How do 3D Printers perform?
The Printer builds objects by depositing plastic in thin layers. The layers build on top of one another until the object is finished. Think of it like dispensing frozen yogurt from a machine to make your cone as large or small as you want. 3D printing is like that, only it lets you make way cooler, more detailed shapes.
What can I make?
Anything that fits into the 3D Printer build area; you’re limited only by your imagination! We’ve seen people make earrings, robots, planes, mugs, doorknobs, dog toys, dog tags, real shoes, phone cases, floating bath toys, napkin rings, androids, linked bracelets, chess pieces, cathedrals (very small ones though), gnomes… and much, much more!
What material does 3D Printers use?
Our 3D Printers use two types of materials: a special type of ABS plastic and PLA plastic. We’ve specially engineered our ABS and PLA plastics to be perfect with our printers, so you get great results every time. It’s safe and can be recycled, and if your piece is thick enough, it’s also dishwasher safe.
What is the difference between ABS and PLA Plastic?
ABS and PLA are both plastic materials. Our PLA plastic is specially formulated to be compostable or biodegradable while our ABS is recyclable. When it comes to 3D printing, the key differences between ABS and PLA are:
- PLA is a rigid liquid and ABS is a crystallized liquid, meaning that when heated ABS transits slowly from a gel to liquid and PLA transits direct from solid to liquid
- ABS is more flexible and PLA is more solid, meaning when stressed PLA will snap sooner
- PLA is more glossy looking consumable than ABS
What colors can I use?
We have over twenty colors to choose from so you can express yourself with vibrant designs. Current personal use 3D printers can print in two colors at a time. If you want your design to have more than two colors, you can print it in separate pieces, and then attach them together later. However, you cannot swap the cartridges in the middle of a print. Once the multicolor personal 3D printing technology is available in the market; iMAKE will be the first company to introduce it to the Middle East.
How long does it take to print a design?
It depends on how big and cool it is. A cell phone case may take less than an hour to print. You will get a good idea really quickly based on the kinds of things you design and print.
