Chapter 14
Assembling the RepRap Extruder
IN THIS CHAPTER
Looking at thermoplastic extruders
Comparing syringe and paste-based extruders
Setting up for multicolor 3D printing
Explaining extruder operation and upgrades
In this chapter, we show you how to assemble a RepRap extruder and describe how it operates. Here, you find advice on keeping everything working well as you print. We look at alternative materials and explain how you can print with them on your RepRap. Then we show you how to perform multicolor printing and even describe some tricks that make it easier to achieve colorful prints of your own.
Thermoplastic Extrusion
The extruder is one of the most important parts of a 3D printer, so the quality and reliability of parts are critical.
You can make all the parts required for an extruder with basic tools and a lot of time, but it’s well worth paying for well-machined parts that fit smoothly together and won’t leak or melt on you.
All extruders are required to do the same job: Grip the round plastic filament and drive it in a controlled manner to the hot-end, where it’s ...
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