Hi there!
I'm considering getting into 3D printing to make some custom aquarium parts for myself and other local hobbyists as a side hobby but I'm not too sure where to start TBH, or if it would be worth while. I'm not looking to make money but I would at least like it to be self-sustaining via selling some parts cheap to other hobbyists vs. a second money pit.
A few questions:
Printer: Any quality budget printer recommendations (<$500)? I'm thinking of something like this though I'm not sure if it would suit my objectives to print misc. aquarium parts. Does having a $1000+ printer give any significant edge in printing vs. this one for $250?
Filament: I've read PET, PETG, and ABS are all generally reef safe. Besides cost, is there any durability/strength (ex. filter sock holder bend breaking) or quality (finish/appearance) pro's vs cons for each material type?
Software: Is it reasonable to expect that I could design parts using free software vs. needing a $500+ license for Solidworks etc.? I can't see myself printing at a large enough scale anytime soon to justify paying a bunch for software.
Budget: Is $500 reasonable for all-in to get started or are there other costs I am overlooking?
thanks
I'm considering getting into 3D printing to make some custom aquarium parts for myself and other local hobbyists as a side hobby but I'm not too sure where to start TBH, or if it would be worth while. I'm not looking to make money but I would at least like it to be self-sustaining via selling some parts cheap to other hobbyists vs. a second money pit.
A few questions:
Printer: Any quality budget printer recommendations (<$500)? I'm thinking of something like this though I'm not sure if it would suit my objectives to print misc. aquarium parts. Does having a $1000+ printer give any significant edge in printing vs. this one for $250?
Filament: I've read PET, PETG, and ABS are all generally reef safe. Besides cost, is there any durability/strength (ex. filter sock holder bend breaking) or quality (finish/appearance) pro's vs cons for each material type?
Software: Is it reasonable to expect that I could design parts using free software vs. needing a $500+ license for Solidworks etc.? I can't see myself printing at a large enough scale anytime soon to justify paying a bunch for software.
Budget: Is $500 reasonable for all-in to get started or are there other costs I am overlooking?
thanks