WEEK 4: INCREASING PRINT SPEEDS
This week we went through the factors that affect the speed of 3D printing as well as how we can reduce the time taken.
FACTORS THAT AFFECT PRINT SPEED
The factors that affect print speed are:
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Layer height
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Infill density
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Infill pattern
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support structures (amount/type)
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size of print
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Printer type
INFILL DENSITY VS TIME
An increase in infill density can result in a much higher time taken to print the model, however, it can also increase the stability of the structure.
INFILL TYPE
Different types of infills can also affect the structure and stability of the model.
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20% infill should be used for prototypes while 15% is recommended.
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Lightning infill is the fastest infill but has the lowest amount of stability.
OPTIMISATION PRESETS
Adaptive layer height and vase mode can be applied to the models to significantly reduce the time and save filament taken to print. However, vase mode can only be applied to specific models that do not have low angle overhangs and are hollow at the top.
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OVER-OPTIMISATION
Overoptimization happens when we prioritize time over the stability of the model which can result in collapse of the print.
cube model printsthat failed due to lack of proper structure, high layer height and lack of infill.
SPLITTING MODEL
splitting the model can reduce the need of support structures reducing print time and filament needed.
However as seen above, it is not always the case sometimes splitting the model can add to the time because the machine spends more time panning around the plate to print.
PRINTER TYPE
Sometimes, the best way to reduce the time taken to print is to use a better printer that has a higher speed.
Prusa model left 6min
Ultimaker model right 12min
PRINTING INFILL EXPERIMENT
Gyroid infill 10% 12min
I have printed 3 calibration cubes of different infills, grid, lightning and gyroid. So far, Gyroid seems to be the most reliable while lightning is the fastest and weakest model.
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After doing some research, i found out that Grid is about the same strength as gyroid however some overlapping or scraping of the nozzle is more likely due to the placement of the previously placed filament which can cause damage to the nozzle or uneven layers.
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thickening the walls of the model could make simple models using lightning infill much more stable while maintaining the high speeds and low material usage.
REFLECTION
In conclusion, We have to find a balance between structure and time taken for the model to be completed if we want to be efficient while 3D printing. By taking these factors into consideration, we are able to do so.