6 Things To Consider When Buying A Large Format 3D Printer
There are several factors to consider before purchasing a large format 3D printer, like a BigRep. Choosing your 3D printer isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ situation, therefore it is important to consider and understand the following points;
- Space needed
- Electrical requirements
- Materials needed
- Software
- Support
- Budget
Let’s take a look at the top 6 things to consider when buying a large format 3D printer and how Emvio Engineering can help ensure you get the most out of your investment!
Application
“What do I want to 3D print and why?” Understanding this basic question first, will help you identify the benefits from owning a large-format 3D printer. For example; If 3D printing prototypes, will they need to be functional for form and fit checks or will they be more for design approval? If used for 3D printing tooling, where will it be used? In the production line or for CMM inspection? If 3D printing end use parts, what environment will it be used in and what tolerances does it require?
Secondly, you need to ask yourself, “how big are the parts I need to print?” The benefit of owning a large format 3D printer is that you can print big, or print several smaller parts.
However, you should be aware of the what is actually printable. We are here to assist you and to offer technical guidance.
Materials
When you compare materials that you will print with, you should consider if you can work with a closed or open material 3D printer. So, what’s the difference? Closed systems require you to only use that printer manufacturer material and locks you out of using 3rd party material (no experimenting for you!). An open-material system allows you to use any material within the spec of the printer. Who knows, you may even teach us something.
There are manufacturers that supply material that you must use in their system, and only their materials, which can be good and bad. Good, because the material properties are the same every single time, and bad, because it can be costly, and you may be limited to only those materials.
Materials
When you compare materials that you will print with, you should consider if you can work with a closed or open material 3D printer. So, what’s the difference? Closed systems require you to only use that printer manufacturer material and locks you out of using 3rd party material (no experimenting for you!). An open-material system allows you to use any material within the spec of the printer. Who knows, you may even teach us something.
There are manufacturers that supply material that you must use in their system, and only their materials, which can be good and bad. Good, because the material properties are the same every single time, and bad, because it can be costly, and you may be limited to only those materials.
Space And Environment
Yes they are big! Large-format 3D printing means big 3D printers. The obvious question is, “do you have the space for it?” You will need to consider access to the machines from all sides. Don’t forget access to the final position as well.
In our experience, each installation is different. It is based on this experience that we advise we plan the installation and seating as soon as possible. Although we can break some machines down to a certain extent, we prefer not to.
Depending on where the printer will sit, you might want to consider if you require a climate-controlled room. Will humidity be a factor in the space? Will there be dust floating around from other equipment, like in foundries? What material will I mainly be printing with? These factors can influence the outcome of the print. If the 3D printer is in a lab that is enclosed, then you can probably get away with an open frame system.
That said, with care and planning even an open frame machine can be made to perform. We have the knowledge to help.
Lastly, keep in mind that BigRep STUDIO and ONE 3D printers need 16 amp supplies, while the PRO needs 3 phase 415V.
Software
Almost every manufacturer has its own software that will set up the part to be built and sliced, but some 3D printing companies are also open source, allowing you to choose any slicing software. This comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Maybe you already have a software you are familiar with and want to continue using it. The software that comes with printers like BigRep, is pre-loaded with profiles for materials and settings for the printer, making it very user friendly to start prints quickly.
Some systems require a higher level of expertise to run, and others are plug and play. Let the manufacturer install and train you, regardless of what 3D printer you end up investing in. Understanding how to set up the build to reduce or eliminate warping, work with Emvio, your local support team for the best settings, part orientation, and material for the parts you are trying to print. Lean on our 5 star experience and expertise.
Software
Almost every manufacturer has its own software that will set up the part to be built and sliced, but some 3D printing companies are also open source, allowing you to choose any slicing software. This comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Maybe you already have a software you are familiar with and want to continue using it. The software that comes with printers like BigRep, is pre-loaded with profiles for materials and settings for the printer, making it very user friendly to start prints quickly.
Some systems require a higher level of expertise to run, and others are plug and play. Let the manufacturer install and train you, regardless of what 3D printer you end up investing in. Understanding how to set up the build to reduce or eliminate warping, work with Emvio, your local support team for the best settings, part orientation, and material for the parts you are trying to print. Lean on our 5 star experience and expertise.
Local Support
Having local support is often an invaluable asset to any 3D printing company. See our 5 star reviews and ask us any questions you have about support and training. When you invest in an industrial large-format 3D printer from Emvio, you get the level of support to match the price tag.
We endeavour to help you select a printer that is right for you. Emvio Engineering will help you get up and running quickly. Contact us for more information.
Budget
Investing in a large-format 3D printer requires more thought than most, but one of the most important questions to ask is, “what is my budget?” Try to be open when it comes to budget. Cutting costs to purchase a lower grade printer could be more of a headache than an investment.
There are ways you can also be creative, for instance, the 3D printer you need could be available on lease or even short term rental. Talk to us and we will advise you of the best options.
Budget
Investing in a large-format 3D printer requires more thought than most, but one of the most important questions to ask is, “what is my budget?” Try to be open when it comes to budget. Cutting costs to purchase a lower grade printer could be more of a headache than an investment.
There are ways you can also be creative, for instance, the 3D printer you need could be available on lease or even short term rental. Talk to us and we will advise you of the best options.
To conclude, Large-format 3D printers can help with so many applications, from prototypes to end-use parts. When starting your search for a large-format 3D printer, the best advice is to talk to those who are already doing it. Ask for their recommendations and then evaluate those solutions, to make sure it’s a good fit for your personal application and goals.
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