[mman1506]

Originally Posted by EricH

3D printers can make rather large parts, if needed. I know of one that could do a 16"x16"x12" part if one was called for that big. I also know of some folks, myself included, who would advise finding a way to make the part out of 3-4 smaller ones in that case.

The thing to remember about 3D printers is that they can be either cheap or expensive, depending on type and model and size and material ($2K for a "hobbyist" is pretty normal, but larger sizes of other types can run into six figures). The other thing is that for most FRC teams, the main use will probably end up being small shields and protectors and spacers--which could be turned out on a lathe or mill.

That said, IF the 3D printer does happen, I would highly suggest building a RepRap-type 3D printer immediately--if you don't know how to use the machine after that, you really need help.

Are team has a 3D printer but we don't get a whole lot of use out of it. It takes a long time to print. Though are printer isn't very good (BFB). Personally I have found are retrofitted Novamill CNC mill a bit more useful which was about $1.5K. It is mainly used to make sprockets and gusset plates. We also have a larger DIY gantry CNC mill out of 8020 that was about $2.5K to make (less than a makerbot replicator)