A print deforms because the material shrinks as it cools. How much the product shrinks depends on the shrinkage factor of the material. Because the print bed is nice and warm, the material will shrink the least at the bottom. The higher up the product goes, the more it shrinks. This difference causes tension in the material and ultimately a warped model. Warping can occur in the product in two ways. First, there is de-lamination. This is when two layers in the model split and a crack appears. This is usually caused by the layers not sticking together properly. If you use the right settings, de-lamination should not occur. The second variation is warping at the bottom of the product. This is a more persistent problem, but fortunately there are a few methods to prevent it.

Temperature control is very important in preventing warping. Choose a printer where the product will cool as gradually as possible. A conditioned, sealed enclosure is essential. That way you have control over the temperature inside the printer to minimize the difference in shrinkage. Our Rapid One has an enclosed print booth with fans in the back wall and optional HEPA filters. Perfect for maintaining the perfect temperature and preventing warping.

In warping, two forces face each other: the tensile force of the shrinking top layers versus the tensile force of the print bed. Simply put, if the bottom is firmly glued to the print bed, it will not warp easily. There are a few tools you can use to secure the model to the bed. One common method is to use a slurry that acts like an adhesive. You can make this slurry yourself with acetone and ABS, but be careful! If you use too much of this glue, you can no longer (easily) remove the product from the print bed. Result: broken glass plates. A safer option is to use specialized tools like PEI sheets. These hold your print firmly to prevent warping, but the model is still easy to remove after printing.

5 ways to increase your 3D printing speed

Fast prototyping is possible with a 3D printer. However, sometimes a higher 3D printing speed is preferred. Our helpdesk often receive the question whether it is possible to increase the 3D printing speed. This is possible, but it may affect the quality of the 3D print. In this blog, you will find 5 ways to increase your 3D printing speed, but also the effects that it can have on the final product.

1. Customize default 3D printing speed

The most common way is to adjust the print speed in the settings of your slicing software. You can adjust the speed to your wish. During the development of the dddrop EVO Twin, the control of the speed of the print head was an important starting point. This resulted in perfect acceleration and deceleration of the print head, which assures neat 3D-printmodels and efficiency in print speed. The overall print speed can be increased significantly without doing any prejudice to the quality of the 3D-model, even the ones with sharp corners. But, if you have a straightforward product,you can increase your 3D printing speed even more.

2. Infill density and wall thickness

Solid prints consist of thicker and stronger outliners and are filled in with honeycomb structure. If you do not use this structure, the 3D print will take a longer time before it is finished. However, if you already use an infill, you still have some options to increase your 3D printing speed. For example: try to reduce your infill even more, but keep in mind that the ratio between the wall thickness and infill remains good. This will prevent 3D models from collapsing. If you would like to try this, please contact our helpdesk (+31 314-377050) for more information. NOTE: a product with a lower infill density and smaller wall thickness is more vulnerable. Therefore we recommend to use this technique only with products where strength is not an important factor. For example: display models / prototyping. Read more about creating a strong infill. 

3. Using a larger nozzle and bigger layer height

Bigger layer height will reduce print time. If accuracy does not matter, you can choose for printing with a larger nozzle and maximum layer height. The maximum layer height is 75% of the nozzle diameter. This means that with a 0.8mm nozzle you can build a layer of 0.6mm. Herewith the layers become thinner, which has an effect on the firmness of the product. Also, printing with thicker layers mean more loss of details. dddrop offers the right nozzle for every job: super detailed or super-fast. You can choose from the print heads: 0,2 – 0,4 (standard) – 0,6 – 0,8 – 1,0mm. 

4. Producing in the same batch

Sometimes we receive the question: “I would like to have this product finished today, because then I can start a new print before I go home”. In this case, we advise you to print both products in the same batch. Both products are finished the next morning. However, this is only possible when both products are small enough and fit on the print bed. To perform this step, use the function center and arrange in your slicing software. Producing in the same batch provides more convenience and saves time. Resetting and heating your printer is no longer necessary. Keep in mind that you use the same filaments for both products to prevent heat problems. Thus, this option is an indirect way to increase your 3D printing speed.

5. One material, two purposes

The dddrop EVO Twin 3D printer has 2 independent print heads. Therefore the printer is able to print multi-colour and multi-material. This means you can print a model of PLA and use soluble support material. However, the printer has to switch between 2 materials. Certainly when in each layer 2 colours are processed, it will take a lot of time. A solution to increase indirectly your 3D printing speed is to use 1 material for both purposes, so using PLA material as the main material as well as support material. This is a function in your slicing software. The PLA support material will be printed with a lower infill density, so afterwards it is easier to remove. In this way the printer doesn’t have to switch between 2 materials and this will save you a lot of printing time. More about printing with support material you will read here.

Conclusion: increasing your 3D printing speed has an effect on your final product. It’s a matter of priorities. Do you want to save time, minimize costs or increase quality?

Remote printing with the dddrop smart module

The dddrop smart module has many advantages that can be applied for remote work situations. The module gives full control of the 3D printing process via a mobile and desktop application, provides a live feed via the 3D printer’s built-in camera with the option to record the feed and view it later, and offers print process statue review via email.

3D printing large parts can take many hours. With the dddrop smart module, you can consistently check the progress of the 3D printer without having to stay near it. Checking the 3D print online means that you don’t have to physically check the machine until the end of the printing process.

So, how does it work?

1. First, download the mobile app or go to your web portal.
   • For mobile devices – download the dddrop-app from the Playstore
   • On desktop go to smart.dddrop.com
2. Log in to your printer. If you do not know your login information please contact us
   • Email: cs@dddrop.com
   • Phone: +31 (0)314 377050
3. Now, you are logged in, and ready to use the dddrop smart module. You have full access to the machine and can control it through the different tabs:
   • Camera view tab: with a status bar of 3D print
   • Influence settings-tab
   • Load-in tab
   • Maintenance tab
   • Settings tab

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For more information about the dddrop Smart Module and the RAPID ONE printer click here.

In the ever-evolving domain of additive manufacturing, the innovation of carbon fiber filaments has marked a significant milestone, paving the way for many industrial applications. Utilized in a carbon fiber 3D printer, this specialized filament embodies a unique blend of carbon fibers and thermoplastic materials, tailored meticulously for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology. When extruded through a carbon fiber 3D printer, the filament melds into a solid structure, embedding the carbon fibers within, thereby imparting a remarkable strength-to-weight ratio to the printed parts. This distinct characteristic of carbon fiber 3D printing is a linchpin in applications where both durability and weight are critical determinants. The ensuing sections delve into the intricacies of PET-G Carbon, the ease of printing with this material, and a deeper exploration of its applications across various industries.

Among the notable materials is PET-G Carbon, which stands as a robust contender in the lineup of 3D printing materials. The dddrop 3D printers, in particular, have been meticulously engineered to offer a broad spectrum of material choices, thanks to the dddrop open filament policy. This policy transcends the mere freedom of selecting any filament supplier; it extends to the liberty of choosing any material, thereby enriching the 3D printing experience. The encapsulated casing with temperature control, coupled with a heated printer bed, empowers the creation of models from a multitude of materials, thus expanding the horizons of what can be achieved with 3D printing.

In this segment, the spotlight is cast on PET-G Carbon, exploring its core attributes and the advantages it brings to the table. The fusion of carbon fibers with the base material PET-G culminates in a filament endowed with enhanced qualities. Carbon fiber, known for its remarkable strength, imbues the filament with heightened sturdiness and rigidity. This augmentation in hardness significantly mitigates the risk of scratches or other forms of damage when a 3D printed model interacts with other objects. However, it’s crucial to note that the increased hardness makes the material more susceptible to breakage upon impact compared to regular PET-G filament.

PET-G, in its pristine form without the carbon fibers, is famously recognized in the form of PET-bottles used for housing sodas. This form of PET-G exudes a shiny appearance; however, the infusion of carbon fiber alters its aesthetic to a matte and anthracite hue, which could be a desirable trait for certain applications.

In the subsequent sections, the ease of printing with PET-G Carbon and its alternative for larger models, PA Carbon, will be explored further, diving into the practical aspects of using these materials in a carbon fiber 3D printer.

Integrating carbon fibers does more than enhance the strength; it also significantly reduces the risk of scratching or other forms of damage when a 3D printed model interacts with other objects. This is particularly beneficial in applications where the model may be subject to physical contact or abrasion. However, it’s essential to note that while the hardness increases, the material is more prone to breaking when dropped than regular PET-G filaments. This trade-off needs to be considered based on the specific use case and the environment in which the printed object will be used.

The aesthetic transformation that accompanies the addition of carbon fiber is also noteworthy. Unlike the shiny appearance of traditional PET-G, the carbon-filled variant takes on a matte and anthracite-colored finish, which might be preferable for applications seeking a sleek, professional look.

The working temperature for PET-G Carbon stands at 80°C, a parameter that ensures the material does not warp, thereby aiding in the retention of the shape of the printed models. This is a significant advantage, especially in applications where dimensional accuracy and structural integrity are crucial. The non-warping characteristic also reduces the likelihood of printing failures, saving both time and material resources.

Despite the ease of printing, it’s important to acknowledge that PET-G Carbon is an abrasive material. The embedded carbon fibers, while enhancing strength, also increase the wear on the brass nozzle of the printer. This is a common challenge faced when printing with abrasive materials and may necessitate the use of a hardened or stainless steel nozzle to mitigate the wear and prolong the lifespan of the printer nozzle.

The journey of exploring PET-G Carbon accentuates the versatility and growth within the 3D printing material spectrum, highlighting the potential to achieve strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing prints with relative ease. As we transition to discussing PA Carbon in the ensuing section, the narrative continues on the path of unveiling the robust material options available for a carbon fiber 3D printer, each with its unique set of advantages and considerations.

One of the prominent PA Carbon filaments is Novamid® ID 1030 CF10 from DSM, which is a concoction of PA 6/66 along with carbon fiber. The incorporation of carbon fiber into the polyamide matrix elevates the strength, stiffness, and hardness of the filament, making it a more suitable candidate for larger models. Furthermore, the carbon fiber infusion results in a filament that is lighter and offers commendable resistance to collision and heat, properties that are often requisite in larger 3D printed models.

The heat resistance is particularly noteworthy as Novamid® ID 1030 CF10 can withstand high temperatures without distorting, a feature that is paramount in applications where the printed parts may be exposed to elevated temperatures.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the journey of printing with PA Carbon, particularly Novamid® ID 1030 CF10, comes with its share of challenges owing to its high-tech nature. Unlike PET-G Carbon, PA filament requires a more refined set of print settings to achieve optimal results. This necessitates a deeper understanding and perhaps a more experienced hand at managing the print parameters to ensure successful prints.

The team at dddrop has conducted extensive testing to derive the correct print settings for Novamid® ID 1030 CF10, easing the path for users. The use of Magigoo PA, for instance, is recommended for perfect adhesion to the 3D printer bed, ensuring that the prints remain stable throughout the printing process.

In a nutshell, PA Carbon, and specifically Novamid® ID 1030 CF10, opens the doors to printing larger carbon models with a carbon fiber 3D printer. While it may demand a higher level of expertise and attention to print settings, the payoff in terms of strength, heat resistance, and size capabilities is significant. Through the lens of PA Carbon, we continue to explore the expansive realm of carbon fiber 3D printing, each material bringing its unique set of advantages to the fore, and catering to a broad spectrum of application needs.

One of the most vibrant arenas where carbon fiber 3D printing shines is in the construction of drones. The strength-to-weight ratio is crucial for drone components, as it directly impacts the flight efficiency and durability of the drone. Carbon fiber 3D printed parts provide the requisite strength while keeping the weight minimal, thus contributing to enhanced flight times and overall performance.

The prosthetics field also benefits immensely from carbon fiber 3D printing. Creating prosthetic limbs and supports that are both lightweight and strong can significantly enhance the comfort and mobility of individuals who rely on these devices. The customizable nature of 3D printing and the superior properties of carbon fiber filaments pave the way for personalized, durable, and functionally efficient prosthetic solutions.

The side of 3D printed models are made up of hundreds of different layers. When everything is working optimally, these layers appear to be one because of the smoothness of the surface. But when something goes wrong during the placement of the layers, it is clearly visible on the outside of the print. The incorrect layers are presented in the form of lines or ridges on the side of the model. This can have several causes and one of them is ghosting. In this blog we will explain why ghosting occurs and how it can be avoided.