You're considering a 3D printing investment. What are the top tools you need to get started?

Si estás pensando en invertir en manufactura aditiva, es claro que eres una persona de muchas ideas, sin embargo, el mejor consejo que podría ofrecer es pensar en el principio de Pareto, es decir, enfócate en el 20% de ideas/proyectos con el mayor potencial para generar el 80% de los resultados que tengan el mayor impacto en tus objetivos y métricas clave. Al tener esta claridad, es más fácil ahora encontrar la tecnología y hardware de impresión 3D que encaja perfectamente con éstas necesidades y con tu presupuesto. En general, una impresora 3D profesional de fabricación por filamento fundido que pueda alcanzar hasta 300 C en su hotend, te abrirá una amplia gama de tecnopolímeros altamente versátiles y será relativamente fácil de dominar.

When considering the segment for your 3D printer investment, think about the industry or application you want to focus on. Whether it’s prototyping, healthcare, education, or consumer goods, each segment has unique requirements. 3D printer as the foundational tool. Follow it up with quality filament, precision leveling tools, accurate calipers, a spatula for print removal, and efficient slicer software.

Im Vorfeld sollte die Frage beantwortet werden, ob es wirklich ein "eigener" 3D-Drucker sein muss. Es gibt mittlerweile einige richtig gute Dienstleister. Also eine klassische "make-or-buy"-Frage die umso wichtiger wird, je gr??er/teurer die potentielle Anschaffung ist. Da es viele Gründe für eine Investition gibt, sollte für die konkrete Anschaffung dann geprüft werden, welche Anforderungen (z.B. Gr??e, Qualit?t, Eigenschaften, etc.) an die zukünftigen Bauteile gestellt werden und welche Losgr??en verarbeitet werden sollen. Daraus folgen weitere Rahmenbedingungen wie Platzbedarf oder auch die Raumbeschaffenheit (z.B. Fundament, Klimatisierung, Medienversorgung, etc.), die wiederum weiteres Budget notwendig machen, das geplant werden muss.

The world of 3D printing is vast, with a range of technologies and significant price variations within each type. For those just starting out, my recommendation is: begin with an affordable but decent FDM printer. By "decent" I mean a printer equipped with an automatic leveling system to ensure your initial printing experience isn't ruined by frustration. One of the key advantages of FDM technology is its cleanliness and affordability. It's also the most explicit in terms of understanding the layer-by-layer production process, often just by observation and intuition. This approach can build confidence and provide a strong foundation for exploring more advanced 3D printing technologies in the future.

Top tools needed for starting a 3D printing investment: 3D Printer Filament Slicing Software Computer or Laptop Calipers or Measuring Tools Safety Equipment Leveling Tools Tools for Print Removal Post-Processing Tools Storage and Organization Solutions

Incorporating a 3D scanner into your toolkit is a valuable consideration. This device can capture the shape and dimensions of objects, proving useful for replicating, modifying, or digitizing physical collections. With options like laser, structured light, or photogrammetry, 3D scanners offer versatility. The choice between standalone devices, attachments, or mobile app solutions depends on your specific needs and preferences.

The market is flooded with options, with a wide range of prices. However, when it comes to 3D scanners, opting for the cheapest models often isn't the best choice. Low-cost and even entry-level scanners from certain manufacturers frequently fail to deliver the minimum results and resolution necessary for the scanning process to be meaningful, unless you only need a more sophisticated way of taking measurements without a high demand for precision. Invest in a quality 3D scanning system only when there's a clear potential for profitability. Quality in 3D scanning is crucial, especially for professional or industrial applications where accuracy is key.

A 3D scanner digitizes physical objects into 3D models, crucial for replicating or modifying items, or creating digital archives. Types include laser scanners (high precision), structured light scanners (balance accuracy and speed), and photogrammetry (uses photos, cost-effective but less precise). You can choose between standalone devices for greater accuracy or smartphone attachments/apps for convenience. Select based on your precision needs, budget, and usage to enhance your 3D printing capabilities.

A 3D scanner is not an essential piece of kit if you plan to 3D print parts. It is only required if you have reverse engineering jobs to perform, which means that you want to replicate parts for which the original CAD file does not exist.

Un buen escaner 3d permitirá atender de manera rápida el mercado de el remplazo de refacciones. Le permitirá acelerar el proceso de modelación 3d y validación de la definición del modelo generado vs la pieza real, lo cual es crítico para un buen reemplazo de piezas existentes.

Not all softwares are compatible with Mac computers, consider Autodesk Fusion360 as a beginner friendly platform that allows cloud based storage of designs and expansion into CAM and generative design and works on Windows and Mac. Consider future engineering jobs which may prefer experience in Solidworks and that you can obtain a certification of your acquired design skills. Tinkercad can offer a novice user an easy way to combine primitive geometries to form a first version simple prototype but other softwares may allow more complex designs with a small learning curve. Reverse engineering is a great way to learn CAD whatever tool you choose.

Un buen software de dise?o es fundamental para poder brindar un servicio completo para clientes que solo llegan con una idea. Solidworks es una de las opciones más utilizada en la industria, pero hay muchas opciones disponibles. Un punto importante a considerar es cual software utilizan sus clientes principales. La compatibilidad es importante.

Incorporating 3D modeling software into your setup is crucial. This type of program allows you to create, edit, and manipulate 3D models on your computer. Whether designing objects from scratch or modifying existing models, there's a range of options available, from free and open-source to professional and expensive. Notable 3D modeling software includes Blender, SketchUp, Tinkercad, Fusion 360, and SolidWorks. Choosing the right software depends on your needs and level of expertise.

Solid modelers (mainly) and assembly "builders" : If you're after a functional design with engineering intent (not mainly artistic purposes), examples: Autodesk Fusion (by far my favorite), SolidWorks (most common in industry, expensive), Autodesk Inventor (also very common in industry Fusion's older brother). 3d sculpting software products: think video game characters and objects, examples Blender (free open source and used in industry, don't look further), Autodesk Maya, Autodesk 3DS max) Surface modeler : Used for complex surface creation purposes range from animation/rendering (architectural pieces, etc ) to manufacturing (car body, ships hull, plane body, etc.) Examples (Rhino3D, Autodesk Alias).

3D CAD tools are an absolute necessity for those who want to work on 3D printing. I have personally find solidworks more handy but user can also use other tools like NX, SolidEdge, CREO or Autodesk tools

These software all have access to more advanced settings that are nice to know when you are troubleshooting print failures. Simplify3d website has a great picture library of these with common root causes identified. Facebook groups are also readily willing to offer opinions on why your print failed. Cura is my preference for a non-Prusa printer but they all do similar things and take some user input of machine material and quality and output the print file, and estimates of time and amount of material. Don't forget to make sure you've got enough.

Slicers are super important. Each have their own advantages and disadvantages, but they are the way you can "speak" to your 3d printer. They are tool that makes 3d printers truly digital manufacturing. It's important to learn how to use them properly as well!

Egal mit welcher Slicing-Software Sie beginnen, stellen Sie sich auf einen l?ngeren Lernprozess ein. Alle üblichen Slicer sind ?hnlich aufgebaut und verwenden eine Vielzahl von Parametern, die Sie einstellen und damit den Druck ma?geblich beeinflussen k?nnen. Wir sprechen hier von ca. 200 Parametern, wie Filamentflu?, Temperaturen, Füllgrade und Füllungsstrukturen, Beeinflussung der Festigkeit, Layerhaftung, Oberfl?chengüte. Dazu ist oft noch die Ausrichtung des Bauteils auf der Grundplatte entscheidend für die Festigkeit. Erfahrung und intensives Probieren der verschiedenen Einstellungen ist der Schlüssel zum Erfolg im Arbeiten mit Slicing-Software.

Slicing software is an important part, and very often, it is part of the package offered with the printer. You can also opt for paid slicers if you are a power user.

Cura and PrusaSlicer are both user-friendly software that cater to both beginners and experienced users. They offer a wide range of features and settings that allow users to customize their slicing profiles and achieve optimal results. Additionally, PrusaSlicer is open-source, providing users with the ability to modify and customize the software to their specific needs.

The Benchy Boat is an excellent tool for evaluating the performance of a 3D printer. By printing a single boat, one can gain valuable insights into the printer's tuning and identify areas for improvement.

Pasos para la calibración: Deposición adecuada de la primera capa: Si la boquilla se coloca demasiado cerca o lejos de la cama de impresión, puede afectar la calidad de la impresión. Calibración de los ejes X, Y y Z: Esto se hace ajustando el desplazamiento Z y utilizando los calibres para medir la distancia real que se mueve cada eje. Calibración del extrusor: Esto asegura que la cantidad correcta de filamento se está extruyendo3. Pruebas de impresión: Modelos como el 3DBenchy son útiles para calibrar la impresora 3D.

Proper maintenance is key to keeping your 3D printer running smoothly. A maintenance kit typically includes essential tools such as tweezers, pliers, cleaning brushes, lubricants, and spare parts like nozzles and bed leveling tools. Regular maintenance tasks include cleaning the print bed, unclogging the nozzle, lubricating moving parts, and calibrating the printer to ensure optimal performance and print quality. Investing in a maintenance kit will help prolong the lifespan of your printer and minimize downtime due to unexpected issues.

One of the most important things you can do is to prevent problems. Keep the PLA clean and dry. Keep your 3D printer clean. Pay attention to which moving parts tend to come loose from using the printer, and calibrate before each long print. It never hurts to have spare parts on hand, but it is cheaper to keep the machine in shape than to keep replacing parts.

Having spare parts on hand can be very useful, as printers usually don't give much warning when something goes wrong, also having plenty of different sizes of Allen wrenches will come in handy for repairs, a good set of pliers is crucial as well for cutting filament, clearing clogs and removing support materials

Consider your end to end workflow before choosing a printer and choose one that fits the needs (general functional requirements:: specific functional req. E.g. surface finish, mechanical durability and robustness, topology optimization, etc.) Most technology in the space has complimentary toolkits but some more than others. Design software is fairly agnostic but should be heavily considered depending on the intent and intricacies of AM and technology chosen and use of it. FE solvers also as not all are made the same nor bodes well across all AM technologies.

Embarking on 3D printing requires essential tools. Choose a suitable 3D printer and filament (PLA, ABS, PETG, etc). Ensure a reliable build surface and use calipers for precise measurements. Employ 3D modeling software for design, and slicing software for converting models to G-codes. Essential tools include print removal and leveling tools, storage solutions for filament, safety gear, and a basic toolbox. Explore potential upgrades and gather learning resources for troubleshooting. Adhere to safety guidelines for a successful 3D printing experience.

Filament storage can significantly impact your part quality in terms of dimensional accuracy, visual quality, strength and defects. Especially as you branch out from PLA and ABS, moisture can become increasingly problematic. I have used industrial dryers for work and at home I use a dehydrator to dry my filament before printing. For long prints, it can also be beneficial to use a dry storage box like an airtight box with desiccant so that the material stays dry throughout the print.

Nesting and support are other key elements to take into account. Commercial software can perform these tasks but there are a lot of variations from one brand to another. Most of the time, an optimised nesting or an optimised support structure will mean a faster and cheaper print.

You should buy a printer for you needs. If you have physical products you want to prototype before traditional manufacturing you have to decide what you want to test. If functonality, you should be good with a PLA printer. If your product has design and have to be very prcise: consider resin or sintering printers. If you want to manifacture something yourslef go with sintering. There you get very precise models with several materials including metals.