The progression of technology has made it easier for people to make use of 3D printers in numerous fields, such as engineering, healthcare, and even art. Nowadays, many companies and individuals have expressed interest in printers given their heightened availability and lower costs. A pressing concern still stands though – ‘what is the price for a 3D printer?’. The answer will rarely be straightforward as the features and capabilities of the printer differ with each model. This guide aims to highlight the essential components that affect the pricing of 3D printers and explain the different ranges in which the prices fall. No matter the amount of expertise one has, this article will assist readers in making informed decisions when it comes to purchasing a 3D printer.
What is the 3D Printer Cost for Beginners?
3D printers for novices generally cost between $200 and $500. These basic models are constructed for easy use and usually have minimal features sufficient for basic learning activities. In this category, FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers are very common because of their ability to satisfy the needs of new users and hobbyists. Though these printers lack many features, they are an economical choice for newcomers to 3D printing.
Entry-level 3D Printer Prices
Basic 3D printers are made affordable and user-friendly, and therefore suitable for beginners. Most models in this category utilize FDM technology, which uses heated, extruded material forming into layers to create an object, often using filaments like PLA or ABS. These printers are manufactured with user experience in mind as seen from their friendly software and minimal assembly requirements. They often lack sophisticated features and therefore, functionality remains their focus for use in low-level projects and educational purposes.
Hobbyist 3D Printer Options and Costs
Prices for 3D Printers aimed for use as a hobby can go anywhere between $200 to $800 and they can be tailored to meet particular skill levels or project requirements. For low-end printers, cost-efficient and reliable printers, like the Creality Ender 3 V2, are very common and usually cost around $250. Due to its great build volume, ease of use, and support for popular PLA, ABS, and TPU filaments, this model has become very popular.
Stronger and more advanced mid-range options, such as the Prusa i3 MK3S+ offer more capabilities and features at a higher starting price of $750 and can go up to $1000. In addition to having a higher starting price, these printers also offer greater accuracy, sturdiness, and low-noise functionality all of which are very useful for more advanced projects. Furthermore, these printers also possess features such as self-leveling beds and filament runout sensors which greatly increase usability as well as the chances of successful builds.
Hobbyists looking for flexibility in their designs will greatly appreciate the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 which is a more affordable resin printer in the $300-$500 range. These printers offer incredible surface finish and detail so they can easily print small figurines or decorative parts. Nevertheless, users will need to consider the extra expenses for resin and post-processing tools.
As a summation, the selection of a hobbyist 3D printer relies greatly on personal preferences, financial resources, and knowledge of 3D printing techniques. While casual learners only need entry-level options, dedicated hobbyists looking for fine detail and larger build volumes will be better served by mid-range printers or even resin-based printers.
3D Printing as a Hobby: Is it Affordable?
3D printing can be affordable as a hobby for many, however, it all comes down to the initial investment made, materials and consumables required throughout, and the maintenance or upgrades that may be necessary over time. Beginner-level filament printers or FDM models are available for a few hundred dollars ranging from $200-$500. Mid-level printers that are more accurate and can handle larger build volumes usually sit between $500 and 1500 dollars. SLA and DLP resin printers are available for around $250 but have higher material and post-processing expenses.
The cost of consumables consists mainly of filament (PLA, ABS, PETG, etc.) or resin which sit within the range of $20-$50 per kg for filament and $35-$70 per liter for resin. Brand and quality will heavily influence these expenses. For the more moderate hobbyist, that would translate to $20-$50 a month on materials. In addition, 3D printing requires the purchase of slicing software, which is mostly free with the printer or comes bundled, as well as finishing tools which can include sandpaper and paint, adding $10-$50 per project.
Taking into account the cost of maintenance, energy consumption is another factor to consider. Depending on rates of power consumption and print durations, a standard FDM 3D printer can consume 50 to 150 watts, which could cost $1 to $5 dollars for a medium-scale project. Additionally, maintenance expenses from replacing nozzles, bed adhesives, or building platforms can add $50 to $100 dollars a year on average.
Hobbyists can still find compelling savings as well as long-term value through these expenses. Significant savings can be accrued through 3D printing custom parts, accessories, or replacement components that would otherwise be expensive to purchase. Efficient planning and careful usage can allow hobbyists to limit their expenses while also enjoying the benefits that surround 3D printing. The balance between the long-term benefits and initial investment gives enthusiasts from all over the world the ability to enjoy 3D printing at an affordable price.
How Much Does a 3D Printer Cost for Professionals?
Professional 3D Printer Price Range
Prices for 3D printers are usually determined by the technology, features, and intended application. Entry models priced for small businesses or prototyping typically start between $2500 to $5000. These printers often use either Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) or basic resin technologies which yield good-quality prints for less difficult designs.
Mid-range professional models have greater durability and precision and are therefore priced from $5000 to $20000. These printers are great for industrial engineering, dentistry, and even small-scale manufacturing because they support a wider range of materials such as advanced resins and engineering-grade plastics.
Over $20000 up to $100000 and beyond high-end industrial 3D printers are designed for advanced needs of aerospace, medical implants, and massive scale product manufacturing. Such machines are best for infra-complex designs which require advanced material properties as well as scalability. They utilize Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Stereolithography (SLA), and Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) which automatically give them a cut above the rest.
Also, not forgetting to include the software license fee, materials, and maintenance which may be needed for the printer are additional expenses. Using these printers helps create custom-tailored solutions to cater to countless operational requirements as well as industry needs.
Industrial 3D Printer Costs and Features
Organizations aiming for superior automated manufacturing processes consider investing in industrial 3D printers. The price range in which these printers are sold depends on their specific features, physical and structural quality, and how they are intended to be used. Simple industrial models designed for prototyping and low-scale production are usually sold for $5,000 to $50,000. But for the models that are capable of handling specialized metal alloys, ceramics, and composite materials, the price range increases and is often between $50,000 to $500,000, or even higher.
The primary factors to low or higher prices include the ability to print at high speed and accuracy, the specific material the printer can work with, the resolution, and the build volume of the printer. For instance, there are large format models that have higher price premiums than other models because they are designed to cater to the aerospace and automobile industries that require extensive build areas. In addition, high constructability with multi-materials increases these machines’ desirability for use cases that require composite structures, thus increasing operational flexibility.
Other advanced proprietary features like real-time monitoring and error detection, integrated software that supports automated nesting of parts and optimization of topology, integrated error and monitoring systems, and any compliance like FDA or ISO further increase the price. In addition, these specific industries also have their own models which come at a higher price, but ensure reliability due to more stringent operational standards.
An effective laser wattage for DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering) systems and precise UV lamps on SLA (Stereolithography) printers are examples of important specific features that businesses sometimes need to analyze separately from overall monetary value. A business should analyze if the added expenses are justifiable, as an accurate evaluation needs to be conducted regarding production capabilities. Furthermore, proficient alignment of business outcomes with costs ensures profit margins are achievable.
Professional Desktop 3D Printers: What to Expect
The healthcare, engineering, and product design sectors benefit from the use of professional desktop 3D printers due to their unmatched accuracy, reliability, and features. The advanced desktop printers offer build resolutions of 25 to 100 microns which translates to greater detail and smoothness of printed models’ surfaces. Many of these models possess dual extrusion capabilities that allow for the use of rigid plastics, flexible polymers, and dissolvable support filaments, which expands the range of possibilities for their use.
High-performance desktop 3D printers are now compatible with engineering-grade materials such as PEEK and carbon fiber composites as a result of progress in material compatibility. This change enables the creation of durable and functional prototypes as well as end-use parts designed for demanding environments. Leading manufacturers often include integrated software that contains automation features like build plate leveling, material profile optimization, and error detection, resulting in significant improvements in workflow efficiency.
As per industry insights, the price of a professional desktop 3D printer is between $3000 to $10000 which is quite affordable compared to the industrial systems and also has advanced features. These systems often use heated enclosures with removable nozzles for high-temperature materials, enhancing process consistency. Most of these printers have build volumes from 200 x 200 x 200 mm to over 300 x 300 x 300 mm and are ideal for various production requirements.
Companies that use desktop 3D printers can easily cut costs by designing prototypes and small-batch production runs in-house, as there is no need to outsource them. In addition, cloud-based monitoring and remote management tools ensure seamless operations, which is necessary for distributed teams or multi-shift manufacturing environments. These advancements highlight the increased capabilities of professional desktop 3D printers in addressing changing modern industry demands.
What Are the Factors Influencing 3D Printer Prices?
Type of 3D Printing Technology
The type of 3D printing technology determines the price of a 3D printer, as each technology has its complexity, materials, and quality requirements. Examples of technologies, some of which are more economical than others, include Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS).
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
FDM is the most popular and affordable 3D printing technology. FDM works by unleashing heated thermoplastic filaments which construct an object layer by layer. Consumer and entry-level FDM printers are abundant and sell between $200 and $5,000. For this reason, it is the primary choice among hobbyists, educators, and prototyping in non-critical applications.
Stereolithography (SLA)
Ultraviolet (UV) light is used to cure liquid resin into solid objects for SLA printers, making them the most flexible machines of 3D printing. This method is more precise and smooth than FDM. Starting prices for SLA printers run around $1500 but can surpass $10,000. These devices are more useful for dentists, jewelry designers, and other specialists.
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS):
SLS technology employs lasers to melt powdered materials, such as nylon or polyamide, where durable functional parts are produced. This is often found in professional 3D printers, the cheapest of which start around $20,000 and can exceed $100,000. The process of SLS is favorable because it can produce complex geometries without the use of scaffold structures. This is why SLS is used in medical, aerospace, automotive, and other sophisticated industries.
Other Emerging Technologies:
DLS, MJF, and DMLS are some of the other emerging technologies that are also gaining popularity. Like many other emerging innovations, these are also more expensive because of their advanced capabilities and materials options. These technologies specialize in particular industrial functions, which is why it is common for them to get more expensive.
Choosing an appropriate technology typically relies on the specific use case, budget, and quality requirements. For example, some small companies and hobbyists can take advantage of entry-level SLA printers or FDM printers to save cost, however, big enterprises engaged in high-end manufacturing tend to spend a lot on SLS and DMLS machines due to their incredible precision and mechanical features. A very thorough study of required features, effective materials, and operational efficiency makes it easier to choose the right printer.
3D Printing Material Costs
The price of 3D printing materials is affected by the type used, supplier, and quality of the material itself, significantly changing the price of 3D printers. The most common filament materials used in FDM printers, PLA and ABS, are available in the market at the most competitive prices ranging from $20 to $50 per kilogram. Somewhat more advanced materials such as PETG and those containing fibrous fillers like carbon fiber or wood, can be sold from $50 to $100 per kilogram.
SLA printer resin materials are usually slightly more expensive than filamented materials and are sold for $50-$200 per liter depending on type and application. Specialized biocompatible and dental implant resins can be even more expensive because of their unique chemical structures and stringent manufacturing standards.
The expense of various types of nylon for SLS printing and DMLS systems using metal powders greatly increases the cost of 3D printers intended for industrial-grade applications. Nylon powders are frequently priced in the range of $80-$150 per kilogram while metal powders such as titanium and stainless steel sell at $300-$600 per kilogram. The grade and supplier usually determine the price which in turn greatly affects the overall cost of the 3D printer.
Auxiliary expenses, including the cost of support materials, adhesives, or post-processing supplies, also should be considered. These costs can fluctuate, but they are important for reaching the targeted functionality and quality of the print. It is recommended that corporations as well as individuals conduct a thorough evaluation of their material needs versus project expenses for optimal outcomes.
Build Volume and Area Considerations
I pay attention to the measurements and limitations of the 3D printing system about the project scope, particularly among 3D printers within this budget bracket. Although the larger build volumes facilitate the larger part production or the production of multiple smaller components simultaneously, they can also result in longer print times and higher costs of the material along with the cost of the 3D printer. I ensure that the printer’s capability meets the desired object size and complexity while completing the projected timelines and costs, taking how much a 3D printer costs in total into consideration.
Are 3D Printers Worth the Investment?
Benefits of 3D Printing
Every sector can benefit from the increased innovation, personalization, and cost-saving 3D printing brings. 3D printing allows for rapid prototyping which increases development speed by reducing costs and time needed in traditional manufacturing. It also allows for capex-limited on-axis production which further reduces waste and eliminates the need to carry excess inventory. The technology works exceptionally well in the production of unique designs by customizing them to exact requirements. All in all, 3D printing solves the sophisticated problems of modern manufacturing with its flexibility and scalability.
Cost Per Part: Evaluating Value
Your order of three-dimensional parts comes with certain conditions to be fulfilled regarding material selection, construction printer class, and the quantity to deal with so that the price for each one within the batch is set. For economically efficient small and medium batch productions, 3D printing is normally cheaper compared with other options because machinery setup is expensive and wastage is very low. Popular materials like PLA and ABS will lower the costs for you, but advanced options like metal and high-performance polymers will increase them. Furthermore, on-demand 3D printing is very economical for parts with complex shapes or those that have some specific features, unlike traditional ways when a mold or tooling has to be paid for, which would make it very hard for such inexpensive orders to be accepted. If applied judiciously, 3D printing becomes exquisitely cheap in per-printing cost for several applications.
In-House 3D Printing Versus Outsourcing
When weighing the advantages and disadvantages of in-house 3D printing vs using a 3rd party service, some factors like the cost, level of control, and duration of production along with required expertise need to be evaluated. Having a printer in-house offers maximum control over the production processes and rapid iteration cycles making it ideal for prototyping or small-batch production runs. A company that makes regular use of 3D printers eventually concludes that owning the equipment is cheaper over time. Industry standards suggest that investing in a professional-grade 3D printer usually has an upfront price range of $5,000 to $100,000. This is without including costs for maintenance, materials, and manpower.
In contrast, engaging 3D printing service providers means no capital investment at all and no continuous operational expenditures. That makes it a more attractive alternative for businesses that do not require frequent or any volume of 3D printing. Another prominent advantage of outsourcing is access to advanced technologies and specialized materials not available in-house. For instance, industrial 3D printing service providers usually have available selective laser sintering (SLS) or electron beam melting (EBM) which allow for the intricate precision metal part production that can be difficult for in-house setups to achieve.
Scalability is another consideration for any business. When it comes to larger production runs, outsourcing is beneficial because many service providers have the necessary infrastructure to support mass production without lead times and are thus more cost-effective than purchasing 3D printers. On the other hand, in-house production can be limited by the available printer capacity and the number of workers. Ultimately, it all comes down to the application, estimated production volume, and if having ownership long-term is more valuable than the ease and benefits of outsourcing. A business’s specific requirements can be met most efficiently through an analysis of the fees for outsourcing vs. the total cost of ownership (TCO).
How Do 3D Printers Vary by Type?
FDM 3D Printers: Cost and Usage
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers are relatively inexpensive and user-friendly devices when it comes to 3D printing and are consequently very popular. Depending on features such as build volume, resolution, and material compatibility, the cost of FDM printers can range from less than $200 for entry-level models to more than $10,000 for professional models. FDM printers create objects by extruding thermoplastic filaments, including PLA, ABS, and PETG, and placing them layer by layer on top of each other.
Due to their ability to produce realistic models and sturdy parts, FDM printers are versatile and commonly used across various industries such as education, small-scale prototyping, and manufacturing. On the other hand, FDM printers are much more effective with designs that have an uncomplicated geometry. FDM printers also tend to lack the precision or surface finish that is possible with SLA or SLS.
Operational costs also play a role in usage assessment. On average, thermoplastics filament prices typically range from $20-$50 per kilogram, although the prices differ by material type. In addition, overall costs may be affected by maintenance costs, energy use, and periodic replacement of parts like nozzles. Though FDM technology remains one of the most accessible and economically efficient forms of 3D printing for personal and professional use, due diligence in choosing printer models, materials, and usage configurations is critical to enhancing the capabilities of the technology.
SLA 3D Printers: Price and Applications
SLA (Stereolithography) 3D printers are some of the most popular printers on the market because of the surface details they offer. They are widely used in demanding applications because of the detail and precision they can achieve, which is made possible by the optical components of the printers. The printer uses a UV laser that works by curing liquid resin a layer at a time. From this, it is easy to see how a 3D printer works and be amazed at the accuracy of the output.
Price Range of SLA 3D Printers
Specs, functional possibilities, and functionalities for specific customers have a great influence on the cost of SLA 3D printers. These issues considerably differ for various categories of consumers. Presented below is an overview of the typical cost ranges:
Entry-Level SLA Printers: $200–$1,000
SLA printers in this category are designed for beginners and hobbyists. Units in this range tend to have smaller build volumes and lower print speeds such as Elegoo Mars and Anycubic Photon printers.
Mid-Range SLA Printers: $1,000–$5,000
Higher mid-range printers have greater accuracy, wider build volumes, and more advanced features such as automated resin feeding. Formlabs Form 3 is an example of a professional-grade machine that is made in this category.
Industrial SLA Printers: $5,000–$50,000+
This range includes printers built for commercial and industrial applications. These units have the capabilities for advanced material handling and large-scale production. The 3D Systems ProJet series and Formlabs Form 3L are known for these features.
Applications of SLA 3D Printers
SLA technology has a wide range of applications in different industries where high accuracy and detail are required. Examples include:
- Prototyping: Used for creating prototypes that accurately mirror the tested designs and functionality.
- Dental and Medical Models: Best for custom dental molds, surgical guides, and prosthetic devices.
- Jewelry Design: This makes it possible to design complex wax molds used in casting.
- Engineering: Most suitable for miniaturized features with high geometric accuracy.
- Entertainment and Miniatures: Commonly used for detailed figurines, models, props, and other collectibles.
- Manufacturing Tools: Useful in the production of jigs, molds, and tooling parts.
SLA 3D printers remain the go-to option for professionals in challenging industries due to the unmatched features of detail and range of materials capable of being used. The higher upfront cost is compensated by the level of precision and adaptability given when put side by side with other 3D printing technologies.
Resin 3D Printers: Benefits and Costs
When juxtaposed against different 3D printing technologies, resin 3D printers have several particular advantages of their own. Surely, one of the most noteworthy benefits is accuracy. These printers achieve an impressive height as small as 25 microns in layers, and as such, they tend to produce incredibly detailed features and smooth surfaces. Which is great for challenging tasks like dental model fabrication, complex jewelry design, and prototyping. In addition, the offered properties of materials used in resin 3D printing range from rigid and tough, to flexible and temperature durable, which can fulfill several professional requirements.
Even with these advantages, there are significant drawbacks to using a resin 3D printer. A resin printer will sit somewhere between $200 to $400 for a low-end model hobbyist and can go beyond $3000 for a professional-grade printer. The cost of consumables also adds up over time and totals a significant sum for this type of printer. Standard photopolymer resin tenders are between $30 and $70 per liter, with specialized dental and engineering resins going beyond $150 per liter. Each print also requires post-processing which tends to add costs of its own, with cleaning and curing Printers ranging from $50 to USD 300, depending on how complex the setup is.
In calculating operational costs, one must also address safety and waste disposal issues about resin printing. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted from resin and require stringent measures to avoid dermal or inhalation exposure. Furthermore, users are obligated to eliminate byproducts responsibly, since uncured resin becomes a waste product of hazardous nature under numerous regulations.
Although resin 3D printers have higher investment and operational costs relative to filament 3D printers FDM, the pinpoint accuracy and material functionality render these printers a worthy expenditure for operators who work with accuracy and efficiency within their processes. Thoughtful planning and projected expenditures and revenues are crucial to utilizing these resources for maximum gain while limiting spending.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How much is a 3D printer on average?
A: The average printer cost within a household is approximately $300 to $1,000. However, if you are seeking high-end printers, industrial 3D printers can cost you anywhere from $2,000 to $100,000 depending on the model’s make and quality. Entry-level and mid-range models start from $200 to $2,000. The cost of 3D printers varies widely depending on the type and quality available within the market. High-end models are relatively more expensive, however, are of better quality compared to entry and mid-range models.
Q: What are the different types of 3D printers available and how do their prices compare?
A: DLP (Digital Light Processing) printers cost between $500 to $7000, while SLA (Stereolithography) printers have a wider price range starting from $300 – $10,000, depending on the 3D printer’s capabilities. FDM models fall on a lower spectrum and start from $200 to $5000. However, SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) printers and Metal 3D Printers are the most expensive printing models, costing you around $10,000 to $500,000 and $100,000 to $1,000,000 respectively. The price of a 3D printer is determined by the technological price, build area, and the additional features included within the printer’s components.
Q: I’m new to 3D printing. What factors should I take into account when I look to purchase a 3D printer?
A: When you’re new to 3D printing and interested in *buying a 3D printer*, remember to consider the following: 1. Your budget. 2. Purpose (hobby, professional, or industrial). 3. Build volume. 4. Print quality and resolution. 5. Printing speed. 6. Supported materials (filament types). 7. User-friendliness and software integration 8. Brand reliability and support These factors will help you choose the right 3D printer for your needs and skill level.
Q: How much does 3D printing using a printer cost in terms of materials and maintenance?
A: The cost of the 3D printer itself is only a small piece of the puzzle when it comes to 3D printing. Here are some additional costs: 1. Filament: $20 – $50 per kg 2. Resin (for SLA printers): $50 – $200 per liter 3. Replacement parts: $20 – $200 per year 4. Electricity: Varies but usually quite low 5. Software: Free to $500+ a year for professional software The overall cost of 3D printing will generally come down to how often you use the printer and the complexity of the projects you choose to embark on.
Q: What are some examples of enthusiast 3D printers and their price bracket?
A: One of the Midrange printers includes the Prusa i3 MK3S+ which retails between $750 to $1,000. Another one is the Creality Ender 3 V2 which ranges from $250 to $300 and further has the Anycubic Vyper which lies between $350 and $450. One of the resin 3D printers available is the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro which prices between $250 and $300 along with Flashforge Adventurer 3 which is on the pricier side of $350-$450. These printers provide reasonable print quality and are reliable for enthusiasts since there are many features in these printers.
Q: What are the costs of industrial 3D printers, and what are their purposes?
A: The prices of industrial 3D printers range between $20,000 to over $100,000, with some of the most advanced devices priced over $1 million. Their usage includes: 1. Rapid Prototyping 2. Manufacturing of parts for direct consumption 3. Aerospace and Automotive industry 4. Medical and Dental industry 5. Servicing a large number of customers These types of printers have bigger build volumes, greater levels of accuracy, and the capability to work with sophisticated materials like metals and high-performance polymers.
Q: Are there any undisclosed expenses related to the purchase of 3D printers?
A: There are indeed extra expenses associated with the purchase of a 3D printer. Some of these might be: expenses of the consumable parts and maintenance for 3D printers operating certain models. 1. Replacement nozzles or extruders 2. Enhanced Build plates 3. Temperature control cabinets 4. Post-processors (sanders, UV curing stations) 5. Certain licenses for constituent software 6. Training or lectures associated with 3D modeling and printing practices While budgeting the expenses for the 3D printing setup, these costs must be factored in.
Q: How does the cost of using a 3D printing service differ from the cost of owning a 3D printer?
A: The differences in cost between using a 3D printing service and owning a 3D printer are directly linked to your consumption: 1. If used rarely: 3D printing services seem to be more economical 2. If used frequently: A printer will pay off in the long run 3. Specialists in this field could benefit certain customers with complex or large projects that fall under prints from a 3D printer. Prototyping: With a printer, there is more flexibility with faster iterations Take into account the frequency of your prints, materials, and the level of complexity of the project when choosing between a service or purchasing a 3D printer.
Reference Sources
1. EnderScope: An Inexpensive Scanning 3D Printing Microscope for Microplastic Detection
- Authors: Niamh Burke et al.
- Published in: Philosophical Transactions, Volume 382, June 2024 Issue
- Summary: This paper studies the EnderScope, a low-cost microscope that is designed for automated scanning and microplastic identification in seawater samples. The system integrates a non-expensive 3D printer Creality Ender 3 with an optics module replacing the printer’s hotend. The design objective is simple and inexpensive, relying on low-quality LEDs for illumination. The study stresses the need for low-cost, easily available, technology for monitoring design and its adaptability in solving major environmental problems like sea microplastic contamination (Burke et al., 2024).
2. A novel multi-material and high-throughput direct ink writing printer for soft and living materials
- Jonathan D. Weiss and colleagues
- bioRxiv, published 10/2024
- Overview: This paper describes a new approach for the construction of a low-cost, open-source 3D printer that features multi-material and high-throughput direct ink writing capabilities. The printer can be built freely from parts or CAD models, which greatly reduces costs compared to existing printers. The document elaborates on sophisticated ways of printing and suggests their work can catalyze a biomarker community by providing the tool to engineers, biologists, and teachers (Weiss et al., 2024).
3. Design of a low-cost hydrogel microextrusion bioprinter based on Kossel delta 3D printer
- By: S. Fanucci, E. Prinsloo
- It appeared in: Engineering Reports, December 2022
- Overview: The authors elaborate on the design and construction of a low-cost bioprinter based on the Kossel delta 3D files. The main goal is to enable low-cost cell-free hydrogel printing to make bioprinting technologies available to most biologists, especially those in poorly funded research groups. The authors analyze printing accuracies and describe some features that need to be changed or added to increase the performance of the system (Fanucci & Prinsloo, 2022).
