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GrabCAD Print 3D Printing Procedure

This SOP outlines the steps for using GrabCAD Print software to manage 3D printing processes. It covers importing models, configuring print settings, slicing, and monitoring prints, ensuring consistent and high-quality results while promoting safe practices.
Conestoga College - SMART Centre
10/08/2024

GrabCAD Print 3D Printing Procedure

This SOP outlines the steps for using GrabCAD Print software to manage 3D printing processes. It covers importing models, configuring print settings, slicing, and monitoring prints, ensuring consistent and high-quality results while promoting safe practices.

    Click on the "Add" button or drag and drop the STL or CAD file into the workspace. Review the model for errors (e.g., non-manifold edges) and make necessary adjustments in CAD software if required.

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    Select the "Stratasys F170 - FDM Template" from the bottom right. Adjust the print settings: Layer height Infill density Print speed Material type Use the "Orientation" tool to position the model for optimal printing.

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    Click the "Slice" button to prepare the model for printing. Review the sliced preview to ensure all settings are correct. Export the G-code to a USB.

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    Send the print job to the printer via GrabCAD Print or insert the SD card into the printer. Monitor the printer during the initial phase to ensure the print starts correctly.

    For operating the printer see procedure below

    Fortus F170 3D Printer Procedure

    This SOP provides a clear process for safely and efficiently operating the Fortus F170 3D printer. Make sure to consult the full user manual for detailed maintenance and troubleshooting instructions.

    Hot Surfaces: Wear heat-resistant gloves when accessing the oven after printing. High Voltage: Risk of electric shock Moving Parts: Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry around the printer. Electrical Hazard: Ensure the printer is powered off and unplugged before performing maintenance.

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    Calibration

    Calibration ensures accurate printing and must be performed after head replacements, material changes, or if print quality issues arise.

    Automatic Tip Calibration: Performed automatically when the print heads are replaced or when prompted by the printer. Navigate to: Tools > Calibration > Tip Calibration > Automatic Tip Calibration. Press Start and follow the on-screen wizard. The system will automatically align the tips based on X, Y, and Z axis offsets, which is crucial for accurate part quality. Manual Tip Calibration: Recommended if higher accuracy is needed. Navigate to: Tools > Calibration > Tip Calibration > Manual Tip Calibration. Print a calibration part, then follow the steps to adjust the X, Y, and Z offsets manually. Note: Calibration values should be within ±0.002 inches for optimal results​

    The printer performs a Z Zero Calibration before each print job to ensure proper layer adhesion. No user input is required; the printer automatically calibrates the Z-axis by touching the print tip to the platen

    Material Loading

    Pull out the material bay located at the front of the printer. The left bay is for model material, and the right bay is for support material.

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    Insert the model and support spools, ensuring the filament is loaded properly into the drive mechanism.

    Follow on-screen instructions to load the filament. Wait for the material to load into the print head successfully.

    Printing

    Prepare the model file using GrabCAD Print software. Ensure the file is in the required format (CMB file).

    Load the file via USB or network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet). Access the file from the printer’s Queue page.

    Select the job and press Print on the Build page

    Monitor progress via the touchscreen or remotely through the GrabCAD Print app. The build status, material usage, and estimated time of completion will be displayed on the touchscreen

    Use the Pause button if you need to halt the print temporarily​ Use the Abort button to stop the print entirely, if needed.

    Post-Printing

    Once the build is complete, unlock and open the oven door​. Carefully remove the part from the platen.

    Clean accumulated purged material from the purge chute

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    Maintenance

    Clean the Oven Chamber: Remove build material debris from the bottom of the oven chamber using a vacuum. Failure to clean regularly can cause damage to the printer​ Clean the Platen: Clean the steel platen to ensure a smooth surface for substrate adhesion

    Inspect Tip Wipe Assemblies: Ensure that the tip wipes are clean and functioning. Replace if worn Check and Clean Exterior Surfaces: Wipe down the exterior surfaces and touchscreen display with a lint-free cloth​

Source: Conestoga College - SMART Centre (Community Member)

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