OT: Print your own carbon fiber parts
 

Sometimes it can be difficult to find parts that fit folding bikes and mini velos. I've been watching the 3D printing market with great interest but don't think the printed parts would be durable enough for cycling. But this 3D carbon fiber printer might change that:

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=364943
https://markforged.com/

I don't have $5k lying around though. :p

How are the fiber weaves going to be reproduced?

still a hundred years to go for of the Star Trek replicator to be invented ..

Found this on their FAQ page:

Q: I usually see composite parts that are made from woven sheets. How do you print with a weave?

A: The Mark One™ does not print with a weave, it deposits layers of unidirectional composite in a user-defined orientation that can be specified by layer. In general, unidirectional composites have a higher strength-to-weight ratio in the preferred fiber orientation than composites made with woven fabrics.

I was thinking it would have to pultruded CF... I've looked into pultruded CF tubes in the past when I was silly and thinking of trying to build a bike frame out of it as my first try.

Timeshare buy anyone? :D A good question also would be what's the material/energy cost.

composite is also catalyzed epoxy a chemical reaction of resin and a catalyst.

color me skeptical material science degreed professionals welcome to chime in..

Really depends what they use for each part.. I don't imagine they're going to specify very much to us either as I'd imagine it's part of their proprietary process.