3D Product 3D Printing Technologies 2

Question 1

What is Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) used for in product development?

Accepted Answer

Fusing metal powder with a laser to create fully dense metal parts used in aerospace and medical devices

Answer

Coating plastic prints with a metallic surface finish

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An FDM process that uses metal-filled filament

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A CNC milling process guided by 3D models

Question 2

What is 'slicing software' in the 3D printing workflow?

Accepted Answer

Software that converts a 3D model into printer instructions (G-code) by slicing it into layers

Answer

A tool for cutting a 3D model into multiple printable parts

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Software for rendering photorealistic product images

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A CAD tool for splitting complex assemblies

Question 3

What is 'warping' in FDM 3D printing and how is it prevented?

Accepted Answer

Warping is when corners lift from the build plate due to cooling shrinkage; it is prevented with a heated bed and proper bed adhesion

Answer

Warping refers to distorted UV maps on a printed texture

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Warping is overextrusion caused by incorrect filament diameter settings

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Warping is a layer shifting error caused by loose drive belts

Question 4

What does 'overhanging geometry' mean in the context of 3D printing design for manufacturability?

Accepted Answer

Surfaces that extend outward at angles greater than about 45 degrees from vertical, requiring support structures or redesign

Answer

Geometry that extends outside the printer's build volume

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A model that is too heavy for the print plate

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Layers that are printed too thin to adhere properly

Question 5

What is the purpose of a 'raft' in 3D printing?

Accepted Answer

A flat, horizontal structure printed beneath the object to improve bed adhesion and reduce warping

Answer

A type of grid infill pattern for flexible prints

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A support structure for bridging long horizontal gaps

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A brim around the base of a model for adhesion

Question 6

What is 'Z-offset' calibration in FDM 3D printing?

Accepted Answer

Adjusting the nozzle's distance from the build plate to ensure the first layer is properly squished for adhesion

Answer

Setting the maximum print height for a given model

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Calibrating the printer's Z-axis motor current

Answer

Adjusting the layer thickness in slicer software