3D printing

[ctopher]

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

 

[mmurphy50]

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.

 

[ctopher]

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

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

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.

 

[TZellers]

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.

 

[ctopher]

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.

 

[rocheey]

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