New member introduction

[rls1160]

Hello everyone,

My name is Rick,

I don't currently have a 3D printer and would like to add one to my shop. I am proficient in 3D design using Fusion 360. My shop space is primarily set up as a machine and fabrication shop. I do machining, welding and hot forging. I basically have a hobby makers space for subtractive manufacturing.

Since becoming proficient in 3D modeling the world of CNC and Additive manufacturing for product design is a new area of interest and opportunity.

At this point I have been designing items and sending them out for 3D printing.

My base case is to be able to generate prototypes and proof of concepts. Then eventually functional parts.

So with no 3D printer and no actual 3D printing experience what is the best path forward?

The new Prusa Core One machine is something I am currently considering.

I ran across the Voron kits and self sourcing path but, since I don't have 3D printing capability I am somewhat cautious about going down the Voron path.

Seems like I might be better off starting with something off the shelf. But my lack of knowledge and experience in this area is a handicap.

This may not be the right place to ask this question. I would appreciate any insights you all may have since this group of individuals has most likely already gone down the path I am just beginning to travel.

Thank you all,

Rick

 

[vinnycordeiro]

First of all: welcome!

We usually don't recommend building a VORON printer for complete 3D printing newcomers because there is a learning curve that comes with the territory: nomenclature, techniques, etc., but since you already have extensive knowledge of subtractive manufacture part of it will be helpful. Not much to be sincere, but still some knowledge applies. With a commercial 3D printer you can focus first just on the printing, learn how to design for 3d printing, how to optimize support use, how the printing orientation influences the part strength, how to enhance print quality itself, and so on.

That doesn't mean you can't dive on the 3d printing world directly with a VORON, it's just the learning curve will be steeper. As you mentioned, a Prusa CORE One is a really solid printer. Not the cheapest on the market, but the price is pretty fair and close to the direct competition, and with a solid company behind it to provide support and upgrades if/when they come, considering how they treat their staple product, the Prusa i3 line of printers. You can't go wrong with a Prusa printer.

And later you can use it to print the parts for your VORON yourself...

 

[rls1160]

@vinnycordeiro

Thank you for the reply and the welcome to the group. You are confirming my thoughts regarding entry into this space. I appreciate your insights on the Prusa printers.

I will most likely dive in with a reliable manufactured printer with solid support to get started and then upgrade or expand as things develop.


Rick

 

[claudermilk]

It's a solid option. I'm not familiar with the new Core One, but I did start my 3D printing journey with a Prusa Mini+ kit. I learned a ton on that printer & it launched my move to Voron. Prusa isn't the cheapest, but it's a good line of printers with excellent support.

 

[rls1160]

It's a solid option. I'm not familiar with the new Core One, but I did start my 3D printing journey with a Prusa Mini+ kit. I learned a ton on that printer & it launched my move to Voron. Prusa isn't the cheapest, but it's a good line of printers with excellent support.

Thank you for the response, I am most interested in the support and reliability. I'm sure there will be plenty of other things to learn and mange versus struggling with the equipment and poor support.

Rick