If you are new to 3D printing, it is understandable if you get overwhelmed by its vast possibilities and applications. Although 3D printing is simple yet complicated but getting started will be easier if you know the foundation of what makes a 3D printer works. A 3D printer, like any other machine, has many components and requires specific tools and parts to run smoothly.
If you want to get started with 3D printing, here is an awesome guide that provides essential tips and outlines the necessary tools. This article will help you confidently embark on this journey of 3D printing and ensure a successful start.
Tips to Know Before Getting Started with 3D Printing
As you begin your journey in 3D printing, here are some valuable tips you need to get the best out of this experience.
- Select a 3D Printer: the first step to getting started with 3D printing is getting a good 3D printer. When getting a 3D printer, you must consider several factors like budget, desired print quality and print volume. Research the different models available and compare their features and reviews. Ensure whatever 3D printer you purchase serves the purpose you got it for.
- Get the Right 3D Printer Filaments: filament is the material used for 3D printing. Getting the right filament is also important for getting your 3D printing right. There are factors to consider when selecting a filament for 3D printing, such as flexibility, heat resistance and durability.
The most common filament so far is the PLA; it is easy to use and versatile, as many printers are compatible with it and affordable. Depending on your project, PLA filament is a good starter for 3D printing. PET-G is another beginner-friendly material. However, it can be more technical than PLA.
- Get and Learn the Required Software: 3D printing requires a digital model; therefore, you will need to get and learn 3D modelling software. There are two important software for 3D printing: CAD (Computer Aided Design) and slicing software. Any CAD system can create a functional model, but you need CAD software if you want to create your own models and objects. You must also know how to export an STL file from your CAD software.
The second essential software is the Slicing software which translates the STL file into a language the printer can understand.
- You Need a Good Print Bed: Having a good print bed will help you build your first layer upon a solid foundation. Print beds can be made from various materials such as aluminium, plastic or glass.
Investing in a high-quality print bed will prevent issues such as layer adhesion, prints sticking down too hard, not retaining temperature and uneven bed levelling.
Many people recommend a glass print bed as it is easier to remove your prints when you are done, leaving a smooth finish on the bottom of the print.
Before you start printing, always ensure your print bed is levelled and clean it using isopropyl alcohol to remove any debris that could impact adhesion.
- Calibrate your 3D printer: it is important to calibrate your printer properly to optimise the performance of your 3D printer. By following the manufacturer’s instructions for calibration, you will achieve precise movements and accurate prints.
- Start Simple: to understand basic printing settings better and effectively troubleshoot issues, you need to start with simple prints. Like many activities, you need to understand some essential concepts before you can operate smoothly without issues.
It may take many trials and errors before you get that nice and perfect print, but once you have a hinge of it, you can move to more complex prints.
Essential Tools for 3D Printing
It would be best to have the right tools for the job to get optimal benefits from your 3D printer. From removing support materials to improving build plate adhesion, here is a list of essentials to have when getting a 3D printer.
- Glue Stick & Other Adhesives
To create great 3D prints, you need to build plate adhesion. Glues are important to get your prints to stick all you have to do is cover your print bed with soluble glue to improve adhesion.
- Print-Removal Blade or Spatula
It would help to have a print-removal blade to remove prints from the print bed easily. This tool is particularly used when an adhesive is used on the bed or a filament that sticks very well.
- Digital Caliper
This tool is a measuring scale with a digital display, and it is used for many things in 3D printing. Still, the most important is that it allows you to achieve accurate designs and perform dimensional tests on your printer. Callipers can also be used for checking filament measurements.
- Tweezers and Pliers
Tweezers and pliers come in handy when you are printing. They are great for removing hot items like a nozzle and picking out small parts like a screw from a V-slot extrusion. Pliers can be used for grabbing larger items, while tweezers are for smaller items or items in hard-to-reach spaces.
You can also remove support materials from a par, hold hot parts, strip wires and cut wires using pliers.
- Screwdrivers and Hex Keys
You probably already own a good selection of screwdrivers and hex keys. If you don’t have some, it would be wise to get some because you’ll need to periodically re-tighten your 3D printer’s screws and stepper motors. 3D printers are often assembled using hex keys, so getting a set of hex key screwdrivers and wrenches is wise.
- Soldering Iron
The soldering iron can bond wires together, which can be useful in 3D printing projects that use electronic components. It is also used for bonding and smoothing 3D printed models, like those printed on PLA or PETG.
- Masking Tape
You can help your 3D-printed object adhere to the print bed by adding masking tape to the print bed. Besides making removing the finished print easier, it also protects the print bed from scratches.
- Magnalube and Unilube
You will need to lubricate the X and Y axis of your 3D printer sometimes to ensure they keep operating smoothly. Unilube is the best lubricant as it only takes a little drop to resolve any issue.
Other tools you can consider getting are Sandpaper, wire cutter, paper towel, spatula, air purifier, utility knife, flashlight, rotary tools, zip ties, and painter’s tape.