Print Terminology
Slicer/Slicing Software
A slicer / slicing software is used to convert 3D models into executable instructions for 3D Printers - gcode In this software print settings can be adjusted including; layer height, infill, supports, build plate adhesion, and more advanced settings including print speeds, flow rates, and temperature settings, among others.
Slicing software is responsible for translating 3-dimensional digital objects into a stack of cross-sections that will be successively deposited, cured or fused to form physical objects.
Orientation
Orientation refers to the position of a model in 3D space.
When slicing a model, the orientation of a model will greatly impact the following;
Surface Finish
Strength
Dimensional Accuracy
Required Supports
The best orientation for a print will vary between printing technologies
The dFab team will always try to optimise the orientation of a part. If you would like a specific orientation, include a screenshot of the surface you would like to keep free from supports. Alternatively, you may provide a sliced file in the desired orientation
Build Dimensions
Build Volume is the maximum print capacity in the x, y and x axis. No model can exceed the build volume in any direction
Build Area refers to the maximum print capacity in the x and y axis.
dFab recommends keeping models to ≤80% of a printer's build volume to reduce the likelihood of a print error occurring.
Scale
Scale refers to the dimensional relationship between a digital file and the printed model
dFab will not scale models up or down.
Submissions to the dFab bureau must always be at 1:1 scale of the desired print dimensions.
Layer Height / Layer Thickness
Refers to the thickness of each layer of a 3D print. A lower layer height will result in a print with less noticeable layer lines and a more precise outcome. A thicker/larger layer height will result in a less precise outcome with improved mechanical properties.
Low layer height (higher resolution) prints take significantly longer to print and are only necessary for highly complex geometries or final models.
Infill
Infill is the internal structure of a 3D print. The infill pattern and density vary between printing technologies.
Overhang
An overhang occurs when part of a model’s geometry on a newly printed layer is no longer fully supported by the layer below. Depending on the angle of the overhang, support structures may be required. Overhangs requiring support can be avoided by splitting or reorientating the model.
Helpers
Supports / Support Structures
Supports are additional structures generated by slicing software to assist in the printing of an object with overhangs.
This excess material is usually easy to remove, and does not affect a model structurally but may, however, leave small surface artefacts once removed.
Please be aware, if a model contains small/delicate sections it becomes very difficult to remove support material without damaging the model in the process.
Build plate Adhesion
Build plate adhesion refers to the helpers which can be used to improve contact between your model and the build plate surface. Poor adhesion often occurs when there is only a small surface area of your model in contact with the build plate.
Post-Processing
Post-processing refers to any further processing of prints, this can include;
Support Removal
Cold Welding
Sanding / Wet Sanding
Vapour Smoothing
Filling
Polishing
Priming and Painting
These processes are often used to remove print artefacts (layer lines, support structure interfaces, support nibs etc and modify surface features
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