as a fancy new invention. But now, they’re an everyday sight. Everywhere you look, people are talking about these incredible machines that can bring your ideas to life. Let’s dive into the world of 3D printers and discover the best ones you can buy without emptying your wallet.

1. Different Types of 3D Printers to Choose From

When we mention 3D printing, we’re actually talking about a wide range of technologies used to create real-life objects. The most commonly mentioned type – and the one you’ve probably heard about the most if you follow the news or are into DIY projects – is called Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM).

What is Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)?

FDM is a pretty cool way to bring your designs to life. It’s like magic! First, we take some plastic and heat it up until it melts. Then, we squeeze out tiny layers of melted plastic to build up our object, layer by layer. It’s a bit like building a house with Lego bricks – one brick at a time.

Now, most of the 3D printers we’ll discuss in this post are based on FDM technology. Why? Because they’re easy to find and they won’t cost you an arm and a leg. Trust me, you don’t have to be a magician to afford one!

Did you know that there are two other types of 3D printing? They are called Stereolithography and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). Compared to FDM, these methods are more expensive.

Stereolithography

With Stereolithography, the process is similar to FDM in that it uses an additive process. However, instead of extruding plastics, Stereolithography uses an ultraviolet light beam to harden a model from a pool of photosensitive liquid. This technique allows for a higher quality printout.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

Have you ever wondered how 3D printers work? There are different methods, and one of them is Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). It’s a bit similar to a method called stereolithography, but with a twist!

Instead of using UV light beams and liquid like stereolithography, SLS uses lasers and powders. It’s pretty cool, right? The laser melts the powder and creates a layer of the material being printed. It’s like magic!

What’s really exciting about SLS is that it can even print metal objects. Can you believe that? This is something the other two processes can’t do. It opens up a whole world of possibilities! Imagine all the incredible things we can create with metal.

2. Building vs Buying: Making Your Own 3D Printer

Hey there! If you’re curious about 3D printing, you might be wondering if you should build your own printer or buy one already assembled. Well, let me break it down for you.

In the world of 3D printing, we have a community filled with creators and makers – people just like you, who love to roll up their sleeves and take on a challenge. So it’s no surprise that many folks are excited about the idea of building their very own 3D printer. And guess what? You can too!

If you decide to go down the DIY route, there are building instructions and 3D printer kits available online. These resources can guide you through the process step-by-step, making it easier than ever to bring your dream printer to life.

If you’re thinking about getting a 3D printer, you have a couple of options. Building your own printer can be more affordable than buying one, but it requires time and effort. If you don’t have the time, you can always buy a pre-assembled printer.

The decision between building or buying a printer depends on your interests and needs. Do you enjoy tinkering with technology and customizing your devices? Or do you just want to start printing right away without any extra hassle?

3. Price

The price of a 3D printer is an important factor to consider. Printers vary in price depending on their quality and features.

Higher-quality printers usually cost above $1000, and professional-grade printers can even exceed $2000. For example, the MakerBot series is known for its high price tag. However, if you’re new to 3D printing and want to test the waters, there are simple models available for as low as $100.

As printers gain popularity and face stiff competition, their prices are expected to decrease while their quality continues to improve. It’s important to note that these printers do not come with the necessary materials needed to print your products.

You will need to acquire the materials separately, as different products may require different materials.

4. Materials used for printing

There are two materials that are typically used for 3D printing: Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). Both of these materials are thermoplastics, which means they become soft and malleable when heated, and frozen when cooled.

These materials are usually sold in 1kg (2.2lbs) spools of filament, with prices ranging around $30.

So, let’s dive in and examine the pros and cons of these two materials.

Poly Lactic Acid (PLA)

PLA is a special kind of plastic made from corn starch, which makes it a fantastic choice for beginners who want to try their hand at creating things. It’s also perfect for crafting small, uncomplicated items for your home. Here are some of its key features:

• One option for 3D printing materials is Polylactic Acid (PLA). It is biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
• PLA cools down quickly, which helps to prevent problems like model warping.
• It is available in both solid and translucent colors, which gives your printed objects a glossy appearance.
• However, PLA has a couple of disadvantages. Its low melting point can cause models to deform under high heat. Additionally, it can be challenging to work with if you need joints and interlocking parts.

Another option is Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS).

ABS is a type of plastic that is derived from petroleum. People often choose ABS because it is strong and flexible, similar to Lego bricks (which can actually be made using 3D printers).

When it comes to creating interlocking pieces, I find that {KEYWORDS[0]} makes the job much easier. Its flexibility allows for effortless construction and handling, giving me more freedom to bring my ideas to life.

Another benefit of {KEYWORDS[0]} is its high melting point. This means that the objects I create are less likely to deform when exposed to high temperatures. I can rest assured that my creations will maintain their shape and integrity, even under intense heat.

However, it’s essential to consider a couple of drawbacks when working with {KEYWORDS[0]}. Firstly, it takes longer to cool compared to PLA, another common material used in 3D printing. As a result, models made from {KEYWORDS[0]} are more susceptible to warping. It requires extra care and attention to ensure that the cooling process is carried out properly to minimize warping.

Additionally, when working with {KEYWORDS[0]}, it’s crucial to be aware that it emits fumes during the printing process. This is a disadvantage that needs to be considered, especially if you’re working in an enclosed space or have sensitive respiratory systems. Proper ventilation and precautions are necessary to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

How to Choose

Now that you’re aware of the benefits and drawbacks of {KEYWORDS[0]} and PLA, it’s important to make an informed decision about which material is best suited for your final product. Consider the specific requirements and characteristics of your project. From there, you can determine which type of printer is suitable for your needs. Keep in mind that not all printers can handle both materials; some are compatible with only one type. So choose wisely!

5. Safety

When it comes to 3D printing, there are a few things you should keep in mind to stay safe.

Dealing with Heat

The most important thing you need to remember is that you’re dealing with heated plastics. The extruders, plastics, and sometimes even the print bed itself can become very hot, which can lead to severe burns if you’re not careful.

Keep in mind that some printers don’t have an enclosure around the print area, so you need to be extra cautious when using these printers.

Watch out for Fumes

It’s important to make sure that your 3D printer is in a well-ventilated room. When you’re printing, there will be fumes, especially if you’re using ABS plastics.

People say these fumes can be pretty strong, but there’s not much research on how they affect your health.

But it’s better to be safe than sorry, especially if you’ll be using 3D printers a bunch.

Choosing the Right Plastic for Food Safety

Did you know that 3D printers can make all sorts of things for the kitchen? It’s pretty cool! But when it comes to food safety, we need to be careful. Most of the plastics used in 3D printing, like ABS and PLA, are usually safe for food. However, if there are any weird additives mixed in, those might not be safe.

Oh no, there’s another thing to worry about! You see, objects made with FDM-type 3D printers have a bumpy surface. Those bumps can trap bacteria and make it hard to keep things clean. Yuck! To make them safer, you can try coating the objects, but honestly, it’s better to limit how much you use 3D printed stuff in the kitchen.

Picking the Best Quality Prints

If we want our 3D printed objects to look amazing, we need to pay attention to two things: print resolution and print speed.

Print resolution is all about how much detail the printer can create. It’s measured in microns – a smaller number means more detail in your objects. So, if you want your prints to look super fancy, pick a printer with a high-resolution.

Did you know that there are other things besides the resolution that can impact the speed at which a printer can print? It’s true! One of these factors is the acceleration and deceleration of the printer itself. By adjusting the acceleration and deceleration settings, the printer can prevent shaking and maintain a steady speed during printing. This is important because a shaky printer can lead to blurry or distorted prints. So, the next time you’re wondering why your printer isn’t printing as fast as you’d like, take a look at the acceleration and deceleration settings. They just might be the key to unlocking faster print speeds!

But in the end, the best way to judge a printer’s quality is by looking at what it produces. Before making a purchase, you can find photos online that show the final output of 3D printers.

7. Getting a 3D Model

When it comes to getting a 3D model, you have two options: you can create one yourself or download a pre-made model blueprint from the internet.

If you choose to create your own model, there are various software options available, both free and paid, that can assist you in bringing your creation to life. You can even learn 3D modeling if you’re interested.

Learning how to model in a computer can be a tough task. It takes time and effort to really get the hang of it. But don’t worry, there are websites out there that can help you out. These sites have 3D models of all kinds of things, made by people who love this stuff.

All you have to do is a quick Google search and you’ll probably find what you’re looking for.

8. STL Files

An STL file (STereoLithography) is the standard file format for turning your 3D model into a real thing. You can create this file using most CAD programs. So if you’re making your own 3D models, chances are the software you’re using can make an STL file for you.

So, here’s the thing: an STL file holds all the important details for creating a 3D model. It breaks the model down into a bunch of triangles and gives the printer the XYZ coordinates it needs to build the actual object, layer by layer.

9. Slicing Software

Alright, once you have your hands on an STL file of the model you want to print, you gotta run it through some slicing software. You know what this software does? It basically tells your printer how to print the model.

Here’s the deal: it gives the printer instructions on how many layers to use, where to begin, and which parts of the model should be filled or hollow.

If you’re looking to dive into the world of 3D printing, you’ll be glad to know that there are plenty of software options available to assist you. Some printers even come with their own software, like MakerBot’s MakerWare.

10. Connect with the Community

One of the best parts about exploring a brand new tech trend is the online community that forms around it. And 3D printing is no exception!

Take a look online to find a community of fellow 3D printer owners who specialize in the same brand as you. Connecting with this community could provide you with valuable insights and help you find answers to any questions you have about your specific printer.

If the community is small or, worse yet, non-existent, you should be wary of that brand. It’s a warning sign that something may not be right.

To make a smart investment, take the time to learn more about the brand and its competitors. This will give you a better understanding of what you’re getting into.

The price of 3D printers is a major factor in determining their popularity. The quality of the output is the main driver of the price.

Generally, higher-quality printers can cost over $1000, and professional ones can even exceed $2000, like the MakerBot series.

But if you’re just starting out with 3D printing, you can find simple models for as low as $100. It’s a great way to get your feet wet without breaking the bank.

As 3D printers become more popular and competition increases, the prices of these devices are sure to go down while the quality improves. It’s an exciting time to be involved in this field!

However, it’s important to note that when you purchase a 3D printer, it doesn’t come with the materials you need to print your creations. You’ll have to buy these materials separately. The reason for this is that different products may require different materials, so it’s best to acquire them on your own.

4. What materials do you need?

There are two types of materials used for 3D printing: Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). These materials are known as thermoplastics, which means they become soft and malleable when heated, and then they freeze and solidify when cooled.

You can purchase these materials in the form of 1kg (2.2lbs) spools of filament. They usually cost around $30 per spool. It’s an essential investment if you want to bring your 3D printing ideas to life!

Hey there! Today, I want to talk to you about two types of materials: Poly Lactic Acid (PLA) and Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). Let’s break it down and explore the pros and cons of each.

Poly Lactic Acid (PLA)

First up, we have PLA. It’s a special kind of plastic made from corn starch, which makes it environmentally friendly. PLA is perfect for beginners who are just starting to get into crafting. You can use it to create small and simple household items. Here are some other things you should know about PLA:

• Biodegradable and environmentally friendly
• It cools quickly, preventing issues with model warping
• Comes in solid and translucent colors, giving printed objects a shiny appearance
• Drawback: Its low melting point can cause models to distort under high heat
• Drawback: It is challenging to work with if you need joints and interlocking parts

Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)

ABS is a type of plastic made from petroleum. It is a popular choice because of its strength and flexibility – just like Lego bricks (which can actually be made using 3D printers, in case you didn’t know).

• One advantage of ABS is its flexibility, which makes it easier to create and work with interlocking pieces.
• Another advantage is that ABS has a higher melting point, so your creations will be less likely to deform under high heat.
• However, there are a couple of disadvantages:
• ABS takes longer to cool compared to PLA, and as a result, models made from ABS are susceptible to warping.
• ABS also emits fumes during printing, which can be a concern.

How to Choose

If you are deciding between ABS and PLA, you need to consider which material is suitable for your final product. Once you have determined that, you can then choose which type of printer you should buy.

Remember, not all printers can accept both materials – some will work with only either one type.

When it comes to the size of the filament – whether it’s 1.75mm or 3mm in diameter – it actually doesn’t make much of a difference in terms of the end result. But the majority of popular printer brands use 1.75mm filament, so I would recommend starting with that.

5. Safety

When it comes to 3D printing, there are a few safety issues that we need to be aware of.

Playing With Heat

The most important thing you need to remember is that you’re dealing with hot plastics. The extruders, the plastics themselves, and sometimes even the print bed can get really hot, and if you’re not careful, you can get burned pretty badly. Some printers don’t have an enclosure around the print area, so you need to be extra cautious when using them.

Watch Out for Harmful Fumes

Make sure you have good air flow in the room where you keep your 3D printer. When you print things, there might be fumes that come out, especially if you’re using ABS plastics. People say the fumes can be really strong, but nobody really knows for sure if they’re bad for your health. It’s a good idea to be careful anyway, especially if you’re going to be using 3D printers a whole bunch.

Food-Safe Plastic: Keeping Your Kitchenware Healthy

Did you know that 3D printers can make all sorts of things for your home, even useful things for your kitchen? It’s true! But when it comes to using 3D printed objects for food, there are a few things you need to be aware of to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Let’s talk about the types of plastic that are commonly used in 3D printing: ABS and PLA. These plastics are generally considered safe for food use. However, it’s important to note that some additives might be included in the printing process that could potentially be unsafe if they come into contact with food. So, it’s always a good idea to check with the manufacturer before using 3D printed kitchenware.

Another thing to consider is the surfaces of 3D printed objects. Most 3D printers create objects with what’s called FDM technology. These objects can have small holes and gaps on their surfaces, which can be perfect hiding spots for bacteria. While you can apply a protective coating to the object to make it safer to use, it’s generally a good idea to limit the use of 3D printed kitchenware altogether, just to be on the safe side.

Ensuring High-Quality Prints

Now, let’s talk about how to get the best results from your 3D printer. There are two key factors to consider: print resolution and print speed.

First, let’s talk about print resolution. This refers to how detailed and precise your prints will be. A higher print resolution means more layers and finer details, which can result in a better overall quality. However, higher resolutions also mean longer print times, so you’ll need to find a balance that works for you.

The second factor to consider is print speed. Print speed refers to how fast your printer can create an object. Faster print speeds can be great when you’re in a hurry, but they can also lead to lower print quality. So, it’s important to find the right balance between speed and quality.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can create high-quality 3D printed objects that are both safe and beautiful. Happy printing!

The level of detail a printer can achieve is called print resolution. It is measured in microns, with smaller numbers indicating higher levels of detail in the objects you create. I’m not entirely sure how they determine these things, but it’s fascinating!

Print speed, on the other hand, refers to how quickly a printer can move its extruder. The higher the print speed, the faster the printer will be able to print. It kind of makes you wonder what the fastest printer in the world is, doesn’t it? It’s worth mentioning that other factors can impact print speed, such as the acceleration and deceleration of the printer. These features help prevent the printer from shaking during the printing process.

But in the end, the real test of a printer’s quality is its output. Before making a purchase, you can check out online photos that showcase the final results of 3D printers.

7. Getting a 3D Model

When it comes to getting a 3D model, you have two options: you can either make one yourself or download a pre-made blueprint from the internet. If you choose to create your own model, there are various software options available, both free and paid, that can help you bring your creation to life. And if you’re interested, you can even learn 3D modeling yourself.

Learning how to create computer models can be a challenging task that requires time and effort to master. But don’t worry, there are websites out there that offer pre-made 3D models created by talented enthusiasts from all over the world. With just a quick search on Google, you can easily find the exact item you’re looking for.

8. STL Files

An STL file (which stands for STereoLithography) is the standard file format used to transform your 3D model into a physical object. Most CAD programs have the capability to generate an STL file, so if you’re creating your own models, chances are your software can export one for you.

So, here’s the deal: an STL file is like a blueprint for making a 3D model. It’s got all the info the printer needs to bring that model to life. But here’s the cool part: the model is actually made up of a bunch of triangles. And the printer uses a list of XYZ coordinates to build each layer of the object, one by one.

9. Slicing Software

Alright, now that you’ve got your STL file ready to go, it’s time to use some slicing software. This software is like the boss that tells your printer how to bring your model into the real world. It gives the printer instructions on things like how many layers to use, where to start printing, and even which parts should be solid or hollow.

There are many software options available to assist you with this task, and some printers even come with software included. One popular choice is MakerBot’s MakerWare software.

10. Community

One of the great things about new technology trends is that they often come with dedicated online communities. This is true for 3D printers as well. Take some time to search online for a community of people who own the same brand of printer you’re interested in. You’ll find a wealth of knowledge and answers to any questions you may have about how to use and navigate the printer.

When I see a small or nonexistent community around a brand, it sets off warning bells in my mind. It makes me question whether this brand is reliable or worth investing in. If there aren’t many people using the brand, it makes me wonder why.

But don’t worry, I’ve got a simple solution for you. If you want to make a smart investment, all you need to do is learn more about the brand and its competitors. By doing your research, you’ll have a better understanding of what you’re getting into.