Build a 3D printer - Part 9: Heated bed
For the 3D prints to be able to stick to the printing bed, it needs to be heated. For this purpose we need to add a heated bed to our printer.
prusa i3
Build a 3D printer - Part 8: Endstops
The stepper motors must know when they have reached the limits of an axis. For this purpose we use endstops.
Build a 3D printer - Part 7: Extruder
We have now finished building our frame and one of the last mechanical parts that is left to assemble is the extruder.
Build a 3D printer - Part 6: X-axis
In this part we will focus on the X-axis, which is the most complicated axis of the printer. The X-axis is in direct connection to the Z-axis and it also supports the extruder.
Build a 3D printer - Part 5: Z-axis
Now that we have built the frame and& the Y-axis is operational, we can focus on the Z-axis. This will allow to lift the extruder and print new layers. As the layers can be 0.1 mm in thickness we will need a stepper motor that is capable to turning in small steps.
Build a 3D printer - Part 4: Frame support
The 6 mm aluminum frame cutout can now be mounted on the base of our frame. We could leave it as is, but adding the extra 10 mm threaded rod supports will give it that extra stability. The extra rods will also give us place to mount other additions to the printer.
Build a 3D printer - Part 3: Y-axis
When the base of the frame is built we can continue to finish up the Y-axis.
Build a 3D printer - Part 2: Base
In the first part we have investigated and assembled all the parts to build the frame. Now it is assembled to assemble the base of our 3D printer.
Build a 3D printer - Part 1: Inventory
Reprap is a very popular Open Source 3D printer. The idea of this project is of a self replicating machine that can create copies of itself. So when you want to build your own 3D printer, the first thing is to get a set of 3D printed parts. It is a good idea to dive into the RepRap community and get to know people that can help you acquire them.