So I am researching as much as I can because I would like to build a 3D printer and the Mendel90 had my eye right now. A number of people have told me to start with a popular design and go from there. I agree that would be the easiest but I would like to spend money once on what I would like instead of being less satisfied. With that in mind, I would like to scale the printer to a 12x - 12y - ?z. I plan on using larger rods and linear bearings, either 10mm or 12mm depending on the material used. I know that MDF is sturdy and strong but also very heavy. I know DiBond is lighter but I don't know how strong it is in comparison.
Would it be worth possible double-stacking the Dibond to gain strength where needed and then use single stacks for the print bed and carriages? Or is that just cost prohibitive?
I though of solid aluminum plates but I believe that would be more expensive and not worth the expense. What do you think?
Steel would be very sturdy, very heavy and very expensive. Has anyone tried this yet?
What is the MDF was lightened by means of creating lattice-type cut-outs?
Another desire is to increase the print speeds and rapids of the printer. Yes, the faster you go, the more resolution you tend to lose but is .1 mm layers are desired, thar resolution is easily obtainable with a 200 step / revolution motor.
