3D Printing & Maker Spaces Flashcards

Which slicing parameter most directly controls the structural strength of a 3D-printed part along the Z-axis?

Answer: Layer height

Smaller layer heights create more bonding surface between layers, increasing Z-axis tensile strength.

A student's FDM print has stringing between features. Which slicer setting change is most likely to fix this?

Answer: Increase retraction distance

Increasing retraction distance pulls filament back into the nozzle during travel moves, reducing ooze and stringing.

In a maker space safety protocol, which personal protective equipment (PPE) is most appropriate when sanding resin SLA prints?

Answer: Nitrile gloves and a dust/respirator mask

Uncured resin particles released during sanding are skin sensitizers and respiratory hazards, requiring gloves and a respirator.

Which 3D printing technology uses a UV-curable liquid resin selectively solidified by a light source?

Answer: Stereolithography (SLA)

Stereolithography (SLA) cures liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer using a UV laser or light source.

An educator wants students to practice iterative design. Which maker space workflow best supports this?

Answer: Design, print, test, and redesign in rapid cycles

Iterative design cycles (design-print-test-redesign) teach engineering practice and reinforce the design process standard.

What does 'infill pattern' refer to in FDM slicing software?

Answer: The internal geometric structure that fills the inside of a printed object

Infill pattern describes the internal geometry (e.g., grid, honeycomb, gyroid) used to fill the solid interior of a print for strength and material efficiency.

Which material property makes PLA the most common choice for classroom 3D printing compared to ABS?

Answer: Lower printing temperature and minimal warping

PLA prints at lower temperatures (~200°C vs ~240°C for ABS) and requires no heated enclosure, making it safer and more reliable in classrooms.