PLA to do the prototype. Then most likely TPU. But suggest to practice on smaller models first as 3d printing is art on its own that needs mastering before printing critical elements.
Well you probably have an overwhelming number of options on craftcloud.
I’ve printed mine in PETG+, that’s a rather basic material but it’s held up fine. It’s not as susceptible to UV damage as PLA (which you should avoid). It’s probably one of the cheaper alternatives.
I would also consider nylon or one of the carbon fiber reinforced plastics.
You could also look for SLS or MJF options. This is a different type of power/laser based printing that home machines don’t use. It makes very strong and robust parts, usually with nylon. Probably a bit pricier than “normal” filament based prints.
@Foilkook If you want cost effectiveness, it would be much better to have someone here print your parts–the online prices are insane. I could probably print you a carbon fiber nylon part for the same price that Craftcloud is charging for a plain PLA part. (If you’re interested I have PLA+, PETG, TPU, and PA6-CF at the moment.)
Of course if you want things like SLS or you don’t live in a country near anybody here then a service would be better!
Edit: @Foilguy also has a very good point, I know there is a library near me that has one, so good chance there is elsewhere.
Nothing wrong with outsourcing but many library’s and schools have printers that can be accessed inexpensively or even free if you want to learn how to DIY😀
I use either PCBWay or Zelta 3d and probably easiest and most effective is sls nylon pa12. It’s super strong and not so stiff that it’s brittle. Looks pro and is pro! They are in China and Singapore respectively and ship with international couriers very reasonably. IMO Zelta is best quality but more expensive. Pcbway still very good.
Only comment on the nylon is that heat insert threads are tricky, the nylon doesn’t yield the same way petg or pctg does. It’s doable but better to use nuts if you can.
You can upload your file and get an instant quote, choose a colour and in a week or two it will be on your doorstep.
If printing myself I use either petg or PCTG filament. Print 6 layers all over with 15% gyroid infill pattern. Then drill a couple of 5mm holes and fill with epoxy resin with a basic syringe. Bulletproof!
If you are going to be doing a bit of printing a Bambu Lab A1, cheapest model is incredible value and good quality, it would only take a couple of outsourced prints to justify.
I’m in the US (Florida). I just found in one of your other posts that you’re in Australia so maybe somebody there can do it. (Shipping would be pricey for me, same as it is for Craftcloud.)
This one looks sharp. Pretty awesome. What provider did you use? I have zero cad skills and only learned what a .STL File is a few days ago lol. What do I need to learn? Can you share the files? Cheers