1 Topic by raddogmpls

  • raddogmpls
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  • Registered: 2013-10-20
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Topic: I'm looking for a 3D printing expert and to learn what I can here.

Hi, I'm not very technologically inclined but I am really interested in learning about 3D printing because I know it can help me with some products I work with and aslo that I'd like to possibly invent and I think it is a good industry to know about in general.
I am in immediate need of figuring out if I can manufacture a small test batch (maybe 100) of a plastic part that is used in the plumbing industry. I am trying to see if I could get these made for 3 dollars a piece or less either to be sold to me all in one batch or maybe made available in sets of four or six at a time as an on-demand item, in which case I think I could tap into a small but steady online market.

I posted a picture of a similar piece for reference that is not exactly the same.

This is a part that already exists and that I am trying to produce as an after-market replacement part for something that is discontinued. I have actual examples of the part that I want produced, so this involves copying something, not designing it from scratch.
The part I want to make DOESN'T have a red O-ring like the one pictured, but is about the same as far as detail and size (1" diameter) The hardness needs to be between 80-86 I think, I need to measure the ones I have.
If anyone is set up to help or has any ideas, message me. It would be cool to keep it local too. I am in Minneapolis. Thanks.

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2 Reply by elmoret

  • elmoret
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  • Registered: 2012-10-11
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Re: I'm looking for a 3D printing expert and to learn what I can here.

FDM 3D printed parts aren't going to be strong enough, and probably not even water tight. It's a no-go, sorry.

Filastruder - the robust, inexpensive filament extruder
E3Dv6 All Metal Hotend - the premier 3D printing hotend

3 Reply by supraflyer

  • supraflyer
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  • Registered: 2012-09-02
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Re: I'm looking for a 3D printing expert and to learn what I can here.

I can not see the whole part but, If I was making this part in quantity I would 3d print the mold and roto mold it. There a rotomolder in the works somewhere too...

4 Reply by ronsii

  • ronsii
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  • Registered: 2012-10-28
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Re: I'm looking for a 3D printing expert and to learn what I can here.

Hey raddog, I would agree with elmoret that the FDM process is not strong enough for plumbing parts especially supply side parts... with that said it could work for irrigation parts like you want but would still not be as tough as regular injection molded items in similar physical shapes.

There are a lot of people that can do simple injection molding with small parts similar to what you want that would not have too costly of a setup/mold fee, just have a look around on some of the regular manufacturing forums.

There is also the possibility of using centrifugal casting to make this part because it is fairly simple and because of the production numbers you mention are kind of low this would be a better choice as setup/mold fees will be less however the material costs are more....