Here's how you can deliver high-quality work in 3D Printing despite time constraints.

If you are designing something with thinner walls, keep in mind your extruder diameter. If you keep your wall thickness an even multiple of your diameter, you can set your settings to have no infill on those walls. Doing this can decrease print time by using walls instead of the high-movement required by infill patterns. Adding an extra wall count can decrease print times by hours depending on the design and size.

Optimizing designs is crucial for efficiency and quality. Think of it like refining a recipe – the better the recipe, the better the outcome. Use design software to simplify and streamline models, reducing print time and potential errors. For example, adding support structures strategically can prevent print failures. This ensures that even under time pressure, the designs are robust and print-ready.

If you do not need any long term functionality in your print, PLA is a great way to get a fast/ low quality print for a prototype. It is also available in a high speed version to reach faster print times. Once you are happy with a design, you can increase the quality of the part through layer heights and use a stronger filament. It is always important to think about how your part will be used to decide if you need rigidity over flexibility.

Selecting the right materials is like choosing the best ingredients for a dish. Different materials have different properties and print times. For instance, PLA is easy to print and quick to cool, making it ideal for rapid prototyping. On the other hand, ABS is more durable but requires longer print times and higher temperatures. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the best material for the task, ensuring timely completion.

The most important part of 3D printing is a level build plate. While newer printers can compensate for irregularities in the print bed, it is still best to get your build plate as flat as possible. I go over the top with an indicator across the entire bed and get it within +/- .002". Stick with the same filament manufacturer and type to ensure reliability. Filaments from different manufacturers may require adjustments to your settings, which can lead to down time and delays.

Optimizing the printer is like tuning a musical instrument – it needs to be in perfect condition to produce the best results. Regular maintenance, calibration, and firmware updates are essential. For example, ensuring the print bed is level and the nozzle is clean can prevent print failures and improve quality. This proactive approach ensures that the printer performs optimally, even under tight deadlines.

Using presets can save valuable time. Think of it like using a pre-set mode on a camera – it simplifies the process and ensures consistent results. Most 3D printers come with pre-configured settings for different materials and print types. For example, using a high-quality preset for detailed prints can ensure the best results without manual adjustments. This helps in maintaining quality while saving time.

Always check on your print the first layer or two to make sure you have proper bed adhesion. Some printers use AI to monitor layers for "spaghetti" or strands of filament that aren't where they are supposed to be. If your printer doesn't have this feature, you can always set up a camera to monitor remotely. I added a Blink camera to my printer and even used the printer to print the bracket for it. This was a low cost option to monitor prints from my phone.

Monitoring progress is like keeping an eye on a cooking timer – it ensures everything is on track. Use software tools to monitor the print process and receive alerts for any issues. For example, some printers have built-in cameras and sensors that can detect print failures early. This allows for quick intervention and ensures that the final product meets quality standards.

Smart post-processing is essential for high-quality results. Think of it like the finishing touches on a painting – it enhances the final product. Techniques like sanding, polishing, and painting can improve the appearance and functionality of 3D printed objects. For example, using a heat gun to smooth out rough edges can make a significant difference. This ensures that the final product is polished and professional.

Finally, consider other factors like time management and contingency planning. Just as you would have a backup plan for a critical project, have contingency plans for 3D printing tasks. For instance, keep backup printers ready and have alternative materials on hand. This proactive approach helps in handling unexpected issues and ensures deadlines are met.