# Summary of IRC Log Discussion (Nov 13, 2009)

• Participants discussed RepRap 3D printer development, with one user sharing that building a RepRap in a group setting was "1000 times easier" than alone, similar to Linux User Groups, though others expressed frustration with inactive local maker groups.

• A RepRap user reported an extruder failure after approximately 15 hours of print time, leading to a technical discussion about different extruder designs, including pinch wheel drives versus worm drives and the merits of different materials (plastic vs. metal components).

• Users debated the practicality of the "standard" RepRap extruder design, criticizing issues like the requirement for splined motor shafts (which one user modified with a Dremel tool) and the lack of automatic adjustment for mechanical slop.

• There was discussion about SKDB (a hardware design sharing platform), with mention that Thingiverse's Zach had expressed interest in integrating it, though some participants were skeptical this would happen.

• A user shared a link to a RepRap-printable construction kit on Thingiverse (thing:591), demonstrating proof of concept for previously discussed ideas about modular construction systems.

• The conversation touched on manufacturing processes and their geometric classifications, including metal spin forming and the importance of understanding appropriate manufacturing methods to avoid inefficient production (like machining a dome from a solid block).