3D printing is hardly a niche thing anymore. What used to be a fun tool for a hobby has turned into something businesses worldwide can rely on. Whether for individual use or mass production, considering these things when shopping for 3D printers helps narrow down your choices.
Back to Basics
It doesn’t take years of studying or obtaining certificates to operate a 3D printer, but one should understand the device’s fundamentals. 3D printers are like computers; they need frequent updates and replacement parts to run efficiently.
A 3D printer with regular maintenance, cleaning, and updates may serve its owner for many years. The life expectancy of a 3D printer and its nozzle is around three years under light use; however, it may need a replacement within three months if you use the device often. Comfortably operating a 3D printer requires an in-depth familiarity with its functions.
The Materials
The final product is only as good as your materials—particularly your filament. There are many kinds of printing materials available nowadays. Learning how different materials perform in 3D printing will allow you to choose the one that works best for your project.
Each filament has pros and cons, but generally, polylactic acid (PLA) is the best place to start as a beginner. You can experiment with other materials once you get the gist of things. Finally, ensure the resources you like to use aren’t too hard to find.
Print Bed
A part of understanding the basics is learning what printer components are vital. A novice will quickly realize that the print bed must be of the highest quality because it significantly impacts the final print. Layer adhesion problems, inefficient temperature retention, sticking issues, and uneven surfaces are all symptoms of a subpar print bed.
Many people are moving toward glass print beds because of their low cost and ease of use. But regardless of which style you select, the condition of the printer bed will be a factor in the ease of use and reliability of your printer.
Price Doesn’t Dictate Quality
The price of a 3D printer may vary widely depending on the features, the brand, and the quality. Entry-level models can often provide sufficient quality and functionality for new users. But knowing that a heftier price doesn’t always indicate quality is critical.
Something more expensive may not be the right printer for your needs. Going with quality over price is the best decision with 3D printing. Luckily, the competitive market for 3D printing is thriving, so you will find better deals than you would have years ago.
Safety Concerns
Verify the 3D printer’s security features before using it. Being aware of and prepared for the potential dangers of 3D printing is crucial.
Make sure everyone who interacts with the printer knows how to use it properly. Consider a more family-friendly model if you plan on having young children in the house. While some printer types can get by without special chemicals, others have stringent requirements for ventilation and safety guards. In addition, you should always follow the guidelines laid forth in the manufacturer’s handbook.
Knowing what to consider when shopping for 3D printers gives you a guide to finding the most affordable printer. Offering great printers at the lowest prices is what 3D Printers Depot does best! A resin UV 3D printer is capable of incredible things—see for yourself!