Makerbot reveals Replicator 2 3D printer

Posted on Friday, September 21 2012 @ 20:14 CEST by Thomas De Maesschalck
VR Zone delivers word that MakerBot opened its first store in New York with the goal of selling 3D printers as well as printed 3D items. The company also presented Replicator 2, a new 3D printer that achieves a precision of 100 microns, nearly three times better than its predecessor. Another improvement is that the build volume has been increased by 37 percent to a maximum of 410 cubic inches.

Interestingly, MakerBot also adopts a new renewable bioplastic PLA filament that promises to stick to the platform reliably with practically no peeling, curling, sliding or shrinking. On top of that, it also uses 32 percent less energy than building with ABS plastic.
Perhaps the key ingredient of this retail story is the Replicator 2 printer itself. We've been hearing quite a lot about the crudeness of 3D printed objects but with Replicator 2 - those comments should be matter of the past. MakerBot claims that Replicator 2 comes with a precision no less than 100 microns. Previous generation part offered precision of 270 microns, which was still too many imperfections to offer smooth surfaces. According to manufacturer claims, you can now play with a ball and it won't stick to your hands, it will be pretty smooth.

This precision enables not just movable objects such as wrenches but rather highly complex movable objects, such as working mechanisms.
The images below provide a glimpse of what's now possible with 3D printing.

Makerbot 3D printing examples

And the Replicator 2 3D printer is imaged below, it costs $2,199.
There’s a new standard in desktop 3D printing. Our fourth generation machine isn’t just our best, it’s the best desktop 3D printer on the market. With a resolution capability of 100 microns and a massive 410 cubic inch build volume, the MakerBot Replicator™ 2 Desktop 3D Printer is the easiest, fastest, and most affordable tool for making professional quality models. We set a new standard with our work, so that you can set a new standard with yours. Includes a 1 lb spool of Natural PLA filament.
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About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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