Questions for those who use 3D printers

[Scott Colmer]

I am trying to replicate a set of valve covers. The largest issue is the Upper and lower case Detroit Diesel raised lettering. I have only found the raised lettering in all caps.

So here are my questions:

 

1) How small can 3D printing go? These letters are maybe 2-3mm high. 

2) What do you need to send a 3D printer?

3) If it could work, what would be an approximate cost for a set of 2 valve covers.

 

1:1 valve cover

Hosted on Fotki

What I have to work with

Hosted on Fotki

Thanks for your insights.

[Foxer]

You need a 3D mesh file of the proper type to send to the printer. The lettering might come out ok though you may have to try a few prints and adjustments to get it just right. I had some turn signal light pods printed by Shapeways and they cost about $5 plus about the same shipping. The detail that printed well on these is probably finer than your lettering. The pods are a bit over a quarter inch long.

This is a rendering of the 3D file I sent. It's a 1/24 model

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited February 22, 2017 by Foxer

[Scott Colmer]

Thanks for the info. I'll have to figure out how to get a 3D mesh file. The price is right.