Discussion about Formlabs formlabs 2
This is the general thread for discussing the machine; the thread is also visible on its page at https://www.fablabs.io/machines/formlabs-2
It seems like Formalabs does not sell all the individual parts to self maintain this machine. I have been asked to assist a lab that is trying to fix a machine that was dammaged and that is no longer under warranty. This is a relatively new model and units are not starting to be out of the warranty period. The latest info I got from the support department is after being told that the part was not available to fix the problem, it must be done at the factory. I hoping that by bringing this issue to the attention of the community it becomes possible to convince Formlabs to adapt their policies to best serve this segment of their customers made up of FabLabs, Makers and tinkerers:
"I can understand the desire to want to fix the machine yourself. I’m also an avid tinkerer of things and would try to do the same thing!
Here at Formlabs, we do not particularly subscribe to a traditional managerial structure. I am happy to put you in touch with my team lead, but nobody on my team is able to send parts that our manufacturing team deems as unfit to send to customers. That being said, I would be more than happy to put them in touch with you, just let me know! "
At the heart of this is the idea that the machine must be recalibrated and that this can only be done at the factory. For the non-profit, limited budget Fablab end-user, I see this as being problematic. I question if this printer is a good fit to be on the list of basic lab equipment. What I have observed is that it may not be used as much as it should considering the acquisition cost. Also, I think the total cost of ownership, including consumables and post-warranty support may be too high for many budgets. This may indicate that we should look into new players in the SLA market who offer less expensive alternatives. Yes solutions that are not LASER-based will be less precise but not all of us, in fablabs, are making dentures and diamond ring mounts.
I’m quite disappointed reading that.
I don’t have first hand long term experience with that specific machine but I’ll keep that in mind next time I go on a shopping spree.
As for similar product. We have here a Kudo DLP printer. And I would never recommend buying that machine. It’s by far the most excruciating machine to calibrate and use. Parts often fall from the platform into the vat. Precision is rarely kept between prints. Software is sketchy, slicer is pityful, etc. So if you happen to look for a resin printer, don’t get that one!