Electronics

How to Use a 3d Printer at Home

Few people will find those who haven’t dreamed of printing out three-dimensional objects in their teenage years, especially those who were techie. Technology has fulfilled the dream through the invention of 3D printers. It allows you to create any three-dimensional object such as toys, households, gifts, phone cases, and art items.

Unfortunately, utilizing this 3D printer differs from using a regular printer. Unlike regular printers, the process of working with a 3D printer requires going through several steps. These steps will be quite unfamiliar if you are not used to these printers. Don’t worry; we will let you know the complete procedure of using a 3D printer at home in this context.

What Are the Differences Between 3D Printers and Traditional Printers?

3D printers are an entirely different thing from regular printers. It is the process of turning a computer-generated design into a three-dimensional object. This process involves adding layers of material to create a three-dimensional object. The price of these printers is also quite different from traditional printers. Entry-level and hobbyist 3D printers are priced from $300-$500, whereas professionals are from $1,500-$20,000 and even more.

Regular printers are typically used to print any picture or text on a flat surface like paper. You will find smaller, cheaper printer models from larger, expensive professional printers. But for regular use, choosing the best home printer under $150 will be a good decision. With this type of printer, you can do your daily printing activities.

What Do You Need To Use A 3D Printer At Home? 

A 3D printer comes with everything you will need to print any design. Here is the list of essentials you will need to use this printer.

  • 3D Printer: A 3D printer is a prime instrument you will need to print any third dimension design. Different types of printers you will find, you should use the best one.
  • Materials: Some 3D printers come with materials, whereas some are not. You can buy materials depending on your design from 3D printing vendors.
  • Software: Often, printers supply their own software to design and operate the printer. If you find it complicated to use the software, you should go for other third-party software.
  • Consumables: Apart from materials, your 3D printer may come or require other consumables such as grease or oil for maintenance and adhesive for construction surfaces.
  • Tools: Some 3D printers may come with one or two simple tools for maintenance or basic configuration change.

How To Use A 3D Printer At Home?

Utilizing a 3D printer will not be difficult if you follow the right procedure. Check out the steps below to learn how to use a 3D printer properly at home.

Set Up Software

You have to work with two different types of software to print any object with a 3D printer: CAD and Slicing software. CAD software helps to create any object or model. You can also import STL file designs from a different application on CAD. Once you prepare the design, you have to import it to the slicing software. This software will break down the design into layers so that the printer can interpret it. The Gcode in the silencing software will tell the printer where to move the axis and how much spit to get out through the nozzle.

Prepare Your Design

With the help of a computer, design a model with CAD, get one from a 3D scan, or download a design from the internet. Translate your design into certain coordinates that the 3D printer can understand. Besides, customize the model size and shape so that your printer can print your model. After finishing the designing and slicing, send your design file to the 3D printer. 

Set Up Printer

The configuration system completely depends on the type of printer. So, configure your printer based on your design and printer. Ensure you selected the right material to print before you start printing. Some printers allow you to choose different nozzle sizes that make the printing task faster. So, you should check the configuration and the prompt of your printer before you start printing.

Find Materials

At this stage, you have to collect the materials for your design. Before looking for materials, it is good to have an idea of what you wish to print. Based on the characteristics of the designs, you have to choose materials from the market. Most printers usually use spools of filament designed to be melted and cooled to hold the design structure. This is one of the least costly materials to use in a 3D printer for painting an object. However, filament comes in different diameters, and choosing between 1.75 mm and 3 mm will be good for your design.

Heat Your Printer

Now, start heating your 3D printer. Once the printer is heated, load it with the materials. You should use poly lactic acid (PLA) if this is your first print. To know the heat requirements of different metals, you have to study them first. This way, it will be easy to know which materials stick together better and good for your model.

Start Printing

Once you set all configurations and load materials, start the printer. Take a rest until the printer makes your design. The print time can vary based on your design size and materials. A small design could take a few hours, whereas a large design with intricate details can take longer.

Get Your Design    

When the painting process is complete, your printer will make a sound. Now remove your design from the printer. Some printers may require a few post-procedures before you are easy to use. So, it will be good to consult your printer’s manufacturers to check if you need to wait a little longer.

What Can You Do With A 3D Printer?

With a 3D printer, you can make different objects, including toys, gifts, household items, and even art objects. Some common ideas for using your 3D printer.

Print Functional Toys

Toys are attractive to children since they’re entertaining to use and play with. Making something useful for children is always fun and enjoyable. In that case, a 3D printer can be an excellent machine to make toys for kids.

Paint Household Items

You can build anything using a 3D printer, from little cups to chairs. For example, you have a dull setting position and need a chair for it. With the help of a 3D printer, you can easily make a chair for your dull.

Print Gifts  

Gifts are the better way to expand relationships. To extend the enjoyment and relationship, you can make gifts with a 3D printer. Besides, it allows you to decorate your Christmas with your own art. You can also print custom cards and posters to send to others.

3D Printed Case  

You can give your phone case a special touch by using a 3D printer. It allows you to print different colors of filaments on your phone case’s surface. You can even download different 3D phone case models to make a new case for your mobile.

Print Art Items

Printing art with a 3D printer is an excellent way to transform ideas into tangible works. It enables you to make different art items, like sculptures, jewelry ornaments, and so on. A 3D printer gives you countless options when it comes to making any 3D objects.    

Tips For Using 3D Printer At Home

Although 3D printers plug and play devices, you will need both technical and creative knowledge to print an object. In that case, following some simple tricks, you can make these tasks easier than before. These tricks are as follows:

  • Use a prominent brand 3D printer that supports all configurations so that you can print your customization design.
  • Adjust the nozzle and level of the print properly, which will help enhance the quality of your printed object. For leveling the distance between the bed and nozzle, you can use a sheet of paper.
  • When printing any tall object, be aware of the nozzle temperature. A high temperature will melt the layers, resulting in malformed objects.
  • Store your filaments in a dry place, as most materials absorb water, including nylon, flexible materials, and ABS.
  • Set up your 3D printer in a well-ventilated space, especially if you are working with ABS filaments.
  • Clean the printer frequently with isopropyl alcohol and ensure to unplug during maintenance.
  • Always use heat-resistant gloves when you need to touch something while running the printer.

Conclusion

Learning to use a 3D printer is not a one-day task. It may take some time to get used to your printer and make the most of its features. You may have to spend a long time using software to design and slice a 3D model. Once you have become familiar with your printer, printing 3D objects will be easy.

However, following the simple process discussed above, you can learn to use this printer in a short time. Besides, the tips we have discussed will help you get your printer’s maximum advantages. If you still have any difficulty using your 3D printer, write to us in the comment section. Our technical unit will assist you with providing the proper guideline.

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