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Here is how I printed a propeller for my mixer using my first budget 3D printer. It has already been drawn using Fusion 360. The process involved choosing Make -> 3D Print, then selecting the propeller and clicking OK. This hands it off to Simplify 3D, the software that actually ran the printer. Within Simplify 3D the object can be positioned on the bed. A moving slider can animate how the printing will be done, layer-by-layer. Finally, after making sure it is connected to the printer, it is just a matter to click to initiate. That begins the process of preheating the printing bed and head, which took about 5 minutes. After that, the actual printing takes about 10 minutes.
An example of how handy the ability to print in 3D can be. The worn-out stainless propeller costs $300 to replace. But the size and pitch of the blades is not right anyway. So I draw them using Fusion 360 and print them in PLA plastic, enabling experimenting with different sizes and pitches. While I could have one printed in stainless at shapeways.com I do not need to because these plastic ones are surprisingly durable. How about getting a tight fit on the shaft? No problem. I measured this shaft with callipers and printed that size. It was a little tight so I printed it slightly larger and it fits very tightly. One issue: If you mix slurries with hot water the blades will bend and the collar will loosen. If you would like this STL format file (for 3D printing in your slicer software), it is available in the Files manager in your Insight-live.com account.
Glossary |
3D Printer
Standard 3D printers (not clay 3D printers) are incredibly useful in ceramic production and design, bringing difficult processes within reach of potters and hobbyists. |
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