It starts with your 3D model
1. Hollow out your model if possible
Hollowing out your model is an effective way to save on material and, consequently, costs. Instead of a solid object, you can hollow out parts of your model. This reduces the amount of filament needed and significantly shortens print time. Just make sure you keep enough structural support to maintain the model's integrity.
2. Choose the right wall thickness
Whether your model is hollow or solid, wall thickness plays a major role in the cost. Walls that are too thick use unnecessary material, while walls that are too thin won't be strong enough. Finding the right balance is key. Experiment with different wall thicknesses to find the sweet spot that is both sturdy and cost-effective. A recommended minimum thickness is 2 millimeters.
3. Try to minimize the need for support structures
Support structures are often necessary for printing complex models, but they use more material and increase print time. As you might guess, that costs you more money. You can avoid this by designing your model to require little to no support. Consider using sharp angles and slopes to reduce the need for supports. Avoid overhangs of 45 degrees or more.
Printing considerations
4. Your choice of print material has a big impact
The print material significantly affects the final quality, durability, and cost of your project. Materials like PLA, ABS and PETG each have their own pros and cons. For example, PLA is easy to print and eco-friendly, while ABS is stronger and more heat-resistant. Choose the right material based on your specific requirements and the conditions of your project.
5. A high infill percentage is often unnecessary
In many cases, 15% infill is enough to strike a good balance between strength and material usage. This means only 15% of the object's interior is filled. For most prints, this is plenty.
Consider whether your project needs extra strength, flexibility, or other properties that justify a higher infill percentage. For example, if you're printing a mechanical part that needs to withstand heavy loads, a higher infill might be necessary.
6. The smaller the layer height, the more expensive the print
Layer height directly impacts print costs. The smaller the layer height, the more layers are needed to complete the model, which means it takes longer to print. This results in higher material usage and, consequently, higher costs.
Furthermore, the finer the layer height, the more detail and precision you get in the printed object. While this leads to a higher-quality end product, you also have to account for the longer production time and increased wear and tear on the printer.
Consider whether a very fine layer height is truly necessary for your project, or if a slightly coarser one would provide sufficient results without the extra cost. It's important to find a balance between the desired quality and the costs you're willing to incur. Sometimes a slightly less detailed print can still be highly functional and aesthetically pleasing, while saving you both time and money.
In summary
- Hollow out your model: Save material and reduce print time by hollowing out your model while maintaining sufficient structural support.
- Choose a good wall thickness: Find a balance in wall thickness to avoid unnecessary material consumption while maintaining enough strength. A minimum of 2 millimeters is recommended.
- Minimize support structures: Design your model so it requires little to no support, for example by using sharp angles and slopes and avoiding overhangs of 45 degrees or more.
- Choose the right print material: Select the material (PLA, ABS, PETGbased on the specific requirements and circumstances of your project.
- Use a low infill percentage: An infill of 15% is often enough to strike a good balance between strength and material usage.
- Optimize layer height: Decide if a very fine layer height is truly necessary for your project. Coarser layer heights save time and money, while still being functional and aesthetically pleasing.
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