Page 1 of 1

3D printers

Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2026 9:28 am
by chris
Does anyone know much about them? Are they any good for printing parts. I need a clock cover for the pop up and was thinking if this is a way forward.

Re: 3D printers

Posted: Wed Jun 24, 2026 5:29 pm
by katmarch
We have an old makerbot at work I think what you can print depends on what filament it can use.

https://www.thingiverse.com/ is a good source of files for things you can make.

Re: 3D printers

Posted: Thu Jun 25, 2026 12:36 pm
by Bob1000
We use them for bits at work...brilliant for some stuff, not so good for others.
They normally need an .stl file ( a 3d drawing) of the component to run the printer, but I think some places can do the design for you as well.
From experience the parts are pretty good quality, and a good price too, but there are loads of different filaments, so get advice from the printer as to what you need.
You can even 3d print in solid metal now too, but not tried that yet....

Re: 3D printers

Posted: Thu Jun 25, 2026 7:54 pm
by chris
Thanks for the replies

Re: 3D printers

Posted: Fri Jun 26, 2026 11:29 pm
by chris
How are the stl files created?

I have more or less decided on the printer

Re: 3D printers

Posted: Sat Jun 27, 2026 7:54 am
by katmarch

Re: 3D printers

Posted: Sun Jun 28, 2026 3:47 pm
by Uncle Bob
chris wrote:
Fri Jun 26, 2026 11:29 pm
How are the stl files created?
I have more or less decided on the printer
AutoDesk has a free version of Fusion 360 for personal use (visit their website to download) and also they also have a an excellent YouTube training guide at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sw4001e ... kB&index=2 - it's multiple videos. If you are making bike parts probably Fusion 360 is what I would use.

UB