3D Printer Challenges with Build Area

[GWestphal]

Are there technical challenges that are keeping Makerbot et al from making an 18"x18"x18" build area or is it purely a business side, so they can release a slightly bigger machine each year?

 

[CycloWizard]

It's more expensive to produce something that's bigger, especially if you want the same resolution in the end product. Material expenditures would also increase per part, generally as the cube of the linear dimension. I believe Makerbot is trying to move towards desktop 3D printers, so it's unlikely they'll move to larger models. In other words, there aren't any technical reasons it can't be done. There are 3D printers that can produce complex architectural pieces the size of a gazebo (see the TED talk on the subject - very cool stuff). The problem is that such a printer costs millions, takes up tons of space, uses tons of material, and takes forever to print.

 

[Modelworks]

The only limitations are cost. The biggest cost is the material to make 3d models and that is where a lot of the research is going into. Some suggest wax, others pvc, UV resins.

 

[xboa721]

Most recent production cost gave a figure of about $30 per pound. So that's like about 60 bucks a kilo. Not particularly expensive. If "they" don't make one then it's more about low consumer demand for a certain configuration.

Here's an update...

http://www.engineering.com/3DPrinting/3DPrintingVideoPlayer/VideoId/2860/In-Short--Whats-New-In-3D-Printing.aspx

 

[gorobei]

the extruded heated plastic types do have some size issues. uneven cooling can cause warping as the deposited material contracts so if the part is so big that it retains too much heat, the layers can separate.
plus anything 18' tall will likely need a ton of support structures which is added cost. better to make smaller composite structures.

 

[videogames101]

gorobei nailed it. In my experience it's very difficult to keep the plastic cooling at an even pace when you start making larger objects. The heated platform method makerbot uses works well for increased horizontal size, but as you make taller and taller objects you have to start using tricks in your designs to keep them from warping beyond any sort usefulness. There are other methods than plastic extrusion that don't have this problem, which is how companies do scale them up, but generating heat to melt plastic is easy and keeps costs down, which is the major draw of the makerbot line.

I've never had a problem with the material cost, 2.2 lb rolls for ~$40 and they last quite awhile.