Looking for a large volume printer. Bigger than a Prusa MK2 or FlashForge Creator Pro.
The Folger Tech FT-5 has my interest for size and cost.
What do you guys think?
Hmmm, the more I did - maybe this thing isn’t so great but the cost vs. build size? Is this one of those “after a bunch of upgrades” it does ok?
I don’t really recommend the Folgertech, as it’s cheap for a reason. The biggest issues I’ve run into with the larger volumes is buildplate levelness, heating issues, and rigidity of the machine. From what I’ve seen of the Folgertech in person, I would be concerned about all these points as well as the quality of the components used.
With these larger volume printers, heat creep really does a toll to the levelness of the buildplate. You see it with smaller printers like the Prusa too, but the larger build plate magnifies the issue from edge to edge. My Axiom is glass, so this doesn’t happen noticeably, but I’d definitely be skeptical of one of the thinner composite (plastic/metal) beds. Bed heating becomes an even more problematic issue as well, if the heat isn’t well distributed and zoned for the very same reasons. The main frame of the machine is just V-slot, which is plenty sturdy. But the lead screws used to move the bed aren’t all that rigid (at least not on my coworkers) and do move a bit.
By the time you upgrade the extruder, the hotend, the gantry, the carriage and the sensors, I really don’t think the price is all that great. You’re really just paying for a control board, motors, and V-slot at that point, so I’m inclined to say you’re better off just doing it yourself from the get-go via an OpenBuild or similar. At least then you know everything you put into it is 1) high quality, and 2) won’t burn down your house because of corner cutting electronics. Just my 2cents, but you’ve worked with printers and assembling one from scratch isn’t all that hard anymore, especially if you pick up a control board like a Marlin.
Thanks for the input.
I have been looking at the upgrade parts that 713maker.com is making and looks to address some bigger issues. Yes, it adds to the cost but so far they don’t look unreasonable.
My need is mainly for larger size capability. Most likely with a larger .5 on up nozzle sizes so prints won’t generally be high resolution.
Just looking for a reasonable starting point that won’t break the bank but that I can work with and modify as I see fit (or as necessary!!)
Again, appreciate the input.
jfield
5
Have you looked at the d-bot, and variants? If you could build your own, it seems to be a pretty good design, and you could put the quality of components in it that you want. There is a pretty good Facebook community for it.
No problem! Whatever way you choose to go, good luck!
So far I have found some great user forums and groups for this printer so won’t be flying blind!
I am more encouraged by reading and pics people have posted.
It definitely has “known” issues but so far fixes or updates are pretty simple and cheap.
Looking like it could be that half way point between kit (like a Prusa MK2) and completely from scratch build.
I am intrigued and I think understanding the issues and how to fix them is half the battle to getting successful prints.
