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.

#3dprintingnearme #3dprinting #3dprint #leeds #yorkshire #UK #FDM #PLA #industrialdesign #york #sheffield #manchester #harrogate #wakefield #rotherham #manufacture

3D SCAN 3D PRINT 3D CAD

3D Printing Leeds was requested to 3D Scan this small clip … but the question is always “what is best?”: 3D SCAN 3D PRINT 3D CAD

3D SCAN 3D PRINT 3D CAD

3D SCAN 3D PRINT 3D CAD

3D SCAN 3D PRINT 3D CAD

Turned out after discussion with the client and having them send some photos of their item next to a mm ruler, that it was far quicker and exacting to go straight to CAD.

3D SCAN 3D PRINT 3D CAD

3D SCAN 3D PRINT 3D CAD

Within a hour we had a 3D CAD prototype. In the next hour we had 3D Printed a proof in PLA which turned out to be perfect first-time 🙂

In these photos, RED is the original, GREY is our replica.

#3dprint #clip #leeds #medical #science #3dprinting #design #technology #business #leeds3d #3dleeds #yorkshire #B2B #3dscan #CAD #reverseengineering

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Revolutionising Industrial Product Design with FDM 3D Printing

Revolutionising Industrial Product Design with FDM 3D Printing
From Concept to Small Batch Production

Industrial Product Design: Innovation, agility, and efficient workflows

In the fast-paced world of industrial product design, staying ahead of the competition requires innovation, agility, and efficient workflows. Traditional manufacturing methods often pose limitations in terms of cost, time, and customisation. However, the advent of FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) 3D printing has revolutionised the landscape, offering exciting opportunities for proof of market prototyping and small batch production. In this article, we will take you on an exciting journey through a staged workflow, showcasing the seamless connection between industrial product design styling and FDM 3D printing.

Conceptualisation: Unleashing Creativity

The journey begins with the conceptualisation phase, where designers unleash their creativity to generate innovative ideas. Sketches, mood boards, and digital renderings play a pivotal role in visualising the product’s aesthetics and functionality. This stage sets the foundation for the subsequent steps, allowing designers to experiment and refine their concepts.
Images [below]: Designer’s sketchbook and digital renderings.

Images [above]: Designer working on a 3D Modelling software for producing 3D Print STL files.

3D Modelling: Transforming Ideas into Digital Reality

With the concept in hand, it’s time to translate it into a digital model. Using powerful CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, designers meticulously create a 3D model that accurately captures the desired form, features, and dimensions of the product. This step enables precise visualisation and serves as the basis for the subsequent 3D printing process.
Images [below]: Fabrication of 3D STL files and 3D Prints into Prototypes.

Optimisation for FDM Printing: Design for Success

Next, the 3D model is optimised for FDM printing. Designers take into account factors such as structural integrity, support structures, material usage, and printability. By leveraging the capabilities and limitations of FDM 3D printing, they ensure that the final product is manufacturable and retains the envisioned design aesthetics.
Images [below]: Models with optimised geometry for FDM printing.

Proof of Market Prototyping: Tangible Validation

Once the optimised 3D model is ready, it’s time to bring it to life through FDM 3D printing. The selected 3D printer converts the digital design into physical reality, layer by layer. The beauty of FDM technology lies in its ability to rapidly prototype complex geometries and iterate designs quickly. With the physical prototype in hand, designers can assess the product’s form, fit, and function, making informed refinements.
Image/Video [below]: 3D Printers in action and Building the Prototype.

Industrial Product Design Refinement and Iteration:
Continuous Improvement

Based on feedback from the proof of market prototype, designers refine and iterate the design further. This iterative process allows for continuous improvement and ensures that the final product meets the desired specifications. The flexibility of FDM 3D printing enables designers to make design changes swiftly, reducing time-to-market and maximising innovation potential. (Image: Designer holding the prototype and making notes)

Industrial Product Design for 3D Printing - Prototype Measuring and Adjustments for Refinement and Innovation samples.

Industrial Product Design for 3D Printing – Prototype Measuring and Adjustments for Refinement and Innovation samples.

Small Batch Production: Scaling Innovation

With the design refined and validated, it’s time to move towards small batch production. FDM 3D printing excels in low-volume manufacturing, enabling cost-effective production of customised products without the need for expensive tooling or molds. By leveraging the scalability of 3D printing technology, designers can cater to niche markets, create limited editions, or even offer personalised products.
Images [below] : Array of identical products produced through FDM 3D printing.

Conclusion:

The integration of industrial product design styling with FDM 3D printing has ushered in a new era of creativity, speed, and cost-efficiency. By following the staged workflow outlined above, designers can unleash their imagination, validate their ideas through proof of market prototyping, iterate designs, and seamlessly transition to small batch production. The possibilities are endless, and the benefits are substantial.

To delve deeper into the world of industrial product design and FDM 3D printing, check out this informative article on the role of 3D printing in enhancing manufacturing processes. For insights into the latest trends and innovations in the industry, explore this insightful report on the future of additive manufacturing.

  • Embrace the power of FDM 3D printing and witness the transformation of your product design ideas into reality.
  • With enhanced speed, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, this technology opens new doors for creativity, prototyping, and small batch production.
  • Revolutionise your product development process and stay ahead in the competitive market with FDM 3D printing.

Remember, the future of industrial product design lies in the synergy between innovation and technology. Embrace the possibilities of FDM 3D printing and unlock a world of endless opportunities for your business.

3D PRINTING IN LEEDS

PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

As Industrial designers we can Project Manage your idea by 3D Printing your Files or Designing bespoke, high-quality 3D Items to suit your needs at a cost-competitive rate.

  • Supply us with your existing STL CAD files for our Bureau Service to 3D Print in PLA plastic using the FDM or in ABS-like using the LCD Resin process.
  • Recreation of existing Objects is possible with aBudget to cover the many hours of Design required to reproduce and refine the CAD Files needed.
  • PLEASE NOTE: We only print in PLA, a thermoplastic.

Either UPLOAD your 3D files via our website or Contact our team to outline your requirements.

3D PRINTING IN LEEDS

  • We print with PLA Plastic Filament only.
  • Our minimum order is £75 ex.
  • We require a CAD file supplied by you, which we need to test first.
  • If you do not have a CAD file we charge £75ph to CAD one. Batch-runs are more economic.
  • Our maximum sizes: for FDM it is 300*300*300mm, for LCD RESIN it is 80*40*100mm

EMAIL US NOW with your Designs or CALL US on 0113 266 5146

3D PRINT LEEDS EXPERIENCE

With over 30 years’ experience working in engineering and industrial design, we are experts at what we do! We have created prototypes for gaming products, animation, medical simulations and specialised product development. 

Specialist parts, prototypes, models for product development: whatever your printing needs, we can help you discover the solution. Clients have used our services in the past to produce batch runs or one-off 3D prints and prototypes.

3D PRINT LEEDS – FDM or RESIN

  • FDM (Fused Deposition Layer) 3D printing using PLA, PETG Plastic.
  • LCD Resin Printing for high quality prototypes.

Both of these processes use the ALM (Additive Layer Manufacturing) process to create 3d Models from layers.

Need to contact our team for assistance?

Have your files and want a free quotation?


VISUALISING YOUR DESIGN

You may have an idea or description, a set of sketches, reference photos, or an existing item that is ready for modification or improvement. Perhaps you need a product reproduced because it is no longer available or economic to recreate in small quantities through traditional mass-production using injection molding, casting or manual fabrication.

Based on your design ideas, we will supply a brief – a plan on how we see the development of your needs – from that point to the final product. We currently only print in PLA to produce your initial prototypes which help lead you on to more detailed manufacturing.

3D Print Leeds staff have been involved in industrial product design, engineering and prototyping for 30 years. We are ready to support you through the entire 3D process from start to finish.

Tell us about your requirements





FROM DESIGN TO CAD MODELLING

Concepts at 3D Printing Leeds are pre-visualised using computer modelling to test the look, size, volume and construction aspects of your product. Our team will build your product virtually, calibrate its measurements and parts’ alignment, as well as its movement and connectivity.

3D Print Leeds

CAD modelling includes aesthetic aspects of colour, finish and texture.

These photos illustrate how CAD modelling can be used to create custom elements of a larger piece. This process might also be used to hone the aesthetic elements of individual pieces or to test the quality of a print prior to assembly.

When a product is for mass manufacture, we create technical documents, manuals and instructions in-house. At 3D Printing Leeds, we can also supply you with the branding and graphic design for your project as part of our outstanding service.

3D Print Leeds uses specialised software that processes the geometry of your product design to ensure that the overall process is economic. This processing considers the time, weight, strength and durability: every aspect is considered as part of our service.

Our CAD modelling process

 


FROM MODEL TO FINAL PRODUCT

At this stage, we fabricate a complete, tactile model for your project. You might require us to assemble a single model or multiple copies of a model – or something else!

Bringing together individual parts to form a complete 3D print.

3D Print Leeds can assemble your model, prototype or props using a range of materials. We offer more traditional materials (metal, wood, resin), as well as more pliable options (rubber, fabrics) depending on the desired function of your product.

Our highly-experienced technicians form all products in our own workshops. We consider fabrication a craft. Our aim is to ensure that your final model will be both practical and aesthetic.

Reach out to our team

 


FINISHING YOUR PRODUCT

Many of our clients want the full 3D service, from expert design all the way to complete fabrication.

We are also proud to offer a comprehensive range of finishing options. Although some clients use our services to develop prototypes, other clients reach out to us to help them turn their creative vision into a physical reality.

Finishing details may relate to the colouring or coating of your 3D print. They might involve adding electrical elements, fitting the product, adding further special effects or including graphic design elements. No detail is too small or too large for the attention of our team!

All products are delivered by Royal Mail UK and are insured, tracked and signed for in accordance with your needs.

How can we help?

 


3D Printing Leeds is a marketing name of the James Rothschild Partnership.
3dprintinglondon.uk 3dprintingsheffield.co.uk 3dprintingmanchester.co.uk
Providing 3D Printing Services for LONDON MANCHESTER and SHEFFIELD and beyond.

Contact us or Phone Us to chat through your requirements:

 

GAS Radiator Control Knob – FDM 3D Print in PLA

3D Printing Leeds often gets asked for very small projects which are not economic, but when it’s your wife how can you refuse?! Maybe this ready-made part will help others, so we will upload it to thingiverse and cults3d soon.

#3dprint #gas #leeds #3dprinting #design #technology #business

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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.

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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!

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3D Scanning Reverse Engineering

3D Scanning Reverse Engineering

3D Scanning Reverse Engineering is a great asset to design.
It enables complex shapes to be captured and worked on from other creative applications.

This process of reverse engineering not only empowers us to experience and learn quickly from complex shapes, but also to improve them far more quickly than ever before.

When you send us your item, we scan it into a file that you can use or we can progress the design into a CAD product design, styling and production.

There are many uses for 3D scanning:

  • reverse-engineering, whereby old or unavailable items can be recreated and improved
  • body scanning; for fashion, medical or costume
  • automotive; for new body panel modifications
  • archival; for museum display pieces or interactive representations
  • sculpture; for reproduction of original artworks
  • engineering & product design; to replace or improve parts
  • textiles; to recreate patterns, textures, prints, stamps and dies
  • conservation; recreating man-made and industrial artefacts and parts

Our team at 3D Printing Leeds have the skills and the tools to make your idea a reality, whether that requires 3D Scanning, 3D Photogrammetry or 3D CAD.

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