You’re looking to improve your 3D printing performance. What are the most important evaluation methods?

2 Dimensional Accuracy

Another important evaluation method is to measure the dimensional accuracy of your prints. This means how closely your prints match the intended dimensions of the models. Dimensional accuracy can be affected by factors such as shrinkage, expansion, extrusion, or calibration. To measure the dimensional accuracy of your prints, you can use tools such as calipers, rulers, or gauges, and compare the measurements to the expected values. You can also print test objects such as cubes, cylinders, or spheres, and check their dimensions and shapes. Dimensional accuracy can help you improve the fit and functionality of your prints, especially for parts that need to be assembled or interfaced.

3 Surface Roughness

Surface roughness is another evaluation method that can help you improve your 3D printing performance. Surface roughness refers to the texture and smoothness of your prints, which can affect their appearance and feel. Surface roughness can be influenced by factors such as layer height, nozzle size, print speed, or infill. To measure the surface roughness of your prints, you can use tools such as profilometers, scanners, or microscopes, or you can use your own eyes and touch. You can also print test objects such as pyramids, cones, or spheres, and check their surface quality. Surface roughness can help you optimize your prints for aesthetics and comfort.

4 Strength and Durability

Strength and durability are also important evaluation methods that can help you improve your 3D printing performance. Strength and durability refer to how well your prints can withstand stress, strain, or wear and tear. Strength and durability can be affected by factors such as material, orientation, infill, or cooling. To measure the strength and durability of your prints, you can use tools such as tensile testers, compression testers, or impact testers, or you can perform your own experiments and tests. You can also print test objects such as hooks, levers, or gears, and check their performance and resistance. Strength and durability can help you optimize your prints for functionality and reliability.

5 Print Time and Cost

Print time and cost are also important evaluation methods that can help you improve your 3D printing performance. Print time and cost refer to how long and how much it takes to print your models. Print time and cost can be affected by factors such as size, resolution, infill, or supports. To measure the print time and cost of your prints, you can use tools such as slicers, calculators, or timers, or you can track your own data and records. You can also print test objects such as cubes, cylinders, or spheres, and check their time and cost. Print time and cost can help you optimize your prints for efficiency and affordability.