Is support handled by a human being?
Every support request, either through e-mail or phone call, is handled by a Fablicator staff member. We do not outsource our support overseas.
Does using a Fablicator require a lot of technical expertise?
Our fully integrated 3D printing workstation is a relatively easy machine to learn. As with any new technology, there is a learning curve, and using the manual to get started will help immensely. 3D printing is not magic, and requires a willingness to learn the capabilities and limitations of the process.
Why buy a Fablicator vs an inexpensive Chinese printer?
• We design our machines to be robust and reliable. Our very first printers are still producing parts after thousands of hours of print time.
• Unlike the vast majority of Chinese printers, we provide excellent, personal technical support when you have a problem.
• Our machines are made in the USA, and many components are sourced from local businesses.
• The part quality and strength produced by our printers is exceptional. Just compare our sample parts to those produced on other machines. It’s easy to skew ‘quality’ numbers on the internet, the proof is in the parts.
Are Fablicator printers plug-and play?
Yes, all of our printers are already integrated with computers with all drivers and software pre-installed. You can go from .stl to part without installing anything.
Will I need to make a lot of adjustments to my printer to make good quality parts?
No, the included KISSlicer software contains pre-configured profiles which yield excellent quality parts from day one. Additionally, each machine comes calibrated from the factory, and only in rare cases will the bed level need to be adjusted at all.
How do I compare quality between 3D printers?
Many companies will tout theoretical resolution and fine layer heights. Unfortunately, these metrics are in most cases exaggerated and somewhat useless. The surface quality of parts produced depends heavily on a factors which can’t be easily distilled into a few advertised values. The only good way we’ve found is to take a look at the parts produced.
How fast is the Fablicator compared to other 3D printers?
Pretty fast. (200mm/s moves and up to 75mm/s print speeds.) However, speed depends heavily on acceleration and extrusion rate. We’ve seen lots of machines advertised with print speeds of 300-400mm/s, but accelerations so low they will never reach those speeds. We think the best comparison here is to have a part printed, and compare the total print time.
What programs can I use to design parts to print?
Any program which will output a non-intersecting watertight .stl mesh will work. This includes most solid modelling programs. The ones we see most commonly used are:
•Solidworks
•Inventor (free for .edu)
•Fusion 360 (free for .edu)
•TinkerCAD (free)
•Blender (free)
Where can I get parts to print without having to design them myself?
In addition to the included sample .stl files shipped with the printer, there are a number of online websites which have files available to download such as:
•Thingiverse
•YouMagine
•GrabCAD
What materials can the Fablicator print?
•PLA
•PET
•Woodfill PLA
•Brass/Copper Fill PLA
•PLA/PHA
•SemiFlex
•ABS
•HIPS
•AntiStatic PET
•AntiStatic ABS
•Nylon (must use different bed primer, and some work much better than others)
Is there a warranty in case something breaks on the Fablicator?
Yes, the Fablicator comes with a 1 year warranty, and extended warranties are also available.
What operating system will the Fablicator software work with?
The fablicator has all software built in to the Windows 64bit PC. No other PC is required.
Does the Fablicator require maintenance?
The fablicator requires some minor periodic maintenance, such as keeping the printer fans clear of dust and debris, cleaning off buildup at the nozzle tip, and lubricating the lead screws.
Where do I buy filament for my Fablicator
We recommend purchasing material from Fablicator as we source our filament through high-quality suppliers. However, you may use filament which is not from us, but we suggest only buying from well known reputable sources. Good quality filament is critical to the proper operation of the Fablicator 3D printers.
