Guides, Tips, and Tutorials
Helpful tips, tutorials, and guides for 3D printing enthusiasts, beginners, and experts.
-
Integrating Robotic Automation with 3D Printing: Enhancing Efficiency and Expanding Capabilities
The integration of robotic automation with 3D printing technology is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry by streamlining operations, reducing costs, and improving overall outcomes. This powerful combination enhances production efficiency and expands the capabilities of 3D printing setups, ushering in a new era of advanced manufacturing. The Rise of Robotic Automation in Manufacturing Robotic automation has…
-
Protecting Your 3D Prints and Designs: A Comprehensive Guide to Intellectual Property in Additive Manufacturing
Editor’s Note / Disclaimer The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, nor is it written by an attorney. Always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice pertaining to your specific circumstances. The author and publisher assume no liability for any outcomes or decisions…
-
Harnessing 3D Printing for Accelerated Prototyping and Product Development
In today’s fast-paced product development landscape, speed and flexibility are paramount. Traditional prototyping methods often fall short in meeting tight deadlines and accommodating iterative design changes. This is where 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, emerges as a game-changing technology. By enabling the rapid creation of custom prototypes, 3D printing accelerates the product design process, reduces…
-
Beginner vs. Pro Slicer Settings: What Really Changes?
OverviewMoving from basic, default slicer profiles to advanced, pro-level configurations can dramatically impact your 3D print quality and performance. But what exactly changes when you start diving into the advanced settings? Below, we’ll highlight key differences in slicer parameters and how they affect your prints. Default (Beginner) Settings Pro-Level Tweaks Takeaway Beginner settings aim for…
-
Top 5 Free Slicer Settings for Flawless Prints
Getting crisp, well-formed 3D prints often boils down to how well you configure your slicer. While slicing software can be overwhelming at first, some key settings deliver huge benefits—without costing a dime. In this article, we’ll explore five essential (and free!) slicer tweaks to help beginners achieve cleaner, more reliable prints. 1. Layer Height What…
-
Common Beginner Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
When starting out in 3D printing, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by new terminology, hardware setups, and the quirks of the printing process. Many beginners experience common pitfalls that lead to subpar print quality or failed prints. In this article, we’ll break down the most frequent mistakes and give you practical solutions for avoiding them…
-
Choosing Your First Filament: PLA vs. PETG vs. ABS
When you’re just getting started with 3D printing, one of the first major decisions you’ll make—beyond choosing a printer—is deciding which filament to use. Three popular (and relatively beginner-friendly) options are PLA, PETG, and ABS. Each material has its own unique characteristics, pros, cons, and best use-cases. Understanding these will help you pick the filament…
-
Essential Maintenance for FDM Printers
Keeping your FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printer in top shape is key to producing consistent, high-quality prints and extending the lifespan of your machine. Neglecting routine maintenance can lead to print failures, poor layer adhesion, and mechanical issues over time. In this article, we’ll cover the most important upkeep steps—cleaning nozzles, lubricating rods, and general…
-
3D Printing 101: Unboxing Your First Printer
Introduction Getting your first 3D printer is exciting! Whether you’ve purchased a kit that requires some elbow grease to assemble, or a fully prebuilt, “out-of-the-box” machine, there are some universal steps to follow for a smooth experience. In this article, we’ll walk you through these steps, clarify important differences (like kit vs. prebuilt, manual vs.…
-
Find 3D Printable Models Online: 10 Best Sites
The world of 3D printing has revolutionized manufacturing, making it accessible to enthusiasts and professionals alike. With the growing community, a plethora of websites now offer 3D printable models, both free and for purchase. Here are nine top sites to find 3D printing models online: These platforms serve as valuable resources for anyone interested in…