3D Printer Arrives

    The BFB-3000 3D printer arrived this week.  It weighs 70.5 lbs and will require help to remove from the carton.  It is about 20" on a side with quite a bit of metal internal structure and smoked plastic outer covering.  It is shown in the shipping box at right.  It was packed with custom foam inserts to support and separate the parts.  Not shown are the two top foam inserts and the plastic top for the machine.  Much of the internal workings are secured in place with plastic tie-wraps and foam wrappings that will need to be removed.
    The unpacking instructions point to a web site where the set-up and operating procedures are found.  They can be downloaded to a local pdf file on my computer to provide a ready reference in future.  A preview of the instructions revealed that it is not recommended to build ABS parts over 100mm as they tend to warp.  This will likely change the selection of primary materials to PLA where long parts are needed.

    A small storage rack was found at Lowes and the lower half of it provides a strong little stand for the printer.  The printer comes with a selection of PLA and ABS material on spools each in a separate cardboard box.  The shelves of the rack provide a convenient location for spool storage until needed.  The rack is being located next to the computer desk.
Once the printer is in place and set up, various objects will be printed from the design to ascertain the true capabilities of the printer and materials.
Alibre (http://www.alibre.com/3dprinters/default.asp) now sells several lower cost 3D printers, the least costly was just introduced, the BotMill which is listed at $1395 less the Alibre design software or $1494 with.  Alibre also offers the RapMan 3D printer kit (very similar to the BFB-3000), the BFB-3000 and the V-Flash (listed at $14,999!).  The BFB-3000 was selected for our projects seemingly to provide an affordable higher quality printing capability.   The BFB-3000 was ordered directly from the manufacturer, Bits From Bytes in the UK, alternatively it can be ordered through Alibre Design.