I've never owned a 3D printer and I'm 'bout a second from pulling the trigger on the FT-6 mainly because of the build quality and volume.
Background: I'm have Mil-AVI experience and certified in NASA/NAVAIR miniature and micro Electronics repair. 3D printing is beyond my scope, though we have a Research and Engineering department that I'm currently in training with on their FDM, which is PLA based.
My absolute main reason for getting into 3D Printing is because of a vehicle that I'm rebuilding. Basic parts that are old-new stock are incredibly expensive; beyond economical even for a BMW owner. Automotive use is the main purpose.
Basic research suggests that Nylon, ASA, PPS, PEEK, ULTEM 1010, ULTEM 9085, Carbon Impregnated and GFR Materials are seemingly top for engineering and chemical applications; as well as high heat tolerances and resistance.
Those are my material goals, for application practicality.
Now, keeping costs down is an improbability, but I'm not about to get a divorce either for an ineffective hobby.
Question 1: What heated beds have the dimensions of the FT-6, and a temp up to 230c.
Question 2: What Extruder can handle temps of up to 440c.
Question 3: Would this printer be able to accommodate, albeit absolutely massive, sealed enclosure that can be headed upwards of 120c. I've been tossing emails with the people that built the PEI FDM heating the object with infrared lamps.
I'd also like to know what would be the solution to protect the electronics?
What are your engineering ideas?
If i'm going with 3D printing, I'm going all the way, but not for $3000 for pot-metal-sintered-chinesium.
