FILE PREPARATION

please read the instruction carefully

filesize

Files with a maximum size of 25 MB can be uploaded. Whether in the field of gaming or inside engineering CAD software systems: every 3D software offers possibilities of 3D volume and mesh optimization in order to optimize the filesize for 3D printing.

solid & non-manifold

■ The file should be non-manifold. Volumes that, during the construction process, consist of several single parts but are to be printed as one combined 3D volume, must first be joined with a function such as "boolean junction / join" a.m.o., partitions must be removed, seams must be closed.

■ On the construction plane inside the 3d application: parts to be printed separately should be arranged in a way to not overlap with each other. They should be arranged with some distance to each other on the construction plane.

■ 3D printing softwares do not open 3D volumes with naked edges. The volume should be "waterproof".
Imagine the surface of a CAD construction as skin and fill it with water: would water leak? = the edges and corners of all volumes must be checked, all surfaces should be seamlessly connected to build a single volume.

non-manifold - waterproof/solid

overhang

support material overhang - custom support structure

support material overhang - soluble


A 3D Printer can´t print into open space. The printable maximum angle of overhang is 45°.

overhang
FDM PROCESS

Soluble
During the FDM printing process, overhang over 45 ° can be printed using a water-soluble support structure. The printed volume together with the water-soluble supporting structure must soak in water for at least six hours, ideally 24 hours. Only then the support material is softened and can be removed.
The cost of printing is the sum of the cost of construction material and support material.

Custom support
The support structure for overhang is build with solid material and must be removed manually.

overhang
DLP PROCESS

During the DLP printing process, a volume is created through the projection of a layer by a laser into a UV-sensitive liquid. The support-material and the 3D volume are printed as one and of the same material. The support material must be removed manually.