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About 3D printing

About 3D printing

 

How to get started with 3D printing?

First, you will need to have a 3D model that you want to print. You can choose from many different sources, such as online marketplaces where you can download pre-made models, or you can use 3D modeling software to create your own.

Next, you will need to prepare the printer. This involves setting up the print bed, adjusting the temperature, and possibly performing other calibrations on the printer. Then, you will need to select the material that you want to print with. Popular materials include plastic filaments such as ABS or PLA.

Now, you will need to prepare the software for printing. There are many different programs that will help you prepare your model for printing. These programs will allow you to set some printing parameters, such as resolution, layer thickness, or printing speed.

Once everything is set up, you can simply start the print and watch your model come to life as it is printed. Keep in mind that printing on a 3D printer can take several hours or even days, depending on the size and complexity of the model.

How to choose a 3D printer?

Choosing a 3D printer depends on several factors, such as price, print size, print accuracy, print speed, and availability of spare parts. Here are some steps to get started:

  • Determine what models you will be printing. If you will be printing small models with high accuracy, you will need a different printer than for printing large models with lower accuracy.
  • Set a budget. 3D printers range in price, so it is important to determine how much money you are willing to invest.
  • Compare technical specifications. Find out what materials the printer supports, what its maximum print size is, and how accurately it can print.
  • Determine how user-friendly the printer is. Some printers are easy to assemble and work with, while others require more maintenance and can be more complicated to operate.
  • Check the availability of spare parts. Keep in mind that 3D printers sometimes break down and you may need some spare parts. Find out if spare parts are available for the printer you are considering and how easy they are to obtain.
  • Read reviews and get advice from other users. Reading reviews and getting advice from other users can be helpful in deciding which printer is the best fit for you.

Finally, it is important to keep in mind that no printer is perfect and there are always certain compromises to be made. The best printer for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.

What materials can be printed from and what are the recommended temperatures for 3D printing?

There are many materials that can be printed on a 3D printer. The most commonly used materials are plastics, metal and ceramic alloys, and even rubber and liquid resins. Among the most commonly used plastics are ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) and PLA (polylactide).

Print and bed temperatures vary depending on the material you are using. Here are some recommended temperatures for several commonly used materials:

  • PLA (Polylactic acid): print temperature 180-220°C, bed temperature 50-60°C
  • ABS (Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene): print temperature 220-250°C, bed temperature 100-110°C
  • PETG (Glycol-modified PET): print temperature 220-240°C, bed temperature 70-80°C
  • Nylon: print temperature 240-260°C, bed temperature 70-100°C
  • PET (Polyethylene terephthalate): print temperature 240-260°C, bed temperature 70-80°C
  • TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane): print temperature 220-240°C, bed temperature 40-60°C
  • TPE (Thermoplastic elastomer): print temperature 220-240°C, bed temperature 40-60°C
  • PETT (T-Glase, PETT is a variant of PET): print temperature 240-260°C, bed temperature 70-80°C
  • PC (Polycarbonate): print temperature 260-280°C, bed temperature 110-120°C
  • PP (Polypropylene): print temperature 240-260°C, bed temperature 70-80°C
  • HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene): print temperature 240-260°C, bed temperature 110-120°C
  • ASA (Acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate): print temperature 240-260°C, bed temperature 70-80°C
  • PVA (Polyvinyl alcohol): print temperature 180-220°C, bed temperature 40-50°C

Keep in mind that these temperatures are only recommended values and may vary depending on the specific 3D printer and settings. It is always a good idea to check your printers documentation or visit online forums where you can get advice from other users.

What is the difference between FDM and SLA printer?

FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and SLA (Stereolithography) are both 3D printing technologies that differ in how they print models.

FDM printers work by extruding a liquid plastic material onto a print bed in layers. The material is heated to a temperature where it solidifies, creating the model. FDM printers are more affordable and easier to use, but are less accurate and produce lower quality prints than SLA printers.

SLA printers work by using a print head to precisely cure a photopolymer printing resin with light. This causes the resin to solidify and create the model. SLA printers are more accurate and produce higher quality prints than FDM printers, but are more expensive and complex to operate.

Depending on your needs and requirements, you will need to decide which type of printer is the best fit for you. FDM printers may be a good choice for those on a budget or those who are new to 3D printing, while SLA printers may be a better choice for those who need high accuracy and high quality prints.

Where can I download STL 3D models for 3D printing?

  • Thingiverse (https://www.thingiverse.com/) - one of the largest online marketplaces for 3D models, where you can find thousands of freely downloadable models in various categories.
  • MyMiniFactory (https://www.myminifactory.com/) - another popular marketplace with a wide range of 3D models available for download.
  • CGTrader (https://www.cgtrader.com/) - a marketplace with over 6 million 3D models in more than 30 different categories.
  • Pinshape (https://www.pinshape.com/) - an online marketplace with thousands of 3D models for various types of 3D printers.
  • 3DExport (https://www.3dexport.com/) - a marketplace with over 8,000 3D models in more than 50 categories.
  • TurboSquid (https://www.turbosquid.com/) - a marketplace with over 300,000 3D models for various purposes.
  • 3DShook (https://www.3dshook.com/) - a marketplace with a focus on high-quality 3D models for professional use.
  • Sketchfab (https://sketchfab.com/) - a platform that allows you to browse, share, and download 3D models from a large community of creators.
  • Cults (https://cults3d.com/) - a marketplace with a wide range of 3D models for various purposes, including 3D printing.
  • Shapeways (https://www.shapeways.com/) - a platform that allows you to upload your own 3D models and have them printed and shipped to you.
  • GrabCAD (https://www.grabcad.com/) - a community-driven platform with a large library of 3D models, including models specifically designed for 3D printing.
  • CG Trader (https://www.cgtrader.com/) - a marketplace with over 6 million 3D models in more than 30 different categories.
  • Threeding (https://www.threeding.com/) - a marketplace with a focus on high-quality 3D models for professional use.
  • Yeggi (https://www.yeggi.com/) - a search engine that helps you find 3D models from multiple sources.
  • 3D Warehouse (https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/) - a library of 3D models created with SketchUp, a popular 3D modeling software.
  • 3Dagogo (https://www.3dagogo.com/) - a marketplace with a wide range of 3D models for various purposes, including 3D printing.