Techniques, guides and projects for makers
Bylined, independent deep dives: how to work a material, which machine to choose, what we have actually built.
Tutorial / How-to
How to Read and Calculate Welder Duty Cycle: A Practical Guide
Duty cycle is the essential parameter to prevent welder overheating. This guide explains how to interpret rating plate …
Tutorial / How-to
MIG/MAG welding: how to choose wire diameter, amperage and material thickness
Wire diameter, current and workpiece thickness are chosen together, not separately. A practical guide to reading the pa…
Approfondimento
Types of 3D printing: FDM, resin and powder compared
The three families of 3D printing — filament, resin and powder — explained with strengths, limits and typical uses. Whi…
Approfondimento
FDM or resin: which 3D printing is right for you
FDM for functional parts, prototypes, and large objects; resin for the fine detail of miniatures and jewelry. Practical…
Approfondimento
PLA vs PETG: which filament to choose (and when)
PLA is easier and more precise; PETG is tougher and better resists heat and moisture. Concrete differences — temperatur…
Tutorial / How-to
Anatomy of a diode laser: how the module that engraves and cuts is really built
Diode, collimating lens, beam combining, compressed spot and air assist: every component of a diode laser module has a …
Tutorial / How-to
Lathe Anatomy: A Complete Guide to Component Nomenclature
Bed, headstock, tailstock, carriage and slides: every lathe component has a precise name and a specific function. A pra…
Approfondimento
Anatomy of a high-flow hotend: how bi-metal and CHT designs work to print at 500 mm/s
High-flow hotends — from the Volcano geometry to CHT designs with a three-channel insert — melt filament fast enough to…
Comparison