If you’re considering prototyping or building something imaginative, 3D printing can quickly help you realize your vision. You must have the required skill in 3D file design if you want to make the utmost use of fast prototyping to its maximum.

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software can be used to create these files. Modeling and product design already make extensive use of these applications. There are certain things that must be considered while making modelling for 3D printing, even though the basics of 3D modelling are the same across all design verticals.

Modeling for 3D printing differs slightly from 3D modeling for renders. Layers 3D printing experts have created important design criteria to assist you in producing flawless and accurate prototypes and models using 3D printing.

Keep in mind the minimum wall thickness

The minimal thickness that your model must have at any given point is known as the minimum wall thickness. The printing process and material selected affect the minimum printable wall thickness. Make sure to read the design manuals for the material of your choice.

Keep in mind that sometimes problems can also occur due to maximum wall thickness. Know how to give each surface of your 3D model proper wall thickness. This step may have a different version depending on the 3D modelling software. However, it is vital for preparing a 3D print.

Imagine, evaluate and think about your design. If it has any weaker sections, make sure to add the design elements that will support them.

Study printing material guidelines

Each printing material has a unique composition. Materials can be fragile or robust, elastic or rigid, smooth or textured, heavy or light, and so forth. An item should be designed as per the specific type of material. For instance, if you intend to print your 3D model in ceramic, there are special design considerations that must be made, such as supporting overhanging areas, strengthening protruding pieces, rounding off corners, and so on. Being one of the top 3D printing companies in the UAE, we are here to guide you on this.

Choosing your printing material are one of the fundamental designing principles that you must follow. Some materials can be used to construct thin walls because they are strong and durable. Some strong and thick materials such as ABS can be used to make walls to minimize cracking and fracture after 3D printing. Therefore, the designer must structure the models as per the properties of the material to be printed. It will also help if the person is technically competent and can guide the designer with the actual drawing process.

Design to avoid or reduce supports

Despite constant upgrades in support algorithms, base material or support material can still leave unsightly blemishes on the surface of your prints. It will also take a good amount of time to remove the support material. Hence, it is best to create your models so that they can be 3D printed without assistance to prevent such issues.

Keep in mind the 45-degree rule that overhangs that are more than 45 degrees require support. You can use creative modelling techniques to print the model. Design your own support/bridging items into your models, such as cones and other base elements. Mix the supports into your core design at all times.

Model must be watertight

It is necessary for the model to be entirely closed, typically known as “watertight.” You can do this by including a 3D mesh suitable for 3D printing. Most 3D design software programs readily offer the option to produce mesh. Make sure to do this procedure before the model is exported as an STL file as it may be challenging to identify and correct issues after the model has been transformed. This issue can also arise while transferring files between modelling systems.

Study the STL File resolution

The most common file format for 3D printing is Standard Triangle Language (STL). Simply said, your design will be translated into triangles in the 3D space. The majority of 3D modelling software applications will give you the option to export your creations to an STL file while helping you set the required resolution.