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I would like to propose a new topic relating to the use of 3D Printing technology to create parts for building and customizing kites. I have almost a year of experience with this technology, using it every day, and would like to share what I have learned with those of you who are interested in the subject. I am an engineer by profession and finding this new tool has been the realization of a dream of a lifetime... If I can sketch an idea on paper and then create a 3D model of it with software then I can hold a physical example of my idea in my hand after printing it. Many ideas can be used as functional parts rather than just prototypes. Surprisingly, the technology is rather affordable for the consumer these days. But there is a moderate degree of skill that you will need to have to design and print your own parts. Printing parts that others have designed is less complicated but also requires some computer skill and skill in using your particular printer. If it is agreed that this is an interesting topic, then please reply and I will give an introduction to my setup and workflow and some examples of parts that can be made. I’m looking forward to your replies. I am very enthusiastic about the subject and hope that your input will also help me gain knowledge. Regards, Segel

Prototype under way. Varied the strips in strategic places to deter flutter from the angles..

From my standpoint, I'm trying new things constantly that there simply aren't parts for.. Eagerly following this so I can consider making parts for my own designs..

I am curious what parts are you thinking of that would need 3D printing? Angled connectors already exist in bulk at many angles and diameters, assorted end caps, nocks, stoppers, clips, dihedral and APA connections, and flexible fittings (made from rubber tubing or bent metal) are readily available. The connectors are solidly built. The same companies that make and distribute composite spars and rods used to have a color coded system for diameters. The color codes are mostly passed, but the wide variety of parts still exists. Between the hardware stores and kite shops just about any angle or flexible fitting can be found or made by drilling. I could see it for prototypes or if you do not want to pay shipping costs or wait for shipping times. As you described, most parts could be 3D printed if someone really wants to. Do you know how they would compare in strength, stress, and pressure capabilities versus existing molded parts?

Hello Don Fibonacci, The most common material that is the easiest to print is PLA. I use a variant designated as PLA+ and have been using the eSun brand exclusively with excellent results; this brand is what our Public Library uses city-wide and was recommended to me, and I can see why. PLA+ varies by manufacturer. Each have tried to improve the mechanical properties of PLA and eSun has done a very consistent job of it. In following posts I plan to describe my experience with materials. ABS is very difficult to print with an open-frame printer. ABS requires very tight ambient temperature control for the object you are printing due to the high glass-transition temperature of the polymer; warping on medium to large parts is unavoidable without a temperature controlled enclosure. I am guessing that you might be able to resolve your "coarse" print issues by adjusting some settings in your slicing software. I rarely sand my prints unless I am removing printed "supports" which I will also expand on later. I hope this is helpful and I'm glad you are interested in experimenting! -Segel