3D printing of small parts is one of the great uses of additive manufacturing, being responsible for the beginning of the technology. The part can already be created thinking about this type of 3D printing like printers Kent for example, or it can be adapted from specific software for this type of application, and in all cases, it is necessary to study and understand the process as a whole. Of attention to 3D printing in general; in 3D printing of small parts, there are more points of attention to guarantee quality and efficiency during the process.
Beware Of Print Speed
In 3D printing small parts, speed is not synonymous with quality. To obtain the desired success in this type of application, attention must be paid to the correct speed both in the extrusion of the filament and in the movement of the extruder nozzle through the printing area—3D printing of small parts. The lower the speed, the longer the extruder nozzle will stay in the same region. This can ensure that the layers are deposited correctly, as long as the speed does not influence the region's temperature and impact the area's cooling, causing the part to deform.
Utilize Full Print Table Space
This tip is very important for 3D printing small parts and shows the importance of simultaneously printing more than one small object on the printing table. The explanation for this tip is integrated with the previous tip – when there is only one piece on the printing table, the hot nozzle will stay longer over a region, making it difficult for the layers to cool down and for the material to take the correct shape.
With the material hot for a long time, there is a risk of bubbles and flaws in the surface finish of the small part. When placing more than one part on the same printing table, the extruder nozzle will travel through the printing area for longer, considerably improving the final finish. It increased cooling time. The problem with this tip is the possible loss of material when you want to use the 3D printer to manufacture just one part. Understanding the risks and producing more than one part on the table can prevent all the work done from being lost.
Use The Cooler Sparingly
The cooler or directional fan is very important for printing small parts. Even if the printer does not have this factory part, the installation can directly impact the 3D printing of small parts. This will help finish and manufacture the parts, especially when the temperature is not controlled according to the 3D printing. Some precautions must be taken, such as the filament becoming brittle when the part is cooled. ABS tends to exhibit this shrinkage, so it is important to be aware of the behavior of the part and the environment during manufacturing. So, experiment with different fan power when printing with filaments that have more twitching or warping effect. This control exists and can vary from 0% (off) to 100%. Be aware that your fan, over time, may no longer have all the original factory power and, over time, blow less wind. Maintenance or replacement may be required.
