StrongPrint - The DIY Metal 3D Printer

thingiverse

StrongPrint is an affordable DIY metal 3D printer designed and built at the Artilect Fablab in Toulouse, France. It's based on the TIG process and is an excellent option for those who are interested in DIY metal 3D printing. For more details about StrongPrint in English, visit http://reprap.org/wiki/StrongPrint. If you prefer French, check out http://reprap.org/wiki/StrongPrint/fr. You can also read articles on 3Dprint.com (http://3dprint.com/4787/3d-metal-printer-600-euros/) and 3D Natives (http://www.3dnatives.com/strong-print-3d-metal/). The printer consists of an enlarged Rostock modified with a magnetic effector and cut to use a cheap 160A inverter MMA power source. The spool holder is available from Iron_Momo (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:335662/#files). Wire feed was one of the most challenging aspects to get right, but the team has managed to find a solution that works well. They use 0.6mm steel wire for MIG. This printer is still in its experimental stage and will continue to evolve. The current phase involves testing and setup, including arc ignition, power and speed control, metal deposition, and stacking layers. Work has also been done on the printer's movement mechanism, fixed torch and nozzle holder, wire feed motor, wire nozzle holder and positioning device, TIG torch modification, power source, shielding of wiring, wire roll holder including brake and damping mechanism, control board shielding, and ignition GCode command. Future updates will include an Arduino-controlled power source and HF ignition system. The StrongPrint Printer shares the same frame structure as the Enlarged Rostock, making assembly simple, much like putting together IKEA furniture. Instructions for assembly can be found in the original text. The Strong Print Printer is designed and made at Fablab Artilect (https://artilect.fr/). Design details will be provided on http://reprap.org/wiki/StrongPrint (page still under construction).