Changes

===Bridges===

===Bridges===

Bridges are overhanging sections that are supported by two or more model sections (e.g.: the middle section of an H is a bridge). It can be possible to print bridges without the use of supports, though one should take care to optimize their printer settings (lower temperature, higher fan speed, etc.) to limit drool.

Bridges are overhanging sections that are supported by two or more model sections (e.g.: the middle section of an H is a bridge). It can be possible to print bridges without the use of supports, though one should take care to optimize their printer settings (lower temperature, higher fan speed, etc.) to limit drool. Tuning a printer or adapting a slice for bridging demands a deep understanding of the fundamentals, and such, these will only be discussed in a more advanced 3D printing learning module.

===Removing Supports===

===Removing Supports===

===Machine Threads===

===Machine Threads===

Machine threads are probably the last thing you want to try to 3D print. The threads are way too small to come out well. Your threads will not look nice, and your screws will not thread in properly. If you really need a machine thread in your design (which is typical of designs), consider using a [https://www.mcmaster.com/heat-inserts heat insert] (single or double vane depending on the pull-out resistance you're looking for) or an [https://www.mcmaster.com/expanding-inserts-for-plastic expanding insert for plastic] (though expanding inserts might put too much pressure on the part and split it). Inserts might be available in the Makerstore but otherwise are available at the previously linked pages. Make sure to specify the holes in your designs as per the datasheet provided. This will greatly simplify the insertion process.

Machine threads are probably the last thing you want to try to 3D print. The threads are way too small to come out well. Your threads will not look nice, and your screws will not thread in properly. If you really need a machine thread in your design (which is typical of designs), consider using a [https://www.mcmaster.com/heat-inserts heat insert] (single or double vane depending on the pull-out resistance you're looking for) or an [https://www.mcmaster.com/expanding-inserts-for-plastic expanding insert for plastic] (though expanding inserts might put too much pressure on the part and split it). Inserts might be available in the Makerstore but otherwise are available at the previously linked pages. Make sure to specify the holes in your designs as per the datasheet provided. A design guide is provided in the CAD modeling for 3D printing pages for convenience. Adhering to this design guide will greatly simplify the insertion process.

===Electronics Enclosures===

===Electronics Enclosures===

We of course have all grow up surrounded by plastics as the main enclosure material. This is not wrong. When enclosing electronics, an insulating material is definitely recommended. However, an electronics enclosure completely 3D printed is a bit of a waste of time. The prints will take ages to complete, and chances are the 8 hours you are allowed for a print at the Makerspace will not be sufficient. Designers should notice that larger electronics enclosures often have large flat sections. Large flat sections are so much easier to laser cut than to 3D print. Consider cutting out large flat sections from your designs are replacing them with a laser cut panels. Otherwise, consider laser cutting most of your enclosure! See the [[Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner|Laser Cutting]] page for design resources.  

We of course have all grow up surrounded by plastics as the main enclosure material. This is not wrong. When enclosing electronics, an insulating material is definitely recommended. However, an electronics enclosure completely 3D printed is a bit of a waste of time. The prints will take ages to complete, and chances are the 8 hours you are allowed for a print at the Makerspace will not be sufficient. Designers should notice that larger electronics enclosures often have large flat sections. Large flat sections are so much easier to laser cut than to 3D print. Consider cutting out large flat sections from your designs are replacing them with a laser cut panels. Otherwise, consider laser cutting the whole enclosure! See the [[Digital technologies/Laser cutting/Laser cutting- Beginner|Laser Cutting]] page for design resources.  

==References==

==References==