3D printing is the cheapest way to create 3D models. You simply need STL files for 3d printing. The volume of the 3D model, amount and type of material and time it takes to give the finishing touch dictate the cost of 3D printing. Using less material is one of the ways to reduce the cost of 3D printing. To use less material, you have to hollow out your 3D model. You can also avoid deformation or discoloration of the object by hollowing out your model. However, you have to choose the right material.
You can hollow out the model in your 3D modeling software.
- First of all, define the thickness of the wall. Make sure that the wall is strong enough. You don’t want your model to break.
- Add the required number of escape holes to the model.
Wall Thickness
Wall thickness is the distance between one surface and its opposite sheer surface in the model. It is the minimum thickness the model should have. Make sure that you are assigning a wall thickness to every surface of the model. 3D modeling software allows you to create a surface without assigning a wall thickness. However, your 3D printer requires this information to create a wall of the right thickness. Issues with wall thickness can cause many printing problems.
The minimum printable wall thickness is influenced by the following factors:
- Material
- Alignment
- Overall design of the model
Choose wall thickness very wisely as the model can become fragile when the wall is too thin. The parts of the model can break off. So, it is important to follow the basic guidelines for the material you are choosing.
Hollowing Out The Model
Not all 3D modeling software applications work the same. It is easy to hollow out in some programs. You don’t need to invest in a premium 3D printing software. Even free 3D Modeling software comes with this feature. Hollowing out a model using SketchUp is a bit complicated. Autodesk Meshmixer is the easiest option for you.
Escape Holes
The 3D printer creates a model in layers. When you are hollowing it out, the material gets trapped inside the model. Escape holes allow you to remove the trapped material out from the 3D model.
- Pressurized air is used to clean in the case of powder-based 3D printing.
- In the case of resin-based printing & casting, you can use escape holes to drain out excess resin.
- If you are using Lost Wax 3D Printing & Casting, these holes allow you to remove unprinted wax resin.
Now you have to determine the number and size of escape holes in the model. This depends on the material and size of the model. 3D printing is the least expensive way of making 3D models. If you want further savings then reduce the amount of material. However, you must choose the right wall thickness. Download STL files for 3d printing and create your model now!
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