[FTC]: Strengthening 3D printed parts

[CENTURION]

You could add some ribs to the design; some 45-degree ribs where the cup of the grabber meets that flange, and some 'U'-shaped ribs, or even a grid of ribs, around the cup shape would help.

[Enderbot]

You could possibly try covering it in fiberglass fabric and resin. Keeps its shape when the core is broken.

[Andrew Rudolph]

I have seen products that use the 3d printed part as a mold to make a part. Cast the part into silicone then use another plastic to cast from it. (see http://justindunham.net/2011/08/maki...printer-parts/ )

You can coat the plastic in resin, possibly with some reinforcing such as carbon fiber, fiberglass or microspheres, but I would be sure (And test) the plastic wont react to the resins. Also if you don't do it neatly it will show...nothing some sanding and a coat of paint wont cover hopefully

[FTC5096]

Thank you for the fiberglass recommendation. We will try it this weekend.