When preparing the G-code to obtain a high-quality result, it is worth paying attention not only to correct design of the 3D model, but also on the correct location of the part on the 3D printer platform. Preparing a three-dimensional model for 3D printing is the transformation of information from an STL file into commands, following which a 3D printer produces a product, the aggregate of which is called a G-code. The resulting G-code is transmitted to the 3D printer via a flash memory or via a USB cable. In the process of preparing and adjusting the additive machine, calibration, preheating of the working bodies, the choice of the model material and the setting of the parameters of the equipment operation modes depending on it are performed. On professional grade devices, this step can be combined with the slicing process. After all the preparatory operations have been completed, the printing process starts, that is, layer-by-layer combining of materials. Its duration depends on the type of technology and the selected parameters of accuracy and quality of the part. The created part, if necessary, is subjected to additional technological influences: removal of supporting supports, chemical or heat treatment, finishing of working surfaces.

At the final stage of production, the quality control of the part is carried out, including checking the compliance with the regulatory requirements of geometric dimensions, indicators of physical and mechanical properties and other parameters that affect the consumer properties of the product. As a rule, the indicators of physical and mechanical properties just depend on the location of the part on the platform. Taken together, we draw attention to the fact that the location of the part in the area of ​​the 3D printer can also be considered as an opportunity to make a product in one run, without dividing the model into components... For example, very often by rotating the model in space by a few degrees, we can fit it into the print area.

Let's consider several main typical features of the location of a part in the working area of ​​a 3D printer.

  1. From the point of view of the strength of the product at the exit.
  2. In terms of surface quality.
  3. From the point of view of the supporting material.
  4. In terms of solid part.

Let's go back to the Netfabb program (download for PC or download for mac). Let's consider the main functions of this program from the point of view of rotation and arrangement of parts in space. How to load a model into the program and check the file for printability shown in the intervening article.

Screenshot of 2018-05-29 at 6.36.45.png

In the figure, number 1 indicates a slider with which you can move your model in space by holding the left mouse button. Under the number 2, the coordinate axes are marked, along which you can compare the position of your 3D model in space. Note that the plane of the 3D printer platform is marked in blue and is always parallel to the XY plane. It should be noted that it is not necessary to join the model to the platform plane, the main thing is that the bottom layer of the model is parallel to the platform plane. Under the number 3 is a button, by clicking on which you will get into the function of rotation of the part.

Screenshot of 2018-05-29 at 6.46.55.png

As you can see, our model can be rotated about any axis and at any angle.

In frequent cases, defining the rotation parametrically can be very problematic. To do this, NetFabb provides the “Align Parts” function, by clicking on which (number 4 in the figure) we will get to the menu for selecting the plane on which the future part needs to be “put”.

Screenshot of 2018-05-29 at 6.50.24.png

In the menu, select the plane that needs to be paralleled with the printer platform, in my case it is the plane at number 5 in the picture, and click the "apply" button (in the picture at number 6)

Screenshot of 2018-05-29 at 6.55.09.png

As you can see, the detail turned around and took the position I needed in space.

Well, we figured out the theory, now let's see how it works in practice

1. Durability of the product depending on the location of the part on the 3D printer table.

Let's consider a three-dimensional model of a corner. Suppose that the corner is created to receive a load that unbends the corner, as shown in the figure below.

Consider two options for the logical location of this corner on the table.

So:

And so:

From an article about study of the loading of parts after 3D printing we already know that the strength characteristics of products when loaded along the laying of layers are much higher than when loaded against the laying of layers. Accordingly, it is necessary to place the part on the table in such a way that in places of dangerous sections the load goes exactly along the laying of the layers. That is, the second arrangement on the table described in this article is correct! In the case of the first location option, the risk of a broken product increases at the site of a dangerous section, at the junction of the zones marked in blue and green.

2. Surface quality depending on the location of the part on the 3D printer table.

For an illustrative example, consider another corner with a characteristic cylindrical groove.

The quality of the resulting groove will depend on the location of the part on the table of the 3D printer. Consider the two layout options again.

We see in the first version we got a regular cylindrical groove, in turn, in the second version, due to technological layering, stepwise transitions are observed, there is no ideal circle. This groove was designed for a reason, something will be inserted there, so such moments must be taken into account!

3. The amount of supporting material and, as a consequence, the final cost, depending on the location of the part on the 3D printer table.

The picture shows two locations in the print area of ​​the same model. From support articles we know that it is necessary to build a supporting material under the hinged elements. The picture from is shown in dark brown.

Support is an additional consumption of material. Since the amount of material directly affects the cost of 3D printing, there will also be differences. A part with supports will cost 143 rubles, and a “lying” part without supports will cost 135 rubles. You decide for yourself how to print correctly. We advise the correct location, if you do not need to ensure the strength described in the first paragraph or the quality of the surface in the second.

4. If the part is to be solid-printed.

If a part in overall dimensions is larger than the printable area, you should not immediately conclude that it needs to be broken into parts.

At first glance, it seems that the print area does not fit, but you should rotate it 45 degrees about the Z axis and voila! I draw your attention to the fact that the rotation can be carried out not only along the Z axis, but also relative to other axes.

At the same time, it should be understood that the amount of the supporting material will become larger, while in a number of tasks the one-piece printed part is more important than the cost spent on the supporting material.