Afinia H800+ 3D Printer User’s Manual
39
Tips & Tricks
Preheat the platform before printing
Large parts can sometimes have corners lift from the platform, which causes the part to distort.
Preheating the platform (see page 29) to at least 90⁰ C when printing with ABS is a step you don’t
want to miss. Having the platform heated before print starts helps keep the model adhered to the
platform during printing.
Monitor the platform temperature in the Maintenance window.
Level Platform and Correct Nozzle Height
Two keys to successful printing and removal of the print raft is to make sure the platform is level
and that the nozzle height is set correctly. Use the Maintenance window to bring the nozzle close
to the print surface, manually level the platform as much as possible, then run the Platform
Calibration or Auto Level utilities to calibrate the platform and set the nozzle height (see pages
15-18).
Be sure to use the calibration utility to build a flat raft surface right below your model!
Position the parts as close to the center of the platform as possible
The center of the platform is where the heating is most regulated, which helps to keep the support
raft adhered to the platform. Try to avoid printing any object near the edges of the platform.
Model Orientation Tips
Generally, follow these three simple tips on model orientation for better print results:
a) Position the model so the largest flat surface is on the bottom
b) If your model has any cylindrical parts (either solid or holes), position them so they
are vertical
c) Minimize support material by orienting the model with as many concave surfaces
up as possible
Remember, these orientation tips may not apply to all models. Each model is unique and has its
own best orientation for printing.
Scaling your Model
Not only can the Afinia 3D software scale your model in all three dimensions, you can use the
Scale function to change the size in any one of the three dimensions independently. For
instance, you can make your model taller by setting the scale factor and clicking just the Z Axis
button without affecting the width or depth (see page 23).
Minimum Model Cross-Section
Due to the width of the extruded filament, models with portions that have a horizontal cross-section
of smaller than 0.8mm to 1.0mm may have missing print areas.
Merging and Rafts
Positioning multiple models too closely in the software can result in overlapping rafts, leading to
print failure. Use Merge in the Edit menu before printing to have the software eliminate that
problem by creating a single raft instead of several.
Be sure to save these merged models if you will be regularly printing them as a group!
Minimal Support Material Use
The Afinia 3D Software includes a feature that allows you to avoid most support material. When
specifying the Print Preferences, select Only Base for the Support Area setting (see page 27-28).
Support material around the bottom of the model will still be generated, but the amount of support
material will be greatly reduced.
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