3D PRINTING

I’ve talked about 3D printers and how useful they can be for making prototype parts and trying out ideas. The last time I looked at pricing on 3D printers a couple of years ago, a low end one, using plastic rods, was around $30,000. I thought it was a bit pricey and finish of the part a bit rough. Still very nifty, though.

I ran across the linked article in Wired magazine and noticed that prices have come down dramatically. The article talks about some systems, using liquid resins for a high quality finish, for under $3,000.

“New 3D Printers that don’t suck”

http://www.wired.com/design/2012/07/3-d-printers-that-dont-suck/

Be sure to watch the video of the homemade system making a hollow ball with holes in it.

It sounds like these are getting close to the point where every plant should have one. I can think of a million uses. (I want one for myself!)

Does anyone have experience with 3D printing in your plant? I’d be interested to hear about your experiences and comments.