FilaFab Desktop Extrusion System for 3D Printing Filaments

FilaFab Prototype Extrusion System

Edward Clifford of the UK has developed a filament extrusion system for recycling scrap plastic into filament of the type used in 3D printers like the MakerBot Replicator. It can also use PLA and ABS plastics in pellet form, which can be purchased in bulk quantities. The goal is to give the 3D printer user a means to create his or her own filament at lower cost.

Clifford launched his FilaFab Kickstarter project on April 22 with a goal of raising  £4,000. Two days ahead of its June 1 closing date, the project has over 70 backers pledging a total of almost £18,000 (approximately $27,000US).

He claims that the system can extrude filament at a rate of 1.2meters per minute (47inches per minute), at an average power consumption of 210W. Check out the short video below to see it in action. Clifford has more videos of the system at the project's Kickstarter page.

Update: The FilaFab Kickstarter project ended June 1st with a total of £21,323 pledeged by 89 backers, over five times its funding goal. Congratulations to Edward Clifford on its success.