Build a reprap
Contents
This page has not been checked and may well not be accurate
Build a RepRap
This page presents a simple path to having a working repstrap, it is not the only possible route. The parts have been selected to minimise effort and skills required. Other options can be found here: XXX
Overview
A RepRap or RepStrap (A RepRap can build itself, a RepStrap can build something that can build itself) can be divided into several key areas:
- Object creation Software
- System control Software
- Thermoplastic extruder
- Positioning system
- The electronics to control the positioning system
Object Creation Software
Art of Illusion is currently the software bundled in the Linux distribution liveCD for the RepRap project. This program allows you, the user, to view, manipulate, edit, and save STL files.
STL files are object files that are used in Rapid Prototyping. RepRap uses these files and any object you want to print must first be saved in an STL file format.
System control Software
Where to get and how to run the Java client program
Thermoplastic extruder
A kit form extruder is currently available from Bits from Bytes who are based in the UK. The kit is part of the silver or gold kits and so doesn't need ordering separately unless you want a spare. Assembly instructions are available on the bits from bytes website in the 'Assembly Instructions' area:
Bits from Bytes Extruder Assembly instructions
Bits from Bytes Extruder 3d Model - the model requires a recent copy of Adobe Acrobat.
There are also videos of the construction process, in the 'Tutorials' section of the website.
Bits from Bytes Heater Barrel Assembly
Bits from Bytes Extruder Drive Assembly
A kit will also shortly be available via Ponoko who have offices in the US.
Positioning system
Kits are available from Bits from Bytes, either the FULL Mechanical Kit - Silver or Gold contain all the components necessary to build a positioning system and extruder. Assembly instructions are available on the bits from bytes website in the 'Assembly Instructions' area:
Bits from Bytes Assembly Instructions
The electronics to control the positioning system
No pre-assembled option is currently available for the electronics and so you, or someone you know, will need to solder the components to the board.
The RepRap Research Foundation produces kits for the electronic components. The Complete Arduino Electronics Kit when ordered with the optional Aurduino and usb cable contains all the electronics, in component form, provides everything required to control the positioning system. The main RepRap site contains guides to constructing each of the boards the kit contains:
shopping list
The following list contains all the components necessary to build a RepStrap and enough plastic to print a RepRap. Some handtools are required for assembly, but the only power tool used is a soldering iron.
Extruder and Positioning System
Bits from Bytes - FULL Mechanical Kit - Silver or Gold
Ponoko - coming soon
(only one required)
Electronics
RRRF Complete Arduino Electronics Kit, Arduino Diecimilia, USB cable
Plastic
The extruders all use 3mm diameter plastic filament/wire. ABS is the recommended plastic for its combination of strength, availability and dimensional stability. Suitable plastic is available from RRRF in 5lb reels. It is also available by request from plasticweldingrod.com.
Total
Shipping and tax vary by country of order but $1000 total is a reasonable approximation.
There are multiple ways to build a RepRap or RepStrap; the method selected for these instructions has been chosen to minimize skills and tools needed. If you wish to explore other options click Build a RepRap-Advanced
