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Illustration of the iRapid
Illustration of the iRapid 3D printer
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A Prototype of the iRapid 3D Printer in Action
The iRapid is a German personal 3D printer in the familliar 'FDM' style with PLA and ABS from a spool, etc. What sets this little printer apart is the rack gear system of operation, removing the need for pulleys and belts. If this is done properly (and the fact that it is German engineering suggests that it will be) the iRapid could demonstrate very good reliability and accuracy if backlash can be adequately controlled.
Adding to the sense of solidity is the pre-constructed aluminium frame that houses the heated bed and 'OKKA' gear extruder. Frame rigidity is an important factor in ensuring that the final prints are accrate and faithful to the design.
The vital statistics for the iRapid are:
- Fused deposition modeling (FDM) printing
- Print volume: 140 mm x 140 mm x 140 mm (x, y, z)
- Nozzle: 0.4 mm standard
- Printing rate: up to 80 mm/s
- Accuracy: approx 0.2 mm all axis (x, y, z)
- Minimum layer size: 0.25 mm
- Printer size: approx 350 mm x 370 mm x 525 mm
- Materials: ABS or PLA filament, d= 3 mm
- Bed heated up to 110°C