Second-generation 3D “self-replicating” printer, in distribution
RS positions itself as providing a unique offering that brings together all the elements that engineers need to bring a product from initial concept to prototype stage, with free design software for PCB, and for 3D mechanical structures (including, cases and enclosures); plus a range of development platforms; and single- or low-volume ordering of all parts. As part of that range, RS says it is the first source of a complete kit to build new Ormerod 2 low-cost self-replicating 3D printer. Open-source hardware design means easier assembly and performance improvements; when combined with free DesignSpark Mechanical 3D design software it provides, “a further boost to rapid prototyping.”
The new version of the RepRapPro Ormerod 3D printer offers versatility and functionality in an easy-to-assemble kit of parts. 3D printing enables electronic and mechanical engineers to quickly and easily realise early design concepts by creating fast-turnaround prototypes, potentially saving months in the product design cycle.
The RepRapPro Ormerod 2 is a single-colour low-cost 3D printing machine that is a full open-source and self-replicating and is one of the most versatile 3D printers available: it is easy to expand in functionality, fast to replicate and fast to assemble. All the RepRapPro printers, including previous machines such as the Ormerod and Mendel, are capable of self-replicating their own plastic components.
The Ormerod 2 brings several advantages compared to its predecessor, including a much simpler and more integrated assembly with improved instructions and wiring looms for simple plugin connection and no soldering necessary.
Other improvements come in the areas of the build bed, the y-carriage design, bed probe, extruder and power supply, as well as better emissions control and software support. For example, the Ormerod 2 design offers much easier adjustment of the bed level; improved y-axis belt location and retention delivers easier adjustment of belt tension; and a new bed probe now features a four-wire differential device, as well as providing much easier access to the extruder for cleaning purposes. In addition, the power supply is now a 100-240V worldwide input power supply and is a dedicated 12V supply, rather than being an adapted supply, and is more compact with its integration into the machine with no trailing wires. EMI emissions have also been reduced, resulting from a fully shielded design that meets the Class A CE mark.
Specifications of the Ormerod 2 printer include: build volume and speed of 200 x 200 x 200 mm and 1800 mm/min, respectively; a deposition rate of 33 cm³ per hour; accuracy and layer resolution of 0.1 mm and 0.01 mm, respectively; and ability to print using either PLA or ABS thermoplastic materials. The open-source software designed to run the machine is fully compatible with the original Ormerod printer and will run on a relatively low powered computer running Windows, Linux/Ubuntu or Mac OS.
The RepRapPro Ormerod 2 is shipped ready for assembly as a kit of parts containing all the required components. The complete kit includes: all printed parts; all hardware, including threaded and smooth rods, screws, nuts, washers, belts and bearings; pre-soldered and programmed electronics; MicroSD card and adapter; heated PCB build surface; motors; nozzle assembly and extruder drive mechanism; 100 m of 1.75 mm-diameter white PLA filament material (weighing approximately 300g); a 100-240V worldwide input power supply (plugs available for EU, UK, US and Australia); plus open-source software to run the machine including firmware for the electronics.
"The availability of the second generation Ormerod 3D printing kit and latest in a line of RepRapPro 3D printers demonstrates the significant success of its open source self-replicating concept," said Mark Cundle, Head of Technical Marketing at RS Components. "…3D design and rapid prototyping is becoming increasingly available to a much wider universe of designers and mechanical and electronics engineers. This can enable significant savings in product development cycles and mean much faster time-to-market."
Like the first Ormerod, the Ormerod 2 uses the FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication) process, which can build 3D objects in a range of plastics and also in a variety of colours. The process enables the creation of almost any shape that can be modelled on a computer, including some that cannot be produced by traditional manufacturing techniques. 3D printing is fast becoming an essential part of the electronic and mechanical design process. Increasing numbers of companies are beginning to see the benefits of using this technology to create quick-turn-around prototypes and save months in the design cycle. Barriers to adoption in the past have been the cost of hardware and a lack of easy-to-use design software for non-CAD specialists. RS says it has overcome this with its free DesignSpark Mechanical 3D modelling software. The kit costs £499 or equivalent.
RS Components; www.rs-components.com
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