Questions to consider before buying a 3D printer

[mike@aravind.org]

This is a list of "requirements" I have put together so far.

• Size 150 x 150 x 150 mm capacity (around 6” cube)
• Roughness rating 0.5 micron. (Maybe still need post processing??)
• Preferably capable of using these materials:
  
  • ABS Plastic (PLA)
  • Nylon
  • PP Rubber and Silicon
  • If possible, metal
  
  
• Automatic calibration for base flatness
• Cost limit approximately $15,000
• Should use a wide variety of consumables
• Filament size 1.75 to 1.85
• Capability to make “body parts”
• Time frame approx 6 months
• Need appropriate scanner as well

Also:
1.machine should be capable of printing functional protos.
2.multijet/polyjet machine
3.sla/sls process