Print Processing Tech Tips: Common Model Errors

 

Here at Imagine That 3D we take pride providing solutions to you. Our Print Processing Tech Tips series focuses on best practices for processing procedures so you’re guaranteed the perfect print every time.

 

Today we’re focusing on common model errors.

 

Problem

 

There are a variety of good modeling programs that work for 3D printing. The key is to have a fully close, or watertight model to be successful, otherwise, model errors can contribute to the failure of a print.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Failed Print: Model errors contribute to the failure of this print.

For example, if you’re creating a model using several different solid models that intersect one another, this can cause some issues with the slicing software.

 

Solution

 

To fix this, a model repair is necessary. By importing the STL file into Netfabb and using the file repair features, we can create one solid file that does not have intersecting surfaces.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed Print: Smooth layers are essential to a successful print.

This will eliminate the problem and make the file printable. It also decreases print time by eliminating the internal structure of the separate models.

 

These are unnecessary when the model is printed with infill material.

 

Other Notes

 

There are several STL repair software packages available:

• NetFabb

• Materialize Magics

• MeshMixer

• Make Printable

 

For more helpful hints on how to prevent common model errors, check out the full case study.