Australian 3D printing is currently booming and hobbyists, engineers and educators continue to challenge the limits of desktop fabrication. Although the world market presents infinite possibilities, there is a clear change in direction and more and more locals are opting to work with local sources of their components and consumables. This choice is not simply due to patriotism it is a practical one that is based on reliability, speed and special support that international giants cannot afford to compete with.
Shipment Speed and Reliability
Time is of the devil to anyone who has ever tried to get a nozzle clear or a stepper motor burn out half way through the project. Making international orders to get a replacement part usually takes weeks to arrive and there is always a risk of damage during the long haul shipping, not mentioning the irregularity of the customs. Local suppliers on the other hand can frequently ship out an order the same day, with vital hardware arriving in your doorstep in Brisbane, Sydney, or Melbourne anywhere in 48 hours.
This is fast turnaround and it is important in business that deals with print farms or students who have to meet deadlines. The DREMC Store website will make you think you are viewing inventory that is physically on-site at Australia when you visit the site. This removes the drop-shipping lottery game where one could wait a month to receive a generic component. The fact that your filament or upgrade kit is only a short courier ride away gives you a feeling of security that enables the makers to plan their projects with the assurance that they will work.
Cultivated Quality and Compatibility
In the number of 3D printing parts that can be ordered online, the quantity is overwhelming and the quality is not always equal. A generic part that has been purchased in one of the huge global markets may come in with very low tolerances or connectors that are incompatible. The local Australian suppliers are more liberal with their inventory, keeping brands and components that are proven to be reliable.
Such suppliers are aware of the local market demands. They usually have certain upgrades on the popular machines that have been used in the area, so that they would be compatible. More over, they are subject to the Australian Consumer Law which provides warranties and return policies that are in fact enforceable. In case a motherboard is received dead, the solution to the problem can be done just through a phone call or e-mail instead of a long-term argument with a foreign retailer.
Professional Assistance and Social Networking
In addition to hardware, it has local suppliers who provide a layer of expertise that cannot be underestimated. By purchasing through a specialist retailer in Australia, you are likely to purchase through other enthusiasts that are aware of technical aspects of 3D printing. They will be able to provide information on the best hotend to choose to print PETG or can assist in trouble shooting your extruder not moving.
Such a relationship builds a better local ecosystem. Maker faires, school programmes and online forums have many local suppliers who give back to the community that supports them. Such relationship makes a plain transaction an alliance where the supplier has a vested interest in your success.
Conclusion
Although this attraction of cheap overseas shipping has not been forgotten, the physical advantages of local purchases have prevailed among the Australian craftsmen. Since lightning fast delivery and consumer protections are included as well as professional consultation and local support, local suppliers offer the high-quality of reliability that should be taken into consideration by serious 3D printing users. To printmakers who appreciate their time and print quality, being local is the most intelligent upgrade of all.
