3D printers & other equipment for the makerspace

Start your own makerspace - within your own four walls!
3D printers are no longer just used in industry: You too can benefit from this innovative technology! With a 3D printer, you can design your own jewellery, print spare parts, customise models or build cool gadgets for everyday use - all from the comfort of your own home. The possibilities are almost limitless - and easier to realise than you think.

Here you can find out what 3D printing actually is, how it works and what you need to know to get started!

How does 3D printing work?

There are two main methods of 3D printing: FDM printing (fused deposition modelling) and resin printing, also known as SLA or DLP printing. Both work additively, i.e. your object is built up layer by layer - but the technology behind them is different.

In FDM (fused deposition modelling) printing, your object is created layer by layer from molten filament. It all starts with a 3D model that you either design yourself (e.g. with Blender or Fusion 360) or download from an online database such as Thingiverse or Printables. Your 3D printer processes this file using slicer software, which divides the print path into individual layers. The printer then heats the filament, usually a thermoplastic material, and applies it to the print bed in layers via a heated nozzle. In this way, your model grows layer by layer. To keep the whole thing stable and still save material, the printer works with a grid structure (infill) inside your object. This allows you to save filament without compromising on stability.

Resin printing (SLA = stereolithography, DLP = digital light processing) works with liquid synthetic resin (resin), which is cured layer by layer under UV light. This gives you extremely fine details and smooth surfaces that are almost impossible to achieve with FDM printing. This is how resin printing works: Your 3D model is again broken down into layers using a slicer. The liquid resin is filled into a tank. While with SLA printers a laser hardens the resin with pinpoint accuracy, with DLP printers a projector exposes a complete layer at a time. The model is gradually created upside down on the building platform and the object slowly emerges from the resin bath. With resin printing, it is important to know that your model must be cleaned (e.g. in isopropanol) and post-cured (UV light or special curing stations) after the entire process to ensure that it remains stable and durable.

FDM printers are great if you want to print large, functional parts and value a more affordable system. Resin printers offer you maximum detail and the best surface quality, but involve a relatively large amount of post-processing. What do you think suits you better?

What can you do with a 3D printer?

The possible uses of 3D printers are impressively diverse. Here are a few ideas:

• Printing prototypes and functional samples,
• Spare parts and repair aids for the home,
• Making modelling parts and miniatures,
• Design jewellery and accessories yourself,
• Create architectural models and concept designs,
• design artistic sculptures or figures,
• develop practical gadgets for everyday life,
• and much, much more!

What you should look out for when buying a 3D printer!

Here are the most important factors you should consider when choosing an FDM 3D printer, in addition to quality:

► Print space: This indicates the maximum size of the print object. For beginners, 200 x 200 x 200 mm is usually sufficient.

► Open or closed installation space: For ABS & other high temp materials you often need a closed housing to avoid temperature fluctuations.

► Maximum print speed: This value indicates how fast the nozzle can move. However, the maximum value is only reached over longer distances. The printers usually travel slower than the maximum speed.

► Layer height (layer height): The smaller the layer height, the finer the surface. Standard: 0.2 mm, high-detail: up to 0.05 mm.

Spare parts & upgrades

Today, there is a huge selection of accessories and spare parts for most 3D printers. This allows you to customise your printer and adapt it to your projects as required. There are practically no limits to your creativity. And if something goes wrong while tinkering or upgrading: spare parts such as nozzles, heating beds, hotends or mainboards are quickly available so that your 3D printer is ready for use again in no time at all!

Ever-expanding range so that you can set up your makerspace in the best possible way!

But we're no longer just about 3D printers - even though we have plenty of them! We offer you a huge selection of technology with which you can fully equip your own makerspace. From 3D scanners and laser cutters to milling machines and cutting plotters, you'll find everything you need for your creative projects. You can combine all of these machines and perfectly harmonise your workflow. This turns your 3D printer workstation into a complete production station!