3D Printing


3D Print Questions

Why my 3D printer head (PH40) goes into Stand-By mode while working

The printers are going into standby and eventually shutting off because they are not receiving the correct signal from UCCNC that the machine is running. This is a very simple fix outlined below. 

1.) Define pin outs in UCCNC –> CONFIGURATION –> I/O SETUP. On the left hand side you have “Current hi/low”. Those two pins should read “16” and “1”.


2.) Define pin outs in UCCNC –> AXIS SETUP –> SPINDLE. Bottom Left you have “M3 relay pin”. Change those values to “0” and “0” and uncheck the “spindle relay output enabled” if it is checked.

What is the maximum project height I can 3D print?

The maximum print height is as follows:

STEPCRAFT 420, 600 and 840 – 120mm (4.72″)

STEPCRAFT 300 – 92mm (3.62″)

If you are using the STEPCRAFT Heated Bed, then you need to subtract 17mm (.67″) from the total print height.

Does the 3D Printer attachment fit all size machines?

Yes, it will work with all Version 1 and Version 2 STEPCRAFT CNC machines.

Do I need to buy additional software if I am only buying the Machine and 3D Printer attachment?

No, since UCCNC is included with the machine to run the G Code and the 3D Printer attachment comes with Repetier-Host slicing software.  Those two programs are all you need if you are just going to use your STEPCRAFT CNC for 3D printing.  If you are going to use the machine for cutting (spindle, laser, drag knife, etc.) then you need to have a CAM software program as well.

 

Can I use a 3D scanner to create 3D models to carve as well as 3D print?

Yes, models created with a 3D Scanner are typically saved in common 3D formats like a .stl.  These files can be imported into CAM programs like Vectric Cut 3D, Vectric V Carve and Deskproto where they can be assigned tool paths to carve the object out of a material.  This is commonly done with two tool paths: Roughing and Finishing, using a standard end mill and a ball nose end mill, respectively.

These files created from a 3D scanner can also be used for a 3D printer.

Here is a good article with a list of the best 3D scanners for 2017: https://pinshape.com/blog/the-11-best-3d-scanners-on-the-market/

STEPCRAFT also has a 3D Touch Probe which can be used for 3D scanning.  The following videos show how that works:

 

 

Are there any specific 3D Scanners that work best with STEPCRAFT, or any other CNC?

Honestly, No.  Most 3D scanners are capable of generating and saving files in common 3D file format.  That is really all that is required for STEPCRAFT.  The resolution will vary, though, from scanner to scanner and typically the more expensive they are, the better the scan resolution:

Here is a good article with a list of the top 11 3D scanners for 2017: https://pinshape.com/blog/the-11-best-3d-scanners-on-the-market/