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3D printing

3D printing

3D printing

(OP)
I am in the process of trying to convince mngmt to purchase a 3D printer. Just curious, do any of you SolidWorks users use these printers? If so, which one do you use and how has it benifited your company? Thank you

RE: 3D printing

I am currently using a Z-corp Z406 printer to review prototype models of footwear.  This has saved us a ton of $$ because we can review a model in a matter of hours rather than weeks (the time it would normaly take to open a prototype mold).  Then if the model needs to be revised you only lose the cost of the RP part, not the cost of the mold.

RE: 3D printing

(OP)
Thanks for your input. That is the same model I am looking into right now.

RE: 3D printing

Unless you are making a lot of prototypes, http://www.quickparts.com/ could be an alternative.
I have used them before & they produced my parts quickly & accurately.

http://www.xpress3d.com/ is another company.

from (the City of) Barrie, Ontario.

Everyone has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film.

RE: 3D printing

You could lease one for abot $900 - $1k/month I think I was told.  Having said that, you'd have to utilize rapid prototyping alot to realize the savings versus shopping it out to a 3D service bureau.  Or you could do it on the side.....

The Print 3D option within SolidWorks isn't too bad, but you can get it cheaper.  

RE: 3D printing

(OP)
For my info....how can I get it cheaper elsewhere other than printing it myself? Printing from SW is just printing to a machine at approx .40 cents a cubic inch, and is quick.

RE: 3D printing

FYI, my company designs/manufactures a majority of the parts for ZCorp, and yes, they are done in SW.    :)

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