05-13-2024, 09:24 PM
(05-13-2024, 05:27 PM)EdK Wrote:(05-13-2024, 05:07 PM)arvidj Wrote: I have a pre-order for a RAT RIG V-CORE 4
... What about those made you decide on that printer?
Ed
My rough criteria for a new printer, in no particular order, was: coreXY, 300 x 300 x 300 minimum, at least 2 materials without massive purge piles, Klipper, large user community, as much open source as possible, reasonable cost given the criteria.
I was really set on the Voron 2.4 R2, but had never seen one in person. I thought it, with a tool changer, or, worst case condition, a 3d Chameleon and live with the purge piles, would meet my criteria.
My nephew and family live in a Denver suburb, so I took advantage of their hospitality and he and I attended RMRRF 2024 in Loveland Colorado a few weeks ago. I knew the Voron was based on 20x20 extrusions, but it did not dawn on me how small 20x20 actually was. Which led to "how flimsy" the printers actually looked. Obviously it must no be a real issue as there were so many Voron and\or Voron Like printers at the show based on 20x20 extrusions, plus there are tons of them out in the real world, but I just did not like the fragile look of the printers.
My flight instructor is into 3d printing and had built a RailCore machine several years ago. I asked him about the "flexible" nature for the Voron and why they did not use side panels\enclosures similar to the Railcore's monocoque style to emhance the rigidity of the machine. "They just don't seem to think it is important." was the response. He then mentioned the RatRig, so I investigated.
The Rat RIg V-VORE-4 was introduced at the show. I really liked the 30x30 extrusions, the three different size options ... 300 or 400 or 500 (though the 500 will not fit thru a normal 32 inch door so that is a non-starter) ..., it can easily be upgraded to IDEX that addresses '2 materials minimum without purge piles', the enclosure, Orbiter 2 extruder, etc. The down side is that it does not have an option for E3D Revo hot ends (which I really do like on my MK3S+, even though I do not change nozzle's all that often), but may someone will create a MOD for it.
Yes, not cheap, but I thought it was a rational price for what is delivered.
Arvid