3d Printing and Scanning

The group assignment was to test the design rules of the 3D printer.

There are many parameters one can control on 3d printer. Out of this, Build speed, Extrusion Speed and Nozzle Temperature control are set by the operator

CREALITY ENDER-3 PRO

We used a test print object that can be found on Thingiverse.

This test print creates several unique 3D printing features in one object, like overhangs and pillars. It also creates several other features like lines and pockets of different sizes we could check the resolution of the printers.

Loading the Filament

Material: PLA We cut the filament at a 45 degree angle so it will easily go through the tube.

PRINTER SETTINGS

1. Resolution-   0.15mm
2. Infill-   30%
3. Nozzle temp-  210
4. Bed temp-   60

PRINTING

We then loaded the SD card in the machine, selected it for printing. Using glue/hairspray on the bed creates good adhesion. - On the printer, choose Print from TF on the menu.

RESULT

The quality of the print was very good and it helped us understand the limitations of the machine like the extent of overhang and the accuracy of some pockets.

OBSERVATIONS

  1. Layer heights- Resolution vs Time. Thickness of the layer height determines the resolution of the surface.
  2. Lower nozzle size = higher precision.
  3. Higher resolution = more printing time.
  4. Thickness of the casing must be a multiple of the diameter of the nozzle to prevent gaps from forming.
  5. 20% infill density can be used as a standard for most printers.
  6. Pay attention to the orientation: strength is more in the XY direction vs. Z direction.
  7. Print speed and temperature: You have to be careful with print speed and temperature when it comes to overhangs and bridges.
  8. If the temperature is too high it takes longer for the filament to cool down and solidify, and therefore once again giving it more change for it to fall.

PRINTING WITH PASTE (Creality ender-3 pro)

The fablab has been experimenting with printing with different materials for a while now and they have a modified ender-3 pro printer with a 3d printing extruder that can print with paste. Eduardo gave as a demo on how to use that machine to print with mashed potato and xanthum gum.

Some Gcode basics

RESULT

The model was too big for the paste used and failed to hold its own weight halfway through the print.