Tag Archives: fdm

Mastering FDM 3D Printing

Mastering FDM 3D Printing

Introduction: Unveiling Best Practices

In the realm of additive manufacturing, Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) 3D printing stands tall as a versatile and accessible technology. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned maker, mastering FDM 3D printing requires a keen understanding of its nuances and best practices. In this article, we’ll explore the essential guidelines that will empower you to unlock the full potential of FDM 3D printing.

1. Choosing the Right Filament:

Selecting the appropriate filament material is paramount to achieving successful FDM 3D prints. Different materials possess varying properties such as strength, flexibility, and heat resistance. PLA, ABS, PETG, and TPU are popular choices, each catering to specific applications. Research your project’s requirements and opt for a filament that aligns with your desired outcome.

SUNLU's product range encompasses all popular 3D printer filaments such as PLA, PLA+, PETG, ABS, TPU, and various modified PLA filaments

SUNLU’s product range encompasses all popular 3D printer filaments such as PLA, PLA+, PETG, ABS, TPU, and various modified PLA filaments

2. Calibrating Printer Settings:

Proper calibration of your 3D printer is the cornerstone of quality prints. Pay meticulous attention to bed levelling, nozzle height, and extrusion rate. A well-calibrated printer ensures consistent layer adhesion and prevents issues like warping and uneven prints.

3D Printer Calibration Articles by Simplify3D

3D Printer Calibration Articles by Simplify3D

3. Optimising Print Design:

An intelligently designed 3D model contributes to successful FDM printing. Consider minimising overhangs, using support structures judiciously, and optimising infill density helps to strike a balance between strength and material usage. Utilise software tools like Meshmixer or PrusaSlicer to refine your designs before printing.

Optimising your 3D Prints

Optimising your 3D Prints

4. Temperature and Cooling Management:

Maintaining proper printing temperatures and effective cooling mechanisms is vital. Experiment with different temperature settings to find the sweet spot for your filament. Employ dedicated part cooling fans to enhance overhang performance and overall print quality.

FDM 3D Printing Temperature and Cooling Management

FDM 3D Printing Temperature and Cooling Management

5. Bed Adhesion Techniques:

Adequate bed adhesion is critical to prevent warping and ensure a successful print. Experiment with options like painter’s tape, BuildTak, glass beds, or specialized adhesion sprays. Employing a heated bed can further enhance adhesion for certain materials.

3DLACIts function is to hold the first plastic coat in order to hold the start of the printing steady, avoiding undesirable mistakes.

3DLAC Its function is to hold the first plastic coat in order to hold the start of the printing steady, avoiding undesirable mistakes.

6. Post-Processing Excellence:

Don’t overlook post-processing steps for that professional finish. Sanding, painting, or smoothing with acetone vapor can transform your FDM prints into polished masterpieces. Clean up any stringing or imperfections to elevate your final product.

7. Maintenance and Upkeep for Mastering FDM 3D Printing:

Regular maintenance of your 3D printer guarantees consistent performance. Keep the printer clean, lubricate moving parts, and replace worn-out components as needed. A well-maintained printer produces high-quality prints over the long term.

8. Joining the FDM Community:

Engaging with the FDM 3D printing community can accelerate your learning curve. Participate in online forums, social media groups, and workshops to share insights, troubleshoot issues, and stay updated on the latest trends.

MATTER HACKS - 36 of the Best 3D Printing Facebook Groups

MATTER HACKS – 36 of the Best 3D Printing Facebook Groups

Conclusion:

FDM 3D printing is a captivating journey that rewards those who embrace its intricacies. By following these best practices, you’ll harness the power of this technology to create remarkable prints that push the boundaries of your imagination. Remember, each successful print is a step closer to becoming a true FDM 3D printing maestro.

External Links:

1. 3D Printing Filament Guide
2. Advanced FDM Printing Techniques
3. Troubleshooting Common FDM Printing Issues

Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide general information and guidelines for FDM 3D printing. Always refer to your specific printer and filament manufacturer’s recommendations for best results.

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3D Printing in Resin : Parts – Dyson Hoover

3D Printing in Resin

3D Printing Leeds has recently moved into MSLA Resin Printing and these new facilities were just what was needed for this replacement part for an old Dyson hoover.


Traditional FDM 3D printing struggles to get the super-smooth finish required on all sides and surfaces, as the support material affects both the dimensions and fit too much. However this 3D  printing produced a super smooth and strong print to exacting dimensions and finish. It took a lot longer to print with resin compared to FDM but it is more reliable and produced far, far better results.

Website Showcase: https://www.3dprintingleeds.co.uk/3d-showcase/
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3D Resin Printing – Upgrading Machines

3D Resin Printing

Like every company, at 3D Printing Leeds we purchase our 3D Resin Printing machines off-the-shelf from specialist companies but this does not mean those printers are perfect and ready to go. They all need checking and improving and then maintaining.

With our 3D Resin Printers, we found that its fumes were leaking even though the manufacturer had provided some kind of air filter. The lid did not fit well either and the fumes escaped under it.
We found some modifications online that we could 3D Print on our FDM printers but those files were old and did not fit or seal well to the current machine model.

So, true to our business, we re-engineered the part to fit the current manufactures tolerances and then improved on it too.

Pictured below is a gasket: we changed the profile to fit tightly to the base unit, to skirt the filter unit (see our previous post on this). We also deepened the channels for the lid to provide a solid firm fit. We also sourced some very thin foam strip to seal both the top and bottom fitment.

Now there are no fumes and no unwanted smells. Success!

Website Showcase: https://www.3dprintingleeds.co.uk/3d-showcase/
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