We managed to examine 3D Systems’ latest personal 3D printer, the Cube, in person at Rapid 2012. The colorful unit was much as we expected, but there was a surprise. The print bed appeared glossy for some unknown reason. We wondered if the surface was made that way and investigated with a finger. We discovered immediately that the print bed is in fact heated. Heated A Lot!
After recovering our damaged fingers, we learned that Cube users must apply a coating of glue before each print operation to the print bed to ensure prints stick. Here is the magic glue. Yes, it is literally magic, because the label says so. This is an interesting approach to a common problem among personal 3D printers: how to you ensure the prints stick. Various approaches have been attempted, including unusual print bed chemistry, blue painter’s tape, etc., but glue now seems like a very simple and obvious solution.
One approach people use to getting prints to stick is painting a thin coat of acetone mixed with ABS on the bed before printing ABS. I wonder if that is what the Magic Glue is.
My first impression seeing the Cube was that it seemed like a well-dressed UP printer. Now Up has outdone the Cube with the Mini. While it doesn't look as much like a toy for kids, the Mini does look very polished and professional. It has the added advantage of an enclosed chamber to keep the heat in, and curious fingers off of the heated bed.
I wonder if at the next CES we will see 3D System's interpretation of the Mini.
One approach people use to getting prints to stick is painting a thin coat of acetone mixed with ABS on the bed before printing ABS. I wonder if that is what the Magic Glue is.
My first impression seeing the Cube was that it seemed like a well-dressed UP printer. Now Up has outdone the Cube with the Mini. While it doesn't look as much like a toy for kids, the Mini does look very polished and professional. It has the added advantage of an enclosed chamber to keep the heat in, and curious fingers off of the heated bed.
I wonder if at the next CES we will see 3D System's interpretation of the Mini.
That's interesting – it is probably a pretty reliable method for ensuring prints stick.
I'm wondering if it is a little bit more of a hassle than applying kapton tape (or painter's tape depending on material, etc.) every once in a while.
Does the glue need to be applied every time? And is it expensive?
That's interesting – it is probably a pretty reliable method for ensuring prints stick.
I'm wondering if it is a little bit more of a hassle than applying kapton tape (or painter's tape depending on material, etc.) every once in a while.
Does the glue need to be applied every time? And is it expensive?