3d Printing

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3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing (AM), refers to the processes used to create a three-dimensional object in which successive layers of material are formed to create an object. Objects can be of almost any shape or geometry and are produced using digital model data from a 3D model.

3D Printers

The 3D printers found in our lab are:

  • The Ultimaker 2   4 lots
  • The Big Builder   2 lots (soon 4 lots)

Ultimaker 2 is used to make small and quick projects, they are the most common type of printers at the moment. Different sizes of nozzles can be installed on the Ultimaker 2.

Big Builder is used for bigger or complexer projects, these machines can print twice the height of a Ultimaker 2. The dual-feed extruder on this printer enables it to print in 2 different materials or colours.

To find the exact specifications of the machines go to the machines section.

Printing your 3D model

For printing your 3D model, you need the following:

  • 3D modelling software
  • Cura
  • SD-card (usually available in the lab)
  • Filament


3D Modelling Software

To be able to print a 3D model you need a digital model of what you are willing to make. These models can be created in a variety of different software like:

  • SolidWorks
  • Rhino 3D
  • SchetchUp (STL Exporter required)
  • Tinkercad
  • OpenSCAD


Cura

To prepare your model for 3D printing software like Cura is used. Cura is a useful tool to positioned your model on the build plate and adjust the settings of your print. For novices there are 4 main settings Fast print - Normal print - High quality - Ulti quality. Switching to full setting under the drop-down menu 'Expert' we find over 200 possible settings for the machine. This software is also used to add supports for overhanging material in your model.

Cura is an opensource software developed specially for the Ultimaker family and can be downloaded for free. Make sure you have the most recent update of Cura to avoid problems. Cura can directly be used to print on the Ultimaker 2. To use Cura to print on the Big Builders use the software provided.


SD card

To transport your file to the printer, you need a standard sized SD-card. Often one will be available in the lab.


Filaments

3D printers can handle different types of filament: PLA being the most common type. For more info about the types of filaments go to filaments.

Printing Procedures

Before printing

  • The build-plate needs to be clean before you start your print, make sure no residue from prior prints is stuck to the plate. The build-plate can be cleaned with soap and water. Make sure the build-plate is dry when you start your print. Don't remove the plate if it's lightly contaminated.
  • Check if the printer has enough filament. Cura will show how many meters filament is required for your print.
  • Make sure the right nozzle is installed on the printer. Cura has settings for different nozzle sizes. Matching the nozzle size on the machine with the size in Cura will greatly improve your print. The nozzle can bechanged using a tool found in the lab. Make sure the nozzle is cool before touching it. The nozzle can be EXTREMELY hot with temperatures of 260°C.


During the print

  • Make sure you watch the first layer of the print. This give you a good indication how your print will turn out and if the printer is calibrated right. If the print is to thin this can mean your build-plate is to close to the nozzle or the feeder isn't pushing enough material into the nozzle.
  • Do not touch your print if the printer is still printing. Support material should be removed AFTER the print is completed. Any vibration of the build-plate can cause a corruption in your print.


After the print

  • Don't pull your print off of a hot build-plate. This can cause your print to be warped. Let the build-plate cool to a temperature of 36°C. The cooler your build-plate the easier it is to remove your print. A spatula can help when a print is stuck to the build-plate. The air compressor can be used to cool the plate down.
  • Leave a clean build-plate for the next person using the printer.