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The purchase of the right 3D printer isn't a joke. Despite the enjoyment and education we get from using a 3D printer, choosing the best one is always a challenge. There are a variety of options available that are available and each one has their own advantages and disadvantages. After reading a post which recommended it for novices, I found it difficult to find my first 3D printer. Well I was not totally wrong but I just would have done more research before getting my first 3D printer. I've put together a list of elements that all hobbyists and enthusiasts must consider before deciding on one that is suitable to their preference. The volume of print:Every printer has its limitation, the size of print it can produce. Bigger the objects you are planning to print, the more robust and precise the printer must be. The Anet A6, a beginner printer, can only print objects with a size of 220x220x240mm (W LxH). Apparently this is not so big if you imagine printing real-life objects such as bust models, robotic arms and the like. Always ensure you have the largest print size before buying an 3D printer. AUTO/MANUAL LEVELING THE BED The process of leveling is among the most painful thing you need to deal with when working on an commercial 3d printer. It is the process of changing the temperature of the heating bed to ensure that the nozzle is not in contact with the floor. If you try this manually, it can be very painful. Although it may be enjoyable at the beginning but fun is gone after about three or four attempts. Auto leveling is an excellent solution. It levelizes the heating bed automatically for you and allows you to immediately begin printing. This will save you lots of time in the end and save you a lot of frustration but auto leveling printers come with a fat price. Types of FILAMENTS USED: Filaments are like fuel to a 3D printer. It is the material that is heated , then extruded out of nozzles to print desired objects. There are a variety of filaments that can be used to print 3D objects. But a specific 3D printer is usually limited and only work with a limited number of types of filament materials. Below is a table that I came across online that outlines the different types of filaments as well as their properties. NOZZLE SIZE: This is the component that melts the filament. In order to print the item you want, this Nozzle moves around the X three axes: Y, X, and Z Axes. Sizes of the nozzles in a 3D printer can vary between printers. The most common sizes for nozzles are 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.2mm. They are the ones that with 0.1mm produces high quality prints and 0.4mm being most commonly used. Also Nozzles made out of various materials like Brass, Steel, Titanium and so on are used for 3D printers. Printers with multiple extruders could be used to print several objects by using various materials. Multi-extruder printers can be expensive however they're extremely enjoyable to work with. RESOLUTION TO PRINT: If quality is important for you, print resolution is something you'll be very interested in. Print resolution determines how clear your print will appear. There are two types of resolutions you have to look into Vertical and XY resolution. The XY resolution is the distance that the motor of a stepper can travel for a given step. Vertical resolution, also known as the layer height refers to the thickness of the material that is used to print the object. The lower the resolution, the higher the quality and detail in the print will be. Also , objects printed at a lower resolution will have smooth surfaces with a higher cost of filament usage and time. SAFETY: There are a variety of risks with 3D printers. These include Hot extruders, hot bed, moving mechanical parts, toxic fumes from melting certain filaments and more. These factors must be considered when buying an 3D printer for kids or for your entire family. If so, you could select an enclosed 3d printing service in order to ensure that the user is not injured by the. But closed frame 3D printers comes with a high price cost compared to open framed counter components. COMMUNITY: You'll need lots of help as you venture into the world of 3D printing. Imagine having acquaintances who have tried the 3D printer that you purchased! They will be able to help you setup the printer and address any issues you have. That's what the community all about. It's always a good idea to buy 3D printer which has an extensive community behind. Forums, websites and social media groups are great places to connect with the community and get assistance or seek advice with your experience with 3D printing.
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