- RS is the first to distribute the complete kit of the Omerod 3 low-cost, replicable technology 2D printer.
- The new open source hardware design for easier mounting and better performance.
- Combined with free DesignSpark Mechanical 3D design software, it further drives rapid prototyping.
RS Components and Allied Electronics have announced the availability of a new version of Ormerod's RepRapPro 3D printer, offering extensive versatility and functionality in an easy-to-assemble kit of parts.
3D printing allows electronic and mechanical engineers to generate initial design concepts quickly and easily by creating prototypes that can be easily modified and adjusted, potentially saving months in a product design cycle.
The new Ormerod 3 2D printer is a single-color, low-cost, open-source machine with replicable technology, making it one of the most versatile 3D printers available on the market: it's easy to expand its functionality and assembly is quick . All RepRapPro printers, including older versions like the Ormerod and Mendel, are capable of self-replicating their own plastic components.
Compared to its predecessor, some of the advantages of the Ormerod 2 are a much simpler and more integrated assembly with improved instructions and a cable set that allows an easy connection without the need for soldering.
Other improvements include the build platform, Y-axis design, extruder and power supply, as well as better emission control and support software. For example, its design allows for easier adjustment of build platform level and belt tension, and improved Y-axis belt placement.
The new probe features a four-wire differential device, thus providing much easier access to the extruder for easy cleaning. In addition, the power supply has a universal 100 to 240V input, dedicated 12V power instead of an adapter, and is more compact thanks to its integration into the machine without output cables. EMI emissions have also been reduced by having a fully shielded design that meets the Class A CE mark.
Ormerod 2 printer specifications include: 200 x 200 x 200mm print volume and 1800mm/min speed, 33cm3 per hour deposition rate, 0,1mm accuracy and layer resolution 0,01mm, as well as the ability to print using PLA or ABS thermoplastic materials. The open source software designed to run the machine is fully compatible with the original Ormerod printer and should run on a computer running Windows XP or later, Linux / Ubuntu 12.04 or later or Mac OS X based on Intel processor.
The RepRapPro Ormerod 2 is supplied ready to assemble as a parts kit containing all the necessary components. Complete kit includes: all printed parts; all hardware, including threaded and smooth rods, screws, nuts, washers, straps, and bearings; pre-soldered and programmed electronics; micro SD card and adapter; heated PCB bed; engines; nozzle assembly and extruder drive mechanism; 100 m of white PLA filament with a diameter of 1,75 mm (and a weight of approximately 300 g); a universal 100-240V input power supply (EU, UK, US and Australian plugs available); in addition to open source software for the operation of the machine, including firmware for the electronics.
“The availability of the second generation Ormerod kit, the latest in the RepRapPro range of 3D printers, demonstrates the great success of its open source, self-replicating concept,” commented Mark Cundle, Head of Technical Marketing at RS Components. “Using this new low-cost 3D printing technology, along with our free and intuitive DesignSpark Mechanical 3D design software and our library of 3D CAD models, we will make 3D design and rapid prototyping increasingly accessible. more electronic and mechanical design engineers in the world, enabling shorter and cheaper product development cycles.”
Like the first Ormerod, the Ormerod 2 uses the FFF process of Fused Filament Manufacturing to build 3D objects in a range of different colored plastics. This process allows the creation of almost any shape that can be designed on a computer, even some that cannot be reproduced using traditional manufacturing techniques. 3D printing is quickly becoming an essential part of the electronic and mechanical design process.
An increasing number of companies are beginning to appreciate the benefits of using this technology to create prototypes that can be easily modified and adjusted, saving months of work and resources. Barriers to its adoption in the past were the high cost of hardware and the complexity of the software for non-CAD specialists.
Now, when used in conjunction with DesignSpark Mechanical, the Ormerod 3 2D Printing Kit will enable design engineers around the world to develop sophisticated concepts and products quickly and affordably. The RepRapPro Ormerod 2 is now available as a kit with all the necessary components for installation via RS Online, priced at EUR 633,95.
