I am intending to build a spares kit for my Ormarod so as to limit downtime in the event of a failure. What parts are particularly prone to wear/fail and so should be included? I guess printing a set of all plastic parts, especially the gears would be prudent, but what do the old hands find need replacing from time to time?

Nozzle - does it sometimes get blocked & need replacing?
Extruder heater?
Thermistors?
Bed heater?
Belts?
Hobbed bolt?
Stepper motors?
Z-leadscrew & nut?
Electronics parts?

Dave
(#106)

You might want to include a fan.

Why don't you start building a backup printer?
It is a waste to not use expensive components!

The best replacement is an identical machine:

• You know for sure that the parts actually work.
• You know for sure you have all the spare parts.
• You do not need storage space for spare parts.
• You can print twice as much / as fast as before.
• You can print a new part to replace a broken one.
• You can exchange a part to test if this fixes things.
• You can compare behaviour between both printers.

I think this should keep you printing 24/7/365.
I am currently waiting for the RRP hardware kit...

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RS-Online Ormerod #263, Kossel mini with Minitronics, Prusa i3 MK2

And for safety, probably best to keep the company's backup machine off-site - such as at my home!

And even better... If they have a second machine... I have room in my shed.....