MakerBot Replicator 2

The MakerBot Replicator 2 3D printer brings ideas to life with easy to use and affordable to print features. Replicator 2 has a 100-micron layer resolution and a build space of 28.5 L x 15.3 W x 15.5 H cm. Please note that only Polylactic Acid (PLA) is compatible with Replicator 2, and will not work with Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) due to different melting temperatures. PLA filament is a renewable bioplastic which is harder and more brittle compared to ABS filament. It sticks firmly to the platform with minimal curling, shrinking, peeling, and sliding of your anticipated design.

Projects can be designed in a wide range of CAD software and must be saved as .stl file. Open source free software like MakerWare and ReplicatorG can convert .stl file to a MakerBot compatible .x3g file format used for 3D printing. Students can make 3D drawings using AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, and ProEngineer software available in ST-2M3 computer lab. In addition, thousands of ready-made designs, toys, and projects can be downloaded from Thingiverse and printed out from MakerBot.

A video overview of the MakerBot Replicator 2 can be found here.

How can I use the Replicator 2?

I want to use it by myself

In order to use the Replicator 2 you must be certified as a trained user. Please contact the Zahn Center's director Haytham Elhawary at ude.ynuc.yncc|yrawahleh#ude.ynuc.yncc|yrawahleh to organize training.

The training session will cover the basics of use of both the Makerbot Replicator 1 and Replicator 2. To receive your certification as a user you will be asked to complete an exercise. The contents of the training session can be found here. After fulfilling all the requirements you will be able to schedule a time for using the machine.

Use under the supervision of a Zahn SuperUser

Schedule an appointment on the machine reservations page.


Tutorials

Making Prints

This page provides step-by-step instructions on how to make 3D print on the MakerBot Replicator 2. Some helpful video tutorials can be found here.

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Using MakerWare

  1. Obtain an .stl file of a 3D model that you want to print. 3D models in .stl format can be obtained from Thingiverse or GrabCAD. Alternatively, you can create your own 3D model using CAD programs like SolidWorks, Rhino, or OpenSCAD and save your model in .stl format. Detailed instructions on building models using free CAD programs can be found here.
  2. Open MakerWare. To import the .stl file of the 3D model you want to print select file> open and select your desired .stl file. You should now see your selected 3D model placed on a virtual build plate. You can now move, turn or scale your 3D model using the options on the left.
    • Moving: To move the model click on the “Move(M)” option on the left, then on the model and manually move it to the desired position. You can also select the right pointing arrow next to the “Move(M)” option to move the model in increments in the X,Y, or Z plane.
    • Turning: To turn the object click on “Turn(T)” option on the left, then the model and manually turn it in the desired position. You can also select the right pointing arrow next to the “Turn(T)” option to turn the object in increments in the X, Y, or Z plane.
    • Scaling: To scale the model click on the “Scale(S)” option on the left, then on the model and manually scale the model to the desired size. You can also select the right pointing arrow next to the “Scale(S)” option to scale the model in increments in the X, Y, or Z plane.
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  3. After your model looks as desired, click on the MakerBot “M” labeled “Make it.” This will prompt you to save any modifications that you've made to the 3D model in MakerWare, like scaling, moving or turning the model. You can select “Yes” to save the changes and proceed or “No” to proceed to without saving the modifications.
  4. A prompt will now appear to select specifics about exporting the model.
    • Under “I want to” select “Export to a file”
    • Under “Export for” select “The Replicator Single”
    • Under “Material” select either “PLA” or “ABS,” depending on the material you plan on using.
    • Under “Quality” select “Medium” and to the far right select “Raft” and “Support.” Objects that contain overhanging parts need support, however objects that don’t contain overhanging parts can be printed without support. Advanced options can be ignored, unless specifics are needed for object infill and/or layer height.
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  5. Next select “Export” and save model as an .x3g file.
  6. Obtain an SD card and transfer the .x3g file of the model to the SD card.
  7. Insert the SD into the MakerBot Replicator 1’s SD card slot.
  8. On the Replicator 1’s LCD select “Build from SD” by pressing the red “M” button.
  9. Select the desired .x3g file and press the red “M” button again. The build plate should start heating up then the extruder will heat up. The heating up process should take about 30 minutes.

Using ReplicatorG

  1. Obtain an .stl file of a 3D model that you want to print. 3D models in .stl format can be obtained from Thingiverse or GrabCAD. Alternatively, you can create your own 3D model using CAD programs like SolidWorks, Rhino, or OpenSCAD and save your model in .stl format. Detailed instructions on building models using free CAD programs can be found here. If you are using Thingiverse, find you choice of design and click Download this Thing. Save the .stl file on your computer so you can easily retrieve it.
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  2. Open ReplicatorG. To import the .stl file of the 3D model you want to print select file> open
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  3. Browse your computer to retrieve your desired .stl file.
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  4. You should now see your selected 3D model placed on a virtual build plate. You can now move, turn or scale your 3D model using the options on the right.
    • Moving: To move the model, click on the “Move” option on the bottom right ribbon. Then click on the model and manually move it to the desired position. You can also move the model in increments in the X,Y, or Z plane by selecting the plane tabs on the right.
    • Rotating: To rotate the object, click on “Rotate” option on the bottom right ribbon. Then click on the model and manually rotate it in the desired position. You can also rotate the object in increments in the X, Y, or Z plane by selecting the plane tabs on the upper right.
    • Scaling: To scale the model, click on the “Scale” option on the bottom right ribbon. Then click on the model and manually scale the model to the desired size. You can also scale the model in increments by typing the desired size in the scale box on the right.
  5. After modifications are done it is time to generate GCode for the model. There are two ways of doing so:
    • By clicking on "GCode" on top left and scroll down to "Generate" and click on that tab.
    • By clicking on "Model to GCode" on top left ribbon or "Generate to GCode" as shown in the image.
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      A "Generate GCode" menu will pop up. From here you can select which extruder to use and other useful setting options such as rafting. For now click on the "Generate Code" tab on the bottom.

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  6. Next you will be prompted to save any modifications that you've made to the 3D model in ReplicatorG if you have not already done so. You can select “Yes” to save the changes and proceed or “No” to proceed to without saving the modifications.
  7. Now you need to generate the file that can be out on the SD card and printed locally on the printer. Either by clicking on "Built to file for use with SD card" on top left ribbon or clicking on "GCode" on top left and scroll down to "Build" and click on that tab. You will again be prompted to save the new file.
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    Note: select the format of the file depending on the firmware on your makerbot.

  8. Obtain an SD card and transfer the .x3g file of the model to the SD card.
  9. Insert the SD into the MakerBot Replicator 1’s SD card slot.
  10. On the Replicator 1’s LCD select “Build from SD” by pressing the red “M” button.
  11. Select the desired .x3g file and press the red “M” button again.

Post Processing

After your print is complete and all the rafting and support materails are removed you can perform post processing to get a finer finish on your model. So far there are two recommended ways to get a better finish on your model these are filing or acetone treatment. 

  • Filing

Simply obtain fine grain sand paper or a fine grain file and gently file down rough edges. Be carefuly not to press on the model too hard when filing since this can damage the model and loosen some more filaments. Depending on the finish you want, a circular motion while filing usually works best. If need be, you can wipe the model down with a damp cloth to remove residual filings.  

  • Acetone
  1. Acetone is widely used to dissolve plastics. To obtain a finer finish on your model using acetone simply pour some into either a glass, metallic, or ceramic container (plastic containers can dissolve). Obtain a clean cloth and while using gloves dip an edge of the cloth into the acetone and gently rub the cloth onto the model. Repeat this a few times until the finish is smooth or to your liking. Pressing gently while rubbing the acetone on usually helps the layered filaments fuse. 
  2. An alternative to rubbing the model down with acetone, is to perform an acetone bath. To do this pour some acetone into a large container either metallic, ceramic or glass. Then suspend your model over the acetone making sure that the model DOES NOT touch the acetone. Then cover the container, leaving a small hole about 2- 3 cm wide. The hole will allow the acetone to evaporate and should smoothen the model in the process. Leave the model undisturbed for about 24 hours and repeat if necessary.  

FAQ

The following is from MakerBot.

What is Desktop 3D Printing?

3D printing, also called additive manufacturing, means making things layer by layer according to a 3D design file. This differs from traditional manufacturing, such as machining, which often involves subtracting a material in order to achieve a certain shape. 3D printers have a history of being very large and expensive; however, MakerBot sells top-of-the-line 3D printers that are made, priced, and sized for the desktop. The MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer measures 38 x 49 x 32 cm (14.7 x 19.1 x 12.8 in), making it ideal for a workspace or tabletop at home or in the office.

What’s new about the MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer?

The MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer is the easiest, fastest, and most affordable tool for making professional quality models. The MakerBot Replicator 2 sets a new standard in resolution and accuracy (true-to-life models) and build volume (size of model). Constructed with an industrial strength pressed steel frame, which has advantages for both form and function: the machine looks perfect in an office, lab, workbench, and even the living room and is durable enough to withstand high 3D printing speeds. Top features include:

  • 100-micron layer resolution.
  • Very large build volume: 410 in3 (11.2 L x 6.0 W x 6.1 H in) / 6691.0 cm3 (28.4 x 15.5 x 15.2 cm).
  • No-curl, no-shrink MakerBot PLA Filament, a sturdy, renewable bioplastic.
  • Professionally engineered and expertly built for speed.
  • Pop-out build platform for convenient print retrieval.
  • New MakerBot MakerWare software that speeds the 3D printing process.
  • Brand new look and feel.

How good is the quality of the MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer?

The MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer sets an entirely new standard in resolution and accuracy. The MakerBot Replicator 2 has a layer resolution of 100 microns (0.1 mm). That’s over 2.5 times finer than the default layer resolution of the first generation MakerBot Replicator Desktop 3D Printer, meaning users can make objects so smooth they don’t need sanding or any other post-production. Experienced users will have the freedom to work in even higher layer resolutions.

How big is the build space on the MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer?

The MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer has a very large build volume of 410 cubic inches (11.2” L x 6.0” W x 6.1” H). The MakerBot Replicator 2 gives users 37% more space to build in than the first generation MakerBot Replicator Desktop3D Printer, meaning users can think and make bigger than ever. The new build volume is ideal for large architectural or mechanical models, or for projects with many different parts, such as a model car. With all that build space, MakerBot operators can also make several different things at once, meaning they save time for the next projects on their lists.

What can a MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer make?

The MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer is an ideal machine for making true-to-life replicas, high-resolution models, functioning prototypes, visual aids, real world products, and more. Designed and optimized for the renewable bio-plastic PLA, The MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer makes things quickly and efficiently that not only look great, but also feel amazing to the touch.

What software and operating system do you need to run a MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer?

The MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems. In order for your computer to communicate with the MakerBot Replicator 2, you need to download our new MakerBot MakerWare Desktop 3D Printer software. MakerWare is free software that includes everything you need to prepare models for your MakerBot, including a lightning fast toolpath engine and a brand new user-friendly interface.

What is the layer resolution of the MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer?

The 100 micron layer resolution setting on the MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer enables users will be able to create smooth, professional-quality objects right off the build platform, with no sanding or post-production needed. With MakerBot’s new user-friendly MakerWare software, experienced users have the freedom to explore even finer resolutions, down to 20 microns.

How are MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printers made?

Every single MakerBot Desktop 3D Printer is assembled and tested by skilled labor in our Brooklyn, New York factory.

What is the difference between the MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer and the MakerBot?

What’s great about MakerBot PLA Filament?

MakerBot PLA Filament is the perfect source material for making detailed, beautiful, professional-quality models and final products. Our materials research department has put countless hours into developing reliable filament that sticks to the platform without peeling, cracking, or curling. Even better, MakerBot PLA Filament is highly reliable, even without a heated platform, saving you 32% in energy costs. MakerBot PLA Filament comes in a variety of colors and effects, including translucent, fluorescent, glittery and metallic.

What is Thingiverse?

At MakerBot’s website Thingiverse, MakerBot owners can access and contribute to a “universe of things.” Over 28,000 projects, models, and things are available that can be downloaded and printed on a MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printer!


Support

Replacing the Spools

The Replicator 2 uses uses two spools of printing material. At times you may want to choose a different color of printing material or the printing material may be depleted.

When replacing the printing material be sure to line the filament up according to the diagram on the back of the Replicator 2, to keep resistance at a minimum.

To replace the filament:

  1. Go the Replicator 2's LCD and press the down arrow on the keypad until you see "Utilities."Press the "M" button, this will bring you to the utilities menu.
  2. Press the down button again until you get to "Unload (right/left) filament."
  3. Press the "M" button again to select the filament unload option. This will then heat up the extruder that you want to remove the filament from.
  4. When prompted by the MakerBot, gently press down on the gray circular ring at the top of the extruder and pull back the gray tubing to expose the filament.
  5. Gently pull on the filament to remove it from the extruder.
  6. On the back of the Replicator 2 squeeze down on the two extruding spool holders and gently pull of the material spool.
  7. Obtain a new spool of material and slide the center of the spool onto the spool holders at the back of the Replicator 2. Be sure to match the rotation of the spool to the diagram on the back of the replicator.
  8. Repeat step 1 to enter the utilities menu.
  9. Press the down button until you see "Load (right/left) filament."
  10. Press the "M" button to select the filament loading option. This will heat up the appropriate extruder and the Replicator 2 alert you when the extruder is hot enough.
  11. When prompted by the Replicator 1 pass the filament through the gray tube on the appropriate side and insert the filament into the the top of the extruder.
  12. Guide the gray tube back to the top of the extruder and press down on the gray ring at the top of the extruder. After some time you should see a thin piece of filament coming out the nozzle of the extruder.
  13. When about 4 inches have come out of the extruder press the "M" button to stop the the filament.

At this point you have successfully replaced the filament and are ready to make a print!

Leveling the Plate

At times the Replicator 2's printing platform may become unleveled causing the 3D prints to be distorted or miss aligned. To alleviate this you can level the build platform.

To level the build plate:

  1. Go to the Replicator 2's LCD and press the down button until you see "Utilities" highlighted.
  2. Press the "M" button to enter the utilities menu.
  3. Press the down button until you see "Level build plate" highlighted.
  4. Press the "M" button again to bring up the leveling instructions on the LCD.
  5. Carefully follow the steps on the LCD to level the plate. Note this will involve adjusting the screws located under the build plate.
  6. Tighten all three screws.
  7. During the calibration the extruders will be placed in five different positions to level the plate. Rotating the screws clockwise will increase the gap between the extruders and plate.
  8. Rotating the screws counter-clockwise will decrease the gap between the extruders and plate. There are four adjusting screws.
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