3d printers - buy/rent

[woopwoop]

Does anyone have experience of 3d printers?

I've made a prototype of a device and it works, but would really like to make the prototype much more professional.

Briefly used CAD software 10 years ago and have seen the printers on the telly, that's about it!

I've seen http://www.makexyz.com/ where you can pay for someone local (US/UK) to turn your design into a product... but they charge based on filament volume and I'm not sure how to judge that or even how to use the CAD software correctly...

I've seen the makerbot devices for between $2-3k but still steep to buy.

Anyone with experience here? From the software/hardware/filament to buy/rent options.

 

[Edwin]

If you do a bit of Googling around "rapid prototyping" or "3d printing" (not "3d printers") you may be able to come across a company that will make your prototype for you - if you're not 100% sure what you're doing, you're probably better off paying for "printing + expertise" rather than burning through reams of filament experimenting and potentially getting stuck.

For instance (I know nothing about these companies, just found them with a bit of searching around the topic)
http://www.3dprint-uk.co.uk/portfolio/pricing/
http://uk-3d.com/instant-quote/

 

[woopwoop]

Edwin you're such a helpful person. The search terms led me in a better direction. Really appreciate it.

Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 4

 

[Edwin]

Edwin you're such a helpful person. The search terms led me in a better direction. Really appreciate it.

No problem. Given that we own rapidprototype(s).co.uk your question immediately rang a bell

 

[Safeserps]

Makerbot

I have a Makerbot Replicator 2.
If you send me a .stl file I would happily print it for a modest fee.

 

[Safeserps]

3D Printing

Kids simply loved these, they looked even better with electric tea lights in them.

 

[woopwoop]

I have a Makerbot Replicator 2.
If you send me a .stl file I would happily print it for a modest fee.

That's really kind of you safe serps. Might take you up on the offer... i just need to learn cad first!

Can you comment on the strength of the printed products?

For example, if you printed something the shape of a hollow broom handle and held it horizontally, would it be able to hold a 5lb weight?

 

[Safeserps]

The printed parts are for the most part very strong, depending on the design and as long as the build has either got several "shells" (walls) to the shape or is solid then it would hold the 5lb.