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 reinforced 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. The bottle tops should slide freely over the pvc pipe but not have too much play, certain brands have better quality.
The fittings will soften in the boiling water after about two minutes, the water needs be at a pretty good rolling boil and you have to work fast before the plastic re-hardens, the key is to not deform the bottle top, I was successful on my first try.
The 1/2" pvc used for the uprights will need to be cleaned and polished, acetone works well though it evaporates quickly and is volatile. After they are cleaned and all of the manufacturer's ink is removed they can be polished with silicone based tire shine.
Also the plastic has good wear resistance and slides easily over the pvc.
Motor mounts
The motor mounts can be made from any type of sheet materials including HDPE plastic sheets that were made from recycled milk jugs or printed on another printer. The nema 17 motors just fit in between the fittings.
It's important to note that not all pvc fittings are the same dimensions and using all of the same parts from the same
manufacturer will ensure they all line up properly.
The Spectra line drives
The spectraline drives are made to be adjustable, easy to replace, durable, and cost effective. They consist of a threaded pvc fitting on the motor, a pulley with an adjuster at the top, and a retaining and tension system on the carriage. 65 pound test spectraline can be found at most major retailers and will glide easily over the pulley without damaging it.
The tension system can be adjusted so there is little to no backlash after the strings are properly broken in.
