3D printers and CAD drawings

General Composites Discussions Composites Talk
#1

Ok. I’m trying to branch out and learn something newish. I see a lot of 3D printers being developed and mainly one called the Mark 1 and now Mark 2 printers. They print chopped strands of fibers and continuous strands of fibers ranging from glass, carbon, and Kevlar.

Now without getting into any details since really I don’t know any, the company claims easy software to use. Although I’m not computer illiterate I’m also not up on many things like photoshop or any design programs out there.

My main questions are

  1. Do these printers only print using their own software files or could you transfer CAD files written by other programs into them to print.

  2. What beginning CAD program is a good starter one to use for a home user since I know some require a year or more subscription. I don’t mind paying a little money but I think one was in the thousands. I’m also looking for a program that I could potentially transfer the skills learned on and go work in a company.

  3. Would you recommend I learn on Mac or pc

  4. If the mark 2 is a good printer to just mess around with, would that be the printer you buy or is there another? I’m looking at the price range of 5k-10k

#2

  1. Many CAD programs can export to required file extension of the printer. We have created 3D models in Solidworks and exported them to the format required by the printers software.
    Find out what file extension is required by the printer and find suitable CAD software

  2. Solidworks is a great program, and from a beginners point of view easy to learn. The internet is littered with tutorials!

  3. Mac or PC is down to personal preference. CAD software can drain system resources so get something towards the high end

  4. 3D printers are a minefield. So many out there. Check user reviews and get hands on experience before making a purchase.

#3

In my opinion the best CAD right now that is affordable is Fusion 360 by Autodesk. It is free for hobbyist and small businesses making under $100,000 per year.

Fusion 360 has no problem making files for 3D prints. Add Meshmixer by Autodesk and you have a very powerful system to create new ideas.

If you use a 3D printing service you will have access to million dollar machines capable of printing in all kinds of materials without the upfront costs.

For basic printing at home an FDM printer that uses PLA filament like a Makerbot is a great low cost option.

An even bigger area to explore is the realm of “Additive Manufacturing” which is being rapidly embraced across many industries.

#4

I’m in search of a CAD program too. From what I’ve read it seems that ironCAD is reported to be one of the easiest to learn and get using and being productive. I don’t know enought about CAD in general though to comment on any short comings… Just what I’ve read as far as reviews…

#5

I’ve heard of fusion 360 also being great. I actually got my hands on solid works but am wary addition. I’ve been watching videos so far. I’m waiting for my computer to be repaired before I can see if things work and stuff.

I may try the fusion 360 though since that seems to be good also.

#6

Where did you find it for free to hobbyist? I saw a page that said $300/year for a limited version and $1500/year for full version. Pretty darn cheap compared to some others.

Looks like it has some nice feature based on the promo video. Wonder what the price is what the price is?

I’ve used Solidworks a bit and more recently Creo (Pro Engineering). Both programs have a ton of stuff. I found Pro-E a little easier to get started with but that may just be because I already learned some stuff with SolidWorks.

#7

Not sure if Autodesk advertise that Fusion 360 is free for hobbiest use, but it’s an option when you register the software when installing it. Student use is also free.

#8

Onshape is another option.

#9

I gave fusion 360 a try and it was SO much more intuitive than Ironcad! and FREE!!! since I’m just a hobbyist.