Categories
3D Printing

Leveling Formlabs 3D Printers

General Overview

Before printing can begin, the printer must be completely level. This built-in check ensures that resin is dispensed correctly and the printer does not overfill the tank. Leveling may be necessary during the initial printer setup, or after moving the printer to another location.



Select Foot to Level

When the printer is not level, the dot at the center of the concentric rings shifts out of place. A printer foot is highlighted with an arrow indicating the direction to turn.


Raise or Lower the Leveling Foot

Slide the leveling disc included with your printer around the foot indicated on the printer’s touchscreen. Rotate the leveling disc clockwise to raise and counter-clockwise to lower each foot of the printer.

Note: For an absolutely perfect level, you may be required to adjust multiple feet.


Verify the Leveling Process

When the dot is at the center of the concentric rings and the four dots around it turn blue on the printer’s touchscreen, the printer is level.

Categories
3D Printing

Setting Up Your Formlabs Form 3/3B

This page will allow you to learn the best practices to set up and use the Form 3/Form 3B and its Resin Tank, Build Platform, and resin dispensing system. Reference the quick link section to the right for specific procedures in the setup process.


Printer Components


Unlocking the Light Processing Unit (LPU)

A latch secures the Light Processing Unit (LPU) within the printer during shipping. To release the LPU housing from its shipping position:

01

Locate the latch (A) on the LPU housing.

02

Loosen and remove the thumb screws (B) and LPU latch.

03

Store the thumb screws and latch with the original packaging. The LPU must be secured with the thumb screws and latch during any printer transportation.


Powering the Printer On

The first time the printer is connected to power, it will display a series of onboarding steps on the touchscreen. The onboarding steps include instructions for inserting consumables (resin tank, resin cartridge, and build platform) into the Form 3/Form 3B, additional details for which are given below. Follow these steps to prepare the Form 3/Form 3B for use.


Inserting the Resin Tank

The resin tank is the primary container for holding resin after it is dispensed from the cartridge. Resin is cured onto the build platform when the laser passes through the tank’s bottom film. To insert the resin tank:

01

Lift the printer’s cover and remove the resin tank from its case.

02

Remove all packaging from the resin tank before inserting it into the printer, including the foam inside the resin tank that holds the mixer in place.

03

Align the resin tank side walls with the left and right tank carrier rails. The front and rear walls of the resin tank should hang over the ends of the rails and the tank’s resin fill spout should fit into the corresponding hole in the Z tower. The tank is not locked into place in this position but should sit flat and level.

04

Holding the side handles on the tank, gently push the tank down and forward until it locks into the rails and is flush against the back of the printer. You should not need to apply significant force. The printer will not properly detect the tank unless the tank is fully inserted
NOTE: If the printer is powered on, it will display a message on the touchscreen and play a notification sound once it detects the tank. The status light on the top of the printer and the logo on the front of the printer will also flash to show that a tank has been detected.


Insert the Mixing Arm

Each resin tank includes a mixer that improves print consistency by clearing the build area and circulating the resin. Scrapers on the top and bottom of the mixer clear the build platform and film, respectively. To insert the mixer:

01

Orient the mixer with the flexure arms facing upward and toward the float case on the left side of the tank. The magnets in the mixer should be facing down.

02

Slide the mixer to the left, into the float case, until the flexure arms on each end click into place.


Inserting the Build Platform

The build platform is the surface that each part prints onto. To insert the build platform:

  1. Lift the build platform carriage handle.
  2. Align the build platform with the build platform carriage and push into place.
  3. Lock the handle down to secure the build platform.

Preparing the Resin Cartridge

The resin cartridge stores resin to be dispensed into the resin tank. To prepare the resin cartridge:

  • Shake the resin cartridge to ensure the resin is well-mixed.
    • Shake the resin cartridge approximately every two weeks to keep the formula well-mixed for the best print quality.
  • Remove the protective valve cover from the underside of the cartridge.
    • Consider saving the cover to protect the valve during storage.

Inserting the Resin Cartridge

To insert the resin cartridge:

  • Align the cartridge with the opening at the back of the printer.
  • Push down on the cartridge handle until the top of the cartridge is level with the back shell of the printer.
  • Press open the vent cap before starting a print so that the resin tank fills correctly.

Next Steps

Preform download and overview

Preform is the software provided by Formlabs that will convert your model file into machine directions to create your print. These machine instructions are produced automatically, based upon user configurable options.

Removing prints and post-processing requirements

Always remove the build platform first, then remove the resin tank, as this will help to avoid dripping resin onto the glass optical window or into the printer cavity.

Recommended maintenance

Schedule of maintenance

Categories
3D Printing

Formlabs Error Messages for 3/3B and 3L/3BL

General Overview

The printer’s touchscreen displays error messages if the printer encounters any abnormalities and displays more details about the error. This page will cover warning messages along with what you will need to do when one presents itself on the Form 3/3B.


Diagnostic Logs

Formlabs printers maintain diagnostic logs to provide detailed information about the printer. Include these diagnostic logs with other relevant observations and details when contacting Formlabs Support or your authorized reseller to speed up resolution.

For printers connected to the internet over an active Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection:

  1. Tap the wrench icon on the bottom left of the printer’s Home screen. The Settings screen appears.
  2. Tap System. The System screen appears.
  3. Tap Upload Diagnostic Info. A confirmation message to upload diagnostic information appears.
  4. Tap Next to start the upload. A confirmation message appears when the upload is complete.
  5. If the printer displays an error message indicating that it cannot upload the logs, there may not be enough storage space on the printer for the upload. Delete print jobs from the Queue to clear enough storage space to upload the diagnostic logs.
  6. Restart the printer and try again.

For Printers Not Connected to the Internet:

  1. Open PreForm.
  2. Click File > Printers in the menu bar. The Printer List window appears.
  3. Select the printer’s serial name. The Printer Details window for the selected printer appears.
  4. Click Download Logs. A confirmation window appears.
  5. Click Browse to download the diagnostic logs to a preferred location on your computer.
  6. Click OK. The diagnostic logs save and appear in the encrypted FORMLOGS format.
  7. Attach the file when contacting Formlabs Support or your authorized reseller.
  8. If PreForm displays the message ERROR_BAD_STATE, there may not be enough storage space on the printer for the upload. Delete print jobs from the Queue to clear enough storage space to upload the logs.
  9. Restart the printer and try again.

Cartridge Dispense Error

The printer displays Cartridge Dispense Error if it tries to dispense resin but nothing comes out of the cartridge. Usually, this means the cartridge is empty. Each cartridge contains and can reliably dispense one liter of resin. After the full liter dispenses, dispose of the cartridge and continue printing with a new cartridge.

If a cartridge is not empty but the printer is unable to dispense resin, an issue with the cartridge may be preventing resin from dispensing:

  1. Check that the cartridge vent cap is open.
  2. Check the inside of the vent cap to ensure the vent is not blocked.
  3. Consider loosening the vent cap.
  4. Check the bite valve on the underside of the cartridge to make sure it opens when squeezed.

Cartridge Low

The printer checks the estimated amount of resin in the cartridge before starting each print. If the estimated resin supply isn’t enough to complete the part, the printer displays Cartridge Low.

Tap Ignore on the touchscreen to continue the print. However, if the printer runs out of resin in the middle of a print, it pauses until a new cartridge is inserted. Long print pauses can cause a horizontal line across printed parts. Consider swapping the low cartridge for a full cartridge before starting the print, or monitor the print closely and insert a new cartridge as soon as the current cartridge runs out of resin.


Resin Tank Overfilled

If the resin tank is overfilled, the printer will show this error. Use a syringe or small disposable cup to remove small amounts of resin, and pour it into a separate container. If the printer incorrectly warns of a resin tank overfill, check that the float can move freely and inspect the LevelSense board for damage.


Missing Resin Tank and Missing Cartridge Errors

If the printer does not detect an inserted tank or cartridge, check the ID chip on the resin tank or cartridge to ensure the chip is present and clean. A dirty or missing chip can prevent the printer from detecting the tank or cartridge.

Image
Resin cartridge chip location
Image
Resin tank chip location

Fully remove and reinsert the resin tank or cartridge. The top of an inserted cartridge should be flush with the rear of the printer. A fully-inserted resin tank locks into the tank carrier rails and will be flush against the back of the printer.


Resin Tank and Cartridge Warning

The printer checks the resin type in the tank and cartridge to ensure they match the current print job. If they do not match the resin type identified in the print job, the printer displays Resin Tank and Cartridge Warning and prompts you to insert a tank and cartridge that match the print job settings.

Resin Tank Warning

If the resin cartridge is inserted first, the printer displays Resin Tank Warning when the type of resin in the tank does not match the cartridge. Remove the resin tank and replace it with one that matches the inserted resin cartridge. If the resin tank is unused and clean but has been programmed with the incorrect resin type, tap Ignore to reprogram the tank’s resin type.

Cartridge Warning

If the resin tank is inserted first, the printer displays Cartridge Warning when the type of resin in the cartridge does not match the tank. Remove the cartridge and replace it with the type of resin that matches the tank.


Motors Jammed

Sensors track the printer’s motor movements. If a motor does not return to its original position in the right amount of time, the printer displays Motors Jammed.

Anything in the path of a moving part may prevent the motor from moving properly. Open the cover to inspect the build platform and Light Processing Unit (LPU). Remove obstructions, then remove and reinsert the build platform and resin tank.


Heater Error

The printer stops heating if it cannot reach the target temperature of 30 °C (86 °F) after 60 minutes. In a cold operating environment, the printer may require more than one heating cycle to reach the desired temperature. Restart the print to begin heating again. For more information, refer to the support article Maintaining resin temperature.


Error 147

This error indicates that the printer was unable to move the tensioner system. Usually caused by a software issue, this can be resolved by restarting the printer and ensuring the firmware is up to date. If you see this error message repeatedly, contact Formlabs Support or your authorized reseller.


Cartridge Worn Out

Each cartridge contains and can reliably dispense one liter of resin. After the full liter dispenses, dispose of the cartridge and continue printing with a new cartridge. Restart the print once the depleted cartridge has been replaced.


Resin Level Sensor Error

The LevelSense board is located directly behind the resin tank. It senses the position of a metal float in the resin tank to determine the amount of resin in the resin tank. The printer may display Resin Level Sensor Error if there is an issue with the float or the LevelSense board.

If the printer displays Resin Level Sensor Error, follow each step to see if that step resolves the error:

  1. Ensure that the printer is level.
  2. Inspect the resin tank:
    1. Remove the resin tank.
    2. Check that the float can move freely.
    3. Reinsert and push the tank all the way back. The touchscreen displays a confirmation message when the resin tank is properly seated.
  3. Inspect the LevelSense board:
    1. Remove the resin tank.
    2. Inspect the LevelSense board.
    3. Contact Formlabs Support or your authorized reseller if you see damage.
  4. Recalibrate the LevelSense board:
    1. Tap the wrench icon on the printer’s touchscreen.
    2. Tap Maintenance.
    3. Tap Resin Level Calibration.
    4. Follow the on-screen instructions:
      1. Tap Next to start the calibration process.
      2. Remove the resin tank from the printer (if one is inserted) and tap Next.
      3. Close the printer cover and tap Calibrate.
      4. Once the calibration process is complete, tap Done.
  5. If the printer still displays the error, try a different resin tank. If the error does not occur with a different tank, the problem may be with the resin tank.
  6. If the error happens with all resin tanks, contact Formlabs Support or your authorized reseller.

Mixer Check Failure

At the start of each print, the LPU housing pulls the tank mixer back and forth across the tank film several times. This motion mixes the resin in the tank while also checking for cured resin on the film and on the build platform. If the mixer encounters cured resin blocking its path, its magnets decouple from the magnets in the LPU housing and the printer pauses the print. This is the designed behavior of the mixer and is intended to protect the tank film and prevent further print failures. If the printer displays Mixer Check Failure, follow these steps:

  1. Remove the build platform and inspect it for cured resin or other debris.
  2. Remove the resin tank and place it in its case.
  3. Reseat the mixer.
  4. Using the tank tool, inspect the resin tank film for cured resin or other debris.If you find any cured resin, remove it using the tank tool.
  5. Reinsert the resin tank and build platform.
  6. Restart the print.

If the Resin Tank is New and Unused:

  1. Remove the resin cartridge from the printer.
  2. Unscrew and remove the vent cap at the top of the resin cartridge.
  3. Carefully pour a small amount of resin from the resin cartridge into the resin tank, lightly coating the flexible film.
  4. Replace the vent cap.
  5. Insert the resin cartridge into the printer.
  6. Restart the print.

NOTICE: Do not use the part removal tool, scraper, flush cutters, or any other metal tool to inspect the resin tank or remove cured resin from the tank. Such tools may damage the tank film, leading to failed prints and/or a resin spill.


Printer Tilted

Formlabs SLA printers operate best when perfectly level. The touchscreen prompts you to level the printer when necessary. Tap Settings > Printer Leveling on the touchscreen to view the current level status. Follow the touchscreen prompts and use the leveling tool to level the printer.


Reset While Printing

If power to the printer is interrupted during a print job, the printer does not resume the print job when it restarts. The touchscreen displays Reset While Printing. If the reset was unexpected, contact Formlabs Support or your authorized reseller.


Wi-Fi Errors

The printer displays specific error messages depending on the Wi-Fi access point’s response to the connection attempt. Refer to the support article Connecting to your printer to set up a connection via Wi-Fi, USB, or Ethernet. Always check with a network administrator to ensure that the wireless network is configured to allow the printer to connect. For a Windows operating system, follow Apple’s instructions to ensure that Bonjour is properly installed. This step is required to connect. PreForm must be connected to the same network as the printer for wireless uploading.

Invalid Network Key

The password was not entered correctly. Check the network password. Check with a network administrator to ensure that the wireless network is configured to allow the printer to connect.

Connection Failed

The printer failed to configure the wireless connection and could not connect to the network. Check with a network administrator to ensure that the wireless network is configured to allow the printer to connect.


Factory Reset Instructions for Form 3/3B

On some occasions, a factory reset may correct unusual printer behavior. Unusual behavior may include Unknown Error messages, incomplete firmware updates, an unresponsive touchscreen, or trouble connecting to PreForm. A factory reset erases custom settings, including prints saved in the Queue and network connections.

NOTICE: A factory reset erases all print job information, custom settings, and diagnostic logs. Upload diagnostic logs before performing a factory reset.

  1. Unplug the printer.
  2. Reconnect the printer power cable.
  3. When the Formlabs logo appears, push and hold the reset button located underneath the USB port in the rear of the printer until Resetting to factory defaults appears on the touchscreen. You may need to use a paperclip or other small tool to push the reset button.
  4. Release the button.
  5. The touchscreen displays Factory reset complete before initializing the printer.
Image
Factory reset button location

Factory Reset Instructions for Form 3L/3BL

On some occasions, a factory reset may correct unusual printer behavior. Unusual behavior may include Unknown Error messages, incomplete firmware updates, an unresponsive touchscreen, or trouble connecting to PreForm. A factory reset erases custom settings, including prints saved in the Queue and network connections.

NOTICE: A factory reset erases all print job information, custom settings, and diagnostic logs. Upload diagnostic logs before performing a factory reset.

  1. Unplug the printer.
  2. Reconnect the printer power cable.
  3. When the Formlabs logo appears, push and hold the reset button located underneath the USB port in the rear of the printer until Resetting to factory defaults appears on the touchscreen. You may need to use a paperclip or other small tool to push the reset button.
  4. Release the button.
  5. The touchscreen displays Factory reset complete before initializing the printer.
Image
Factory reset button location
Categories
3D Printing

Removing and Post Processing Formlabs Prints

General Overview

For Formlabs SLA printers, finishing usually includes the following steps:


Removing Parts from the Printer


Secure the Build Platform on the Jig

Place the build platform on the jig included in the printer’s finish kit.


Remove Parts from the Build Platform

To release parts from the build platform, slide a removal tool under the angled edge of the base. Depending on resin type and the geometry of each part, some parts may be easier to remove from the build platform than others.

Tools used to remove parts will scratch the metal surface of the build platform. Scratches are normal and improve part adherence during the initial layers of printing.


Washing, Soaking, and Moving Parts in Solvent

Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or tripropylene glycol monomethyl ether (TPM) dissolve liquid resin, making them effective for washing parts printed on Formlabs SLA printers. Two factors—simultaneously soaking and moving parts in solvent—work together to remove the thin layer of liquid resin from the surface of printed parts.

Whether using the Form Wash, Form Wash L, or another washing method, such as the Finish Kit, always consult the support article Form Wash time settings as the primary source of information for up-to-date wash times.


Move Parts In Solvent

Directions for Form 2 and Form 3/3B

Open the first rinse bucket and place the parts in the solvent bath. Use the rinse basket to shake the parts for 30 seconds. This removes liquid resin from the exterior surfaces.

Directions for the Form 3L and Form 3BL


Soak Parts in Solvent

Close the rinse bucket lid and let the parts soak for approximately half the total recommended time.

An easy printable guide for recommended times can be found here.


Repeat with a Second Rinse

Directions for the Form 2 and Form 3/3B

Move the parts to the second rinse bucket, then repeat the movement step, and soak the parts for the remaining time.

Directions for the Form 3L and Form 3BL

Move the parts to the second rinse bucket, then repeat the movement step, and soak the parts for the remaining time.


Drying Printed Pieces

Always let prints fully dry (whether they have been washed in IPA, TPM, or water) before post-curing or post-processing. Forced air, such as a fan or clean compressed air may dry parts more quickly.

For volatile solvents such as IPA, allow parts to dry for at least 30 minutes after washing to allow the solvent to fully evaporate from part surfaces. Ensure appropriate ventilation while the solvent evaporates.

For solvents that do not readily evaporate, such as TPM, let parts drip dry thoroughly and then rinse in water or IPA until all remaining TPM has dissolved.


Cleaning the Build Platform

Always scrape cured resin off the build platform before reusing it. If the next print uses the same type of resin, there is no need to remove liquid resin. Replace the build platform in the printer and start the next print.

If you are switching resin types, or if you do not plan to reuse the build platform right away, clean the build platform with IPA and paper towels to thoroughly remove liquid resin from the build surface and edges. Liquid resin cures in ambient light, and resin left on the surface of a build platform renders it unusable.


Post-Curing Pieces

Post-curing is optional for standard resins. Other resin types require post-curing to achieve their optical-mechanical properties.

Whether using the Form Cure, Form Cure L, or another post-curing solution, always consult the support article Form Cure time and temperature settings as the primary source of information for up-to-date post-cure settings.


Removing Supports

Formlabs recommends removing supports after post-curing, since parts may warp under exposure to light and heat without structural support.

Use the flush cutters included in the finish kit to carefully cut the supports attached to the parts. You may also use a scalpel or hobby knife to remove supports.

For parts with complex or delicate geometries, refer to the support article on advanced support removal.


Sanding, Priming, and Painting Parts (Optional)

After removing supports, remove support marks by dry sanding or wet sanding. Depending on the part’s application and desired finish, further post-processing steps may include priming and painting prints.

Categories
3D Printing

Formlabs Preform Overview

General Overview

Preform is the software provided by Formlabs that will convert your model file into machine directions to create your print. These machine instructions are produced automatically, based upon user configurable options. This page will go over the basics of setting up your machine settings, changing basic variables for print quality, and ensure successful prints using Formlabs products. More detailed guides and forms regarding post processes will be linked out to our OEM’s continually updated recommendations.


Download and Install

To install PreForm on your computer to use with a Fuse 1 printer:

  1. Download Preform.
  2. Click the Download button for your computer’s operating system. An EXE or DMG file downloads.
  3. Open your Downloads folder.
  4. Double-click the file named Preform_setup to begin installing PreForm. A setup window opens.
  5. Follow the prompts to finish installing.

Selecting a Printer in PreForm

When opening PreForm for the first time, a Virtual Printer is selected by default. Selecting a printer in PreForm allows you to send a new print job to the printer or to view the status of a current print job. To select a printer in PreForm:

  1. Click the < button. The Job Info dialog box opens.
  2. Click the printer name. The Job Setup window opens.
  3. Click the Select Printer arrow. The Printer List window opens.
  4. Click the name of a Printer you wish to select. The Printer Details window opens.
  5. Click Select. The Job Setup window opens.
  6. Click Apply. The selected Printer appears in the Job Info dialog box.

Update Firmware

Download the latest firmware version for your Formlabs SLA printer with PreForm, then upload and install the firmware file on the printer. Review the firmware release notes to learn more about the improvements that come with each version’s release.

  1. Open PreForm.
  2. Connect the printer to the computer via USB or wire the printer to an Ethernet network.
  3. Click the < button. The Job Info dialog box opens.
  4. Click the printer name. The Job Setup window opens.
  5. Click the Select Printer arrow. The Printer List window opens.
  6. Click on the name of a printer you wish to select. The Printer Details window opens.
  7. Click Update in the upper-right corner of the Printer Details window. The Firmware Update window opens.
  8. Follow the on-screen instructions to download the latest firmware and then upload the file to the printer. To upload firmware, the printer must be connected to the computer via USB or the printer must be wired to an Ethernet network.
  9. The printer may automatically recognize you have sent a firmware update. Tap Continue on the printer’s touchscreen to finish the installation.
  10. If you are not prompted to Continue, you must continue the firmware update manually:
    1. On the touch screen, tap Settings > System > Firmware Update.
  11. After the firmware update installs, confirm the system restart on the touchscreen or wait 30 seconds for an automatic restart.

Matching Materials in PreForm to the Inserted Resin Tank and Cartridge

Send a print job to the printer and confirm the print job on your printer’s touchscreen. The printer indicates whether the resin tank and cartridge currently inserted match the print job settings, and prompts you to change materials, if necessary. To change the materials selected in PreForm to the resin tank and cartridge currently inserted in your printer:

  1. Click the < button. The Job Info dialog box opens.
  2. Click the printer name. The Job Setup window opens.
  3. Click the Select Printer arrow. The Printer List window opens.
  4. Click the name of a Printer you wish to select. The Printer Details window opens.
  5. Click Select. The Job Setup window opens.
  6. Click the Resin field. A dropdown appears.
  7. Select Current Printer Settings from the dropdown. The material matches what is currently inserted in the printer.

Loading a Model in PreForm

To open a single OBJ or STL file or multiple files to print on the same build platform:

  1. Open PreForm.
  2. In the menu bar, click File > Open. The Open File window appears.
  3. Select at least one file.
    • To select multiple models, press and hold the command key on macOS or the CTRL key on Windows.
  4. Click Open. The selected models appear in PreForm.

Moving and Rotating a Model in PreForm

Choosing which face of a model should point toward the build platform, and which face should point away, is a decision that affects more than just printability. The face that acts as a base is usually impacted the most by support marks that result in a rough surface finish. If preserving the fine details on your model is important, try orienting the model with that face away from the build platform.

Rotating a Model

Angle your model along the X, Y, and Z axes to orient it around the build platform.

  1. Select the model. Manipulators are overlaid on the model.
  2. Click Orientation. A dialogue box opens.
  3. To rotate:
    • Click-and-drag along the sphere manipulator to spin the model freely.
    • Click-and-drag on a ring to move the model along that axis.
    • Enter a specific angle into an axis field.
    • Click on an axis arrow.
    • Hover the pointer over an axis field and use the scroll wheel

Moving a model

Move a model to a different location on the build platform to create space for other parts or to prolong the life of a tank.

  1. Select the model. Manipulators are overlaid on the model.
  2. To move:
    • Click-and-drag the Move manipulator to a new location on the build platform.
    • Click-and-drag the selected model to a new location on the build platform.

Positioning by Base

Layer thickness affects both the speed and quality of a print. Thicker layers print faster but sacrifices detail. Thinner layers print more slowly but are able to capture finer details. Most materials have a variety of layer thickness settings to choose from, so there’s always an option to suit your needs.

  1. Select the model. Manipulators are overlaid on the model.
  2. Click Orientation. A dialogue box opens.
  3. Click Select Base…. A window opens and the pointer appears as an orange arrow.
  4. Click a face of the model to point it toward the build platform.
  5. Click Done. The window closes.

Adjusting Layer Thickness in PreForm

Selecting Resin and Layer Thickness

Preserve the fine details of your model by facing the smaller features away from the build platform. To choose which side faces the build platform:

Layer Thickness is measured in fractions of a millimeter, often given in microns. 1 micron (µm) is equal to 0.001 of a millimeter (mm). To provide a sense of scale, 100 microns is the same thickness as a sheet of paper or a human hair. To set the Layer Thickness:

  1. Click the < button. The Job Info dialog box opens.
  2. Click the printer name. The Job Setup window opens.
  3. Click the Resin field to select a material from the dropdown.
  4. Click the Version field to select a version from the dropdown.
  5. Drag the Layer Thickness slider to the desired thickness.
  6. Click Apply. The selected material and layer thickness settings are applied.

NOTE: Support will be generated differently depending upon material and layer thickness.

Effect of Layer Thickness On Printed Parts

Effect of layer thickness on parts with supports.
Effect of layer thickness on parts without supports.


Selecting Adaptive Layer Thickness

Adaptive layer thickness is a setting that balances speed and quality to give you the best of both worlds. When PreForm detects curves, slants, and other features that would be negatively impacted by thicker layers, it processes these features into thinner slices. When PreForm detects walls, columns, and other verticals that can be printed in a single, large piece it automatically increases the layer thickness. PreForm transitions smoothly from one layer setting to another so there are no sudden jumps in thickness.

Layer Thickness is set to Fixed by default. Selecting the Adaptive setting automatically changes the layer thickness throughout a print job based on the geometry between layers. To switch to Adaptive layer thickness:

  1. Click the < button. The Job Info dialog box opens.
  2. Click the printer name. The Job Setup window opens.
  3. Click the Resin field to select a material from the dropdown.
  4. Click the Version field to select a version from the dropdown. A Fixed and Adaptive toggle appears.
  5. Click Adaptive. The Adaptive Layer Thickness notification appears.
  6. Click Apply. The selected material and layer thickness settings are applied.

NOTE: Support will be generated differently depending upon material and layer thickness.


One-Click Print Options

When orienting and supporting a model, keep in mind that a model has several correct orientations. Clicking One-Click Print shifts models between these different orientations and supports them accordingly. To orient and support a model with One-Click Print in PreForm:

  1. Click the button. The Job Info dialog box opens.
  2. Click the name of a Printer. The Job Setup window opens.
  3. Click the Resin field to select a material from the dropdown.
  4. Click the Version field to select a version from the dropdown.
  5. Drag the Layer Thickness slider to the desired thickness.
  6. Click Apply. The selected material and layer thickness settings are applied.
  7. Click the One-Click Print icon. The One-Click Print dialog box opens.
  8. Click Set up your print. The model is oriented and supported, then the Print window opens.
  9. Click the Select Printer arrow. The Printer List window opens.
  10. Click the name of a Printer. The Printer Details window opens.
  11. Click Select. The Print window opens.
  12. Click the Job Name field. Enter a new name or view the existing name.
  13. Click Upload Job. The model is sent to the printer.

Generating Support Structures

Supports are the cornerstone of a successful SLA print—they hold the model in place throughout the entire printing process. Support structures reinforce overhangs and other delicate features. Adding more supports increases the likelihood of print success, but also increases the amount of post-processing work. Support structures can be generated automatically or adjusted manually per model.

Automatically Generating Support Structures

  1. Open models in PreForm.
  2. Click Supports. A dialog box opens.
  3. Click Auto-Generate All. Supports are added to all models on the build platform.

Automatically Generating Support Structures

If some parts of a model are highlighted in red as undersupported, add individual supports:

  1. Select the model in PreForm. Manipulators are overlaid on the model.
  2. Click Supports. A dialog box opens.
  3. Click Edit…. The model turns gray and supports are shown as white touchpoints.
  4. Click on the undersupported areas in red to add a support. White touchpoints appear where clicked.
  5. Click Apply. Supports are regenerated and remaining undersupported areas are highlighted in red.
  6. Repeat until model is fully supported.

Saving Support Changes

After supporting your model for maximum printability, save your work as a FORM file to keep changes to the support settings on your model.


To upload a print job from PreForm to a printer:

  1. Click the orange Start a print icon in the left toolbar. The Print window opens.
  2. Click the Select Printer arrow to select a printer. The Printer List window opens.
  3. Click the Select Printer checkmark next to a printer’s serial name.
  4. Click Select. The Print window reopens.
  5. Enter or update the Job Name.
  6. Click Upload Job. The model is sent to the printer.

If the orange Upload Job button is unavailable in PreForm:

  1. Verify that there are no other instances of PreForm open on your computer.
  2. Check that the printer is connected to the same network as the computer running PreForm.
  3. If the computer is not connected to the same network, save any files in progress and close PreForm.
  4. Connect the computer to the same network the printer is on, start PreForm, and connect to the printer.
Categories
3D Printing

Formlabs Support Resources