Hi all,
I recently built a Prusa i3 (laser frame with the twelvepro frame sides) and whilst I like it as a printer, I'd like to build a delta based printer. I've not had the best of time with the i3. Whilst building it wasn't a problem, the constant issues, changes, tweaks, maintenance, and weak x-axis had me looking around at ways to make a more reliable printer that would be less prone to silly little issues. Don't get me wrong, I know this is the case with all RepRaps to some degree, from conversations with other i3 owners, it seems to be a common trend that it's got it's fair share of design problems.
Having done some research on it, I'm thinking a fairly non-complex designed delta might be the answer here. So I've been looking at the Rostock, 3DR and the Kossel, as well as a few variants of each.
What I'd like to be able to do, is pull as much from the i3 as possible. Ideally I want to be able to print as much of the delta, using the i3, and then use the i3's RAMPS setup, heated bed, etc. Theoretically if I can plan it all out correctly, the only expense I'll have is PLA and a few vitamins for the delta such as rods, screws, bolts, etc.
What I really want is a push in the right direction from those who've been working with deltas already, and could maybe give me some feedback on the (possibly/likely incorrect) conclusions I've drawn about a few of the delta models:
3DR
I like the 3DR for its pretty tidy design, and love the fact that the base and top of the frame can be printed - but at the same time would be a bit concerned about the lack of a heated bed, and the fairly small looking build area. I love the way all the electronics, right down to the endstops get hidden away.
Rostock
Then with the Rostock, it seems to have a standard sized build area, supports a heated bed, but relies on a lot of wood cutting, and looks a little unfinished. On the plus side, no huge plastic parts to print, I guess this does have the benefit that you can use pretty much any mdf for the base, so might work out cheaper?
Kossel
The Kossel looks very rugged and strong, and looks like it'd be pretty cheap to make given it uses a simple aluminium box-section style frame. Just like the 3DR, I love the way it's all enclosed and nicely packaged. The only downside I can see from initial investigation, is the lack of a heated bed, however I'm not 100% sure what's going on as from what I can tell the Kossel mini does have a heated bed, does it not?
I'd really be interested to know if I'm correct, or way off the mark with the above, or if there are any other deltas I should be looking at as well as those above.
Also, for what it's worth, as I've seen a few queries about this - I'm not using this in a professional capacity, I built a RepRap solely to learn and contribute as a hobby.
I recently built a Prusa i3 (laser frame with the twelvepro frame sides) and whilst I like it as a printer, I'd like to build a delta based printer. I've not had the best of time with the i3. Whilst building it wasn't a problem, the constant issues, changes, tweaks, maintenance, and weak x-axis had me looking around at ways to make a more reliable printer that would be less prone to silly little issues. Don't get me wrong, I know this is the case with all RepRaps to some degree, from conversations with other i3 owners, it seems to be a common trend that it's got it's fair share of design problems.
Having done some research on it, I'm thinking a fairly non-complex designed delta might be the answer here. So I've been looking at the Rostock, 3DR and the Kossel, as well as a few variants of each.
What I'd like to be able to do, is pull as much from the i3 as possible. Ideally I want to be able to print as much of the delta, using the i3, and then use the i3's RAMPS setup, heated bed, etc. Theoretically if I can plan it all out correctly, the only expense I'll have is PLA and a few vitamins for the delta such as rods, screws, bolts, etc.
What I really want is a push in the right direction from those who've been working with deltas already, and could maybe give me some feedback on the (possibly/likely incorrect) conclusions I've drawn about a few of the delta models:
3DR
I like the 3DR for its pretty tidy design, and love the fact that the base and top of the frame can be printed - but at the same time would be a bit concerned about the lack of a heated bed, and the fairly small looking build area. I love the way all the electronics, right down to the endstops get hidden away.
Rostock
Then with the Rostock, it seems to have a standard sized build area, supports a heated bed, but relies on a lot of wood cutting, and looks a little unfinished. On the plus side, no huge plastic parts to print, I guess this does have the benefit that you can use pretty much any mdf for the base, so might work out cheaper?
Kossel
The Kossel looks very rugged and strong, and looks like it'd be pretty cheap to make given it uses a simple aluminium box-section style frame. Just like the 3DR, I love the way it's all enclosed and nicely packaged. The only downside I can see from initial investigation, is the lack of a heated bed, however I'm not 100% sure what's going on as from what I can tell the Kossel mini does have a heated bed, does it not?
I'd really be interested to know if I'm correct, or way off the mark with the above, or if there are any other deltas I should be looking at as well as those above.
Also, for what it's worth, as I've seen a few queries about this - I'm not using this in a professional capacity, I built a RepRap solely to learn and contribute as a hobby.