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Why are 3D printers so popular? Honestly the idea is not new. We've been laser cutting, designing, and having machines assemble, mold, and melt things for a long time. We have machines that will cut a precise part out of a piece of steel with ease. 3D printers are HUGE and are no different than the tools we've been using for probably decades now.
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You are correct, they are not new and we have had CNC controlled mills, lathes, water jets, ... for decades. However, personable 3D printers can be made for less than $500 and do not make a lot of noise, are not terribly dangerous to use and can create things in plastic and materials these other machines can't. That's enough to make them popular.

mhackney wrote:You are correct, they are not new and we have had CNC controlled mills, lathes, water jets, ... for decades. However, personable 3D printers can be made for less than $500 and do not make a lot of noise, are not terribly dangerous to use and can create things in plastic and materials these other machines can't. That's enough to make them popular.

+1 and because we can.

I blame the fluoride in the water supply.

Also I can't put a CNC on a desk next to my computer in my office.