I wanted to try new slic3r multi-extruder features on my Replicator 1 using stock

3D Printing
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1

I wanted to try new slic3r multi-extruder features on my Replicator 1 using stock firmware 7, got it working by writing a post processing script: https://gist.github.com/tbuser/5074361

Then I used it to print my gearbox test using HIPS, currently soaking in a bottle of limonene: http://www.flickr.com/photos/tbuser/8522775217/in/photostream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/45898880@N00/8522775217

2

Still waiting for my HIPS. How does the it print? The similarity to ABS suggests that it would perform a lot better than PVA…

3

It pretty much seems to behave exactly like ABS and ABS adheres to HIPS MUCH better than PLA sticks to PVA. I’ve only printed 2 things with it so far, but it’s looking really good.

Now someone needs to figure out how to make it dissolve faster in limonene.

4

Based on the chemical composition, that’s exactly what I expected.

Obvious things to try to make it dissolve faster: agitation, aeration, heating, and obtaining more concentrated limonene.

5

Since ABS also contains styrene, does the limonene not change the ABS’ properties? I’d think the surfaces would get a lot softer since the other two components of ABS, butadiene and acrylonitrile, are of rubber-like consistency.

6

About 12 hours later, it’s mostly dissolved. Still some deep inside that are preventing the gears from turning, so back into the limonene it goes… http://www.flickr.com/photos/tbuser/8525137155/in/photostream/

7

So far ABS, PLA, and LAYWOO-D3 seems unaffected by limonene. Also, HIPS dissolves in acetone.

8

I wonder if it would take less time to dissolve if you used a magnetic stirplate or this DIY one - http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:42445 to keep the limonene flowing.