3D Printing Guide

The maximum build chamber for models to be made on the machine is (safe put 1cm margin):

x-axis – 250mm (9.84 inches) | y-axis – 210mm (8.3 inches) | 210mm (8.3 inches)

GVL uses PLA (Polylactic Acid) a corn based biodegradable plastic. The lab stocks PLA for student use. If a project requires another color of PLA purchasing of filament with Staff direction may be arranged. Filament not approved and arranged before with Staff is not allowed. 

All projects will be arranged in consultation with staff.
Please make a Staff Consultation appointment to discuss your project. Please be prepared with the following:

• The final finished dimensions of the model. (Rhino: Use “bounding box” to determine those dimensions).

• Files intended for printing must be saved in the .STL (Stereolithography) format, but please have your original design file (Rhino, Sketchup .etc) available for review.

• For multiple items, export each one as a separate .STL file, unless otherwise instructed.

Poorly prepared files will cause delays in processing, and failures in the software used to convert files to machine code. If you have any questions regarding your model and proper processing please schedule a remote meeting with DFL staff using the online scheduler. The following are general guidelines for file preparation:

• Make sure that print job is a single object and is a “closed” or “solid” object/mesh/polysurface.

• Avoid multiple “intersecting” closed objects.

• Check that all surfaces are facing outward. (Rhino: “dir” command arrows point outward, “flip” if necessary).

• Be sure that the object is oriented with a flat surface on the Z plane – not “floating in space”. The flat surface should be at least 10mm (may vary according to the model).

• Avoid trying to print a “tree” with a small base and branches above.

• For thin walls make sure that they are at a minimum of 1.6mm in thickness, 2mm is preferred.

• At file review, bring both the original file and the .stl (stereolithography) in a folder for ease of copying to the DFL 3D user database.

• Avoid overhangs that are greater than 45° or plan to use support material, which can increase print time and/or cost.

• Use inches or millimeters as the units of measurement to ensure proper scale.

• Keep finished size 5” (127.0mm) and under will diversify the number of machines available to print the model and to reduce print time and/or cost.

• Avoid large (>7 inches 170mm) square or rectangular bases that cover nearly the whole bed. These are are more difficult to start and are more prone to warping and print failure.

• Breaking up larger models into parts that can be easily printed and reassembled is highly recommended, and may sometimes be required.

• The Great Guide to Gluing and Assembling 3D Prints – Prusa Printers

There is NO GUARANTEE that items will print successfully, especially the first time, even if review through software or in person staff consultation indicates it might. 3D printing is a process subject to mechanical, heating, weather and other conditions outside of Staff’s control.  Models may require several iterations in order to obtain desired results or may be deemed “unprintable” by our equipment.  Misprints are to be expected.