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How are models made on a Dimension SST 768 3D Printer?
Functional 3D models are built from the bottom up, one layer at a time. Layers build upon each other to create a perfectly accurate 3D model.

What material is used?
The material is tough, durable acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic.

How are the layers created?
Layers are created through fused deposition molding (FDM). ABS plastic is fed into an extrusion head, heated to a semi-liquid state and accurately deposited in filament form to layers as fine as 0.007-inch (0.178 mm) thick.

Do I need to alter my 3D CAD files in order to prepare them for 3D printing?
The Dimension SST can work with your 3D CAD models just as they are. No modifications are required on your end. The Catalyst® EX software automatically imports STL files, orients the part, slices the file, generates support structures (if necessary), and creates a precise deposition path to build your ABS model.

How is the path for each layer created?
The software automatically plots a precise deposition path for the printer to follow.

What are the support structures and how do they work?
The support structures are temporary layers of material used in the creation of rapid prototypes on a 3D printer. It is used to fill voids and maintain support as necessary as the 3D model is being built.

What happens to the support structures after the model is completed?
After completion of the build, support structures are simply removed. An agitation system that utilizes hot water and a soap bath automatically washes away the support structures.

How can support structures be used to create moving parts?
Support structures can be inserted into the 3D model in places that would otherwise be empty space in a moving part, such as the spaces between gear teeth. When the support structure is dissolved away, what was once solid space connecting two parts is now empty, allowing movement of the two parts.

What are the benefits of ABS plastic?
Models made of ABS plastic are tough enough to be used as working parts. ABS parts can be sanded, milled, drilled, tapped, painted and even electro-plated. ABS prototypes provide a higher level of precision then models produced with photo chemicals, wax or other forms of 3D printing. Rapid prototypes of ABS plastic will be durable and accurate enough for pieces to actually snap or fit together. ABS allows you to build durable and functional prototypes that can withstand rigorous testing and won’t warp, shrink or absorb moisture.

What colors are available?
Colors include standard white, blue, yellow, black, red, green or steel gray colors. Custom colors also available.

How thick are the layers of extruded plastic?
Each layer is between .010 in. (.245 mm) or .013 in. (.33 mm.) of precisely deposited extruded ABS plastic and support material.

What size models can be created?
The maximum size of each build is 8 x 8 x 12 inches (203 x 203 x 305 mm). Larger pieces can be built in different layers, like the stories of a building or multi-layered cake.

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Source by Nathan C Young