3D printer and CNC routers

[thinfourth]

As a sad git i have a vague ambition to get/build myself a 3D router/plasma table.

Being a person with scale issues i normally go big as such there is not one single chance of one fitting in my current workshop.

The foundations for the new workshop (the wife thinks its garage) have been laid

So at some point in the next few years i should be starting out

NOW

Is it a good idea to get a 3D printer to help learn the principles of moving a tool around a 3D space and using CAD?

 

[julianf]

If you want a 3d printer, buy one.

...but don't consider it a requirement at all.

I built my CNC machine about a decade ago. Ie before the 3d printer "craze" - I've never used a 3d printer, and think it would be just as hard me to build one as the next man (outside of being able to make some parts, I guess!)

 

[henry Kadzielski]

Good morning.
My two cents worth. The software is the hardest to get your head around so getting a 3D printer with different software than the router/ plasma is a complete relearning process, fine if you got plenty of time and enjoy frustration. Otherwise get the software you are going to use and start learning that. Unfortunately the best learning process is when all is operating and you can see what is happening

 

[thinfourth]

I am thinking that the common ground between a printer and a router is the CAD bit

It is the CAD bit where i am severely lacking

So would a 3D printer help as currently i have no need to use CAD as i use back of a fag packet designs

 

[julianf]

In that case, the answer is a simple "no"

For 3d printing, you will need 3d cad.

For plasma cutting / routing etc. you will need 2d.

No point in learning a load of 3d stuff for 2d work.

 

[henry Kadzielski]

Again sorry, but there is CAM (computer aided manufacture) this is the post processor and the software to drive the router / plasma

 

[henry Kadzielski]

In that case, the answer is a simple "no"

For 3d printing, you will need 3d cad.

For plasma cutting / routing etc. you will need 2d.

No point in learning a load of 3d stuff for 2d work.

There is 2.5d which a router can do

 

[daedalusminos]

You can start learning CAD tonight, free of charge! There's quite a few free CAD programs, but a good starting point is 'Fusion 360' (free for home use) but it's also used by professionals and it leans towards CNC. Admittedly quite a steep learning curve but some very good tutorials available online

 

[thinfourth]

I am already trying to learn CAD but a lack of anything in my hand at the end of it is now starting to limit me

 

[Henrik]

I'd say a 3d printer is worth it as a toy.

I have one at work, and it's the only reason I could bear to learn any cad software. Without anything at the end, drawing random parts becomes old quick.

The software I'm using is called Onshape. It's browser based, free, and surprisingly good IMO.