Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Let it be noted that the insides of a 3D
printer are not a finger-friendly zone
(and I have the blisters to prove it)!
Extruder
The extruder is not actually the part that
squirts out plastic. The extruder is the
part that feeds the plastic filament into
the hot-end. Extruders may be integra-
ted into the hot-end or they may be re-
mote, typically pushing the filament
through a stiff PTFE (Teflon) tube (this is
the Bowden cable) into the hot-end
( Figure 1-5 ).
With a dual extruder ( Figure 1-6 ), you
can print two different materials or col-
ors simultaneously. This versatility
comes at a cost of complexity (and
price), as it requires an extra extruder,
hot-end, and all the bits in between.
Some printers, like the Ultimaker, can be
upgraded from single to multiple ex-
truders. Others cannot.
Figure 1-6. A Replicator sporting a dual extruder
Hot-end
The hot-end is comprised of a heater, a
temperature sensor, and an extrusion
end through which the plastic filament
is pushed to deposit molten material
( Figure 1-7 ). Hot-ends are often assem-
bled within an aluminum block or are
configured in a barrel-type shape.
Note that the interface between the hot-
end and the extruder—be it directly
integrated or with a Bowden cable be-
tween the two—can be exceptionally
problematic on some printers or on a
printer that is not adjusted properly.
Figure 1-5. A Bowden extruder
Figure 1-7. The Printrbot hot-end / extruder
The hole in the nozzle may range in size,
typically between 0.2 mm and 0.8 mm.
 
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