Easy build delta printer
This will be a page documenting a delta printer design that can also be adapted to other designs that is made from inexpensive and easy to obtain parts, and can be made with simple hand tools. I will try to add, clarify and condense information as I get time.
http://reprap.org/wiki/File:Easybuild_delta_1.jpg
Overview:
This project is an attempt to build a 3d printer from nearly all plastic parts, using as many recycled parts as possible and reducing the cost of building a 3d printer significantly.
Although I have the means to buy a commercial printer I like the challenge associated with building my own and coming up with new ideas to overcome the obstacles associated with building something completely from scratch.
What this project is and what it isn't:
It is an easy way to build a rigid frame and low cost linear slide and other mechanical parts completely from scratch.
It isn't an industrial grade 3d printer.
The Frame
The frame consists of pvc pipe and fittings. PVC is easy to find, inexpensive, easy to work with and can be re-enforced to be strong and rigid.
Pvc is fairly strong when short pieces are used, but longer pieces can be used also if you use a metal rod or wooden dowel inside of the tubing.
The fittings allow an easy way to adjust for specific angles.
The Slides
The slides consist of 3/4" fittings that have the top of a plastic PETE water bottle inserted into them, the process involves inserting the fitting into boiling water to soften it then compressing the bottle top into it. Since not all bottles are made with the same tolerance they should be tested to fit before installing them in the fittings.
There are several advantages to using this type of slide such as low cost, easy to reproduce, they use recycled materials and have very close tolerance. Also the plastic has good wear resistance and slides easily over the pvc.
