Make: Volume 75

RePLAy 3D

Converting a 3D printer to print directly from

pellets requires tradeoffs: you’ll gain the ability

to reuse plastic material in exchange for some

performance limitations.Done carefully, these

modifications will open the door to closed-

loop recycling, economical pellet feedstock

($2–$5/kg), custom material blends, colors, and

properties — but they could reduce the usable

print volume and require slower print speeds due

to the toolhead’s weight. Ten things to consider:

1. Can the carriage handle the weight and

dimensions of the pellet extruder and hot end?

Consult your vendor(s). We mounted the Lily pel-

let extruder on a SmartAlu printer ...