3d-printing

name	3d-printing
description	Additive manufacturing and 3D printing
license	MIT
metadata	{"audience":"makers","category":"engineering"}

What I do

• Design 3D models for printing
• Select appropriate printing technologies
• Optimize prints for material and strength
• Troubleshoot printing issues
• Post-process printed parts
• Configure slicer settings

When to use me

When creating physical prototypes, custom parts, or manufacturing with additive technologies.

Key Concepts

Printing Technologies

FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling):
- Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, Nylon
- Low cost, accessible
- Good for prototypes

SLA (Stereolithography):
- Materials: UV resin
- High resolution, smooth finish
- Ideal for detailed parts

SLS (Selective Laser Sintering):
- Materials: Nylon, TPU powder
- Strong, functional parts
- No support structures needed

Metal 3D Printing:
- DMLS, SLM
- Aerospace, medical applications
- High cost, high performance

Design Guidelines

Wall Thickness: Minimum 0.8mm (FDM)
Overhangs: Limit to 45° or use supports
Tolerances: 0.3-0.5mm for fits
Orientation: Strength varies by axis
Infill: 20-100% depending on use

Slicer Settings

# Key parameters
layer_height: 0.12-0.28mm
print_speed: 40-80mm/s
temperature: 200-260°C (PLA/ABS)
bed_temperature: 60-110°C
retraction: 4-8mm distance

Troubleshooting

Layer separation: Increase temperature
Stringing: Adjust retraction
Warping: Use glue stick, heated bed
Clogging: Clean nozzle, reduce temp
Poor adhesion: Level bed, clean surface

File Formats

• STL: Standard for 3D printing
• OBJ: With textures
• AMF: With material info
• G-code: Printer instructions

Post-Processing

• Sanding and smoothing
• Painting and finishing
• Acetone smoothing (ABS)
• Epoxy coating
• Support removal