New Metal Framed Printrbot “Simple,” 3D Printer Unveiled

As many of you are already are aware, one of the largest 3D printer shows on the planet will take place this week in New York City. The “3D Print Show,” will likely bring with it a steady stream of announcements and news all week long, starting tomorrow, and going into Saturday, the 15th.

We got a sneak peak at Printrbot’s latest 3D printer, thanks to Makezine. The all new Printerbot Simple will officially be unveiled at the show this week. Unlike the original “Simple,” which was constructed out of laser cut plywood, this one is made out of steel and aluminum, giving it more durability. The device will support prints which are 2″ larger in all directions than that of the original Printrbot Simple. Objects can be printed which are up to 6″ X 6″ X 6″ in size. The Z-axis rods have also grown from 8mm to 12mm, allowing for this additional print volume.

The original Printrbot was funded way back in December of 2011 on Kickstarter. It touted itself as an affordable, smaller device, built on the Reprap framework, that anyone could use. The founder, Brook Drumm, originally set out to raise $25,000 via crowdfunding, but remarkably raised a staggering $830,000. The funding launched, not only a printer, but an entire company.

The new Printrbot Simple will be available for purchase this spring, and will likely be in the $500-$600 price range. The device is made in America, using a local Sacramento metal works shop for the basic frame of the printer.

Makezine was fortunate enough to interview Drumm, who showed off the prototype version of his latest printer. Check it out: