HD2x Airwolf 3D Printer, 5 Steps to 3D Printing

Now that we have installed the software, this section will cover the main steps to printing.
1. DESIGN OR DOWNLOAD 3D MODEL: When doing this, Keep in mind the printing
orientation and the printing material(s) that you are going to use.
PROGRAMS: Sketchup, Solidworks, Rhinoceros, etc.
WEBSITES FOR 3D MODEL DOWNLOAD: Thingiverse, GrabCad
FILE FORMAT: .SKP, .SLDPRT, .3DM, etc.
2. CONVERT TO STL FILE TYPE: “Export” or “Save As” the 3D model into an STL file type.
Make sure to include the “.stl” file extension if it does not already have it. Some
software packages may require a plug-in to export as STL (i.e. Sketchup). The Dual
Head section of Cura will discuss how to export multiple STL files.
PROGRAMS: Sketchup, Solidworks, Rhinoceros, etc.
FILE FORMAT: .STL
3. CLEAN UP STL FILE (THIS STEP IS OPTIONAL): Cleaning up the STL file may be necessary after creating it. This will help the slicing engine create the GCODE.
If you skip this step and your file will not slice correctly, bring it into Netfabb for repair.
PROGRAMS: Netfabb, MeshLab
FILE FORMAT: .STL
4. SLICING THE 3D MODEL: Other than the design process, this is the most critical step in 3D printing. This is where you will apply print settings to your 3D model (i.e.
temperature, infill, layer height). It is very important to have the right settings. Each
setting is VERY dependent on the material.
PROGRAMS: Cura
FILE FORMAT: .STL and .INI
5. PRINT: Once the GCODE has been created by the slicing engine, the model can be printed using Repetier Host or from the micro SD card.