Important issues to insure successful results before exporting the CAD file
- The CAD file has to be exported in .stl or .vrml format in order for it to be imported into the Z print software.
- Create surfaces with no gaps (trim etc.).
- Normals of each surface have to be set pointing away from the object.
- Wall thickness (dependent on the geometry): For very thin walled parts normal engineering practices of adding ribs for support or creating fillets or reinforcing edges and minimizing spans should be used. Wall thickness should not be less than 1/8 inch.
- Reduce cost: Parts should be shelled and have the voids connected to the outside so that we may reclaim and recycle the powder.
- Fitting parts: Very thin or spindly parts should be constructed from a different material as they are vulnerable to break. When parts are designed to connect to a 3D printed model, this 3D printed model should incorporate a mating socket or groove. Users must offset mating walls negative 0.010 inch per occurrence (the part expands by this amount during the printing process).
- Scale: Be aware of the scale and units of the CAD model.
