Designing 3D Metal Models effectively: 5 Tips to Keep in Mind

 

One of the best materials to use today in 3D printing is metal due to its durability and sheen. However, Ferndale 3D printing in metal has its own set of considerations since it uses a material that is quite different from plastic. In addition, it has additional processes and techniques used in order to create an accurate final product. To make the most out of this service, there are a few tips you need to follow when designing the 3D model.

Give Support in the Green State

There will be a time in the process when the 3D model enters a “green” state where it is quite weak and fragile. Being made out of steel dust glued together, the finished product will have the consistency of wet sand. Since the model is quite weak, it cannot be molded further or even held. Thus, it is best that you design a simple support model for the finished product. Using simple geometric shapes, you can have the printer service use this support to give your 3D model enough time to harden for detailing.

Set the Details Aside

Metal 3D printing is quite unique in the sense that it involves more processes than normal. The first process would involve laying out the base shape which is then followed by another process which fills in the details of the model. To make it easier for the 3D printing services, it is a good idea that you submit two different designs for your model, one for its base shape and the other for its details. This way, they will know which way to go first and come up with a model that is 100% accurate to your design.

Mind the Edges

Unless the model is a 3D replication of a sword or any sharp object, it is best that you refrain from using too many knife edges in your design. Keep in mind that metal is quite hard. Thus, having too many sharp edges will make the 3D model uncomfortable to move around. Plus, sharp edges tend to chip and crack easily during the green phase. To prevent your model from breaking, smooth out the edges with 1mm fillet. If the model calls for spikes, juts and any other long sharp edge, make sure that the tips are round and dull.

Round Internal Edges

Aside from the knife edges, sharp internal edges tend to break easily especially if they are near an interlocking point. Sharp intersections in the internal angles tend to break easily which compromises your 3D model’s integrity. Before the model is printed, you must make sure that the edges are smoothed out. If they are still sharp on the final product, you can always smooth it out with a 1mm fillet.

Provide Adequate Surface Area

Whenever your design calls for interlocking points, joints and hinges, you might have to give each surface between the parts enough area to move around. Tight connections will always compromise the movement of the model which, in turn, ruins its integrity. A clearance area of at between 0.2 and 0.4 mm is ideal for many services that off Ferndale 3D printing in metal. This way, the connecting points do not wear each other out in time.