New to 3D - need advice

[kevinj605]

I have been reading some online info. For a project I have planned it appears I may need PCTPE filament but I am not sure. Maybe another material is better. I need a slightly flexible material, not soft. I see information about printing speeds, temp, bed temp and nozzle size. I am also looking for a reasonably priced printer under $500. Speed is not critical but if my project works, volume printing may be needed.

[airscapes]

A printer is a machine that need to be accurate to .001mm .. you get what you pay for.. what is the part you are making, what forces must it withstand, what temperature range must it live in, what chemicals must it be impervious to, is a machined metal part really what it should be? Have you already designed it? Did you design it to be fabricated one layer at a time without over hangs requiring supports? it may be more cost effective to have a 3d printing service make your prototype before investing in a printer, unless you are looking for a new hobby and have lots of time to invest in learning. Never have used PCTPE but have used different Nylon and since PCTPE contains Nylon you will need a filament dehydrator to print that material, nylon based products must be dried prior to every used, even new out of the vacuum seal.