3D Print File Preparation
To take advantage of the 3D printing revolution, all you need is a properly prepared digital file. 3D printers use specially prepared files, usually in STL format, which we can prepare for you. We can do this in a number of ways, including:
Use a 3D laser scanner to scan your object and build the STL file based on scan data
Use your line drawings, or hand sketches to construct a 3D cad model of your design and export a printable STL file
If you have a CAD model in a different format than STL, we can convert your file to a 3D-printable STL format. We can perform many different file conversions.
We can convert many other 3D file formats into STL files optimized for 3D printing[/caption]
Considerations when preparing 3D print files
3D Model Repair: Frequently 3D models exported from CAD software to STL format contain open surfaces or other characteristics that make them unsuitable for 3D printing. We can repair any of these problems.
Wall thickness: If CAD models that are created for manufacturing are scaled down in size, the wall thicknesses of the model can be too thin for 3D printing. The minimum recommended wall thickness is .030″ for handling strength. We can revise your model so that it has the optimal wall thickness appropriate for the application.
Part Mating Tolerances: For parts that need to fit together, we can design your files so that they have the desired fit.
Scale: In order for your part to print at the correct size, the scale needs to be adjusted properly. Most 3D printers need the file to be in mm or inches.
How to get started 3d printing
Once you have your digital 3D print file, you can:
Print it yourself using your own 3D printer
Utilize an online “self serve” 3D print service such as Shapeways.com
Let us take care of everything for you, since we have our own 3D printers for your convenience.
