USA Glossary and Reference Guide to 3D Printing Terminology and Concepts

Glossary of 3D Printing Terms [46]

C CAD (Computer Aided Design) CAD refers to the use of computer software to design 2D and 3D objects for various applications, including 3D printing. CAD tools allow designers to create precise digital models of objects by defining dimensions, shapes, and geometries. These designs are often saved in file formats like STL or OBJ, which can be imported into slicer software to prepare them for printing. CAD software enables complex, customizable designs that are not feasible with traditional manufacturing. Popular CAD programs include SolidWorks, Fusion 360, and TinkerCAD. In 3D printing, CAD is essential for turning creative ideas into printable objects, whether for prototyping, engineering, or artistic purposes.
Calibration Cube A calibration cube is a small, cube-shaped test print used to assess and fine-tune a 3D printer’s accuracy. It typically includes dimensional markers (e.g., 20x20x20 mm) and is printed to test parameters such as X, Y, and Z-axis alignment, extrusion rates, and layer height. Any deviations in the printed cube’s dimensions can indicate issues like over-extrusion, axis misalignment, or belt tension problems. Regularly printing calibration cubes helps ensure precise, high-quality prints.
Calibration Pattern A calibration pattern is a test print designed to evaluate and fine-tune specific aspects of a 3D printer's performance, such as extrusion, bed leveling, or dimensional accuracy. Common patterns include temperature towers, retraction tests, and flow rate tests. These patterns help users identify the optimal settings for their printer and filament, reducing trial-and-error adjustments. Regular use of calibration patterns ensures consistent print quality and helps prevent common issues like stringing, warping, or over-extrusion.
Carbon Composite Carbon composite materials are advanced 3D printing filaments that combine a polymer base, like nylon or PETG, with carbon fiber reinforcement. These composites offer exceptional strength, rigidity, and heat resistance, making them suitable for demanding applications in aerospace, automotive, and robotics. However, their abrasive nature requires the use of hardened steel or ruby nozzles to prevent wear. Carbon composite materials are ideal for lightweight, high-performance parts.
Carbon Fiber Filament Carbon fiber filament is a composite material made by infusing carbon fiber particles into a base polymer like PLA, PETG, or nylon. This filament is known for its high strength, rigidity, and lightweight properties, making it ideal for engineering applications. However, its abrasive nature requires hardened nozzles to prevent wear. Carbon fiber filament is commonly used for creating parts that demand mechanical durability and low weight, such as drone frames or automotive components.
Casting Mold Printing Casting mold printing involves using 3D printing to create molds that are later used for casting materials like metal, silicone, or concrete. This technique is widely used in industries such as jewelry making, aerospace, and manufacturing. The molds are designed using CAD software and printed in materials like PLA or resin, which can withstand the casting process or be sacrificed during it. For example, in lost-wax casting, 3D-printed molds are burned out to create precise cavities for molten metal. This method allows for intricate designs, faster production, and reduced costs compared to traditional mold-making techniques. Post-processing, such as sanding or polishing, may be required to ensure the mold's surface quality.
Chain Printing Chain printing is a technique used to produce multiple connected objects in a single print, such as links in a chain or interlocking parts. This approach reduces post-print assembly and ensures consistent spacing and alignment between parts. Chain printing is popular for creating flexible structures, wearable designs, or prototypes with movable joints. Advanced slicers and CAD software often include tools to design and optimize chain printing layouts. Careful consideration of support placement and print orientation is essential to ensure the chain’s functionality.
Chaining Models Chaining models refers to arranging multiple objects in a connected sequence on the build plate, often used for batch printing or creating articulated designs like chains or bracelets. This technique reduces the need for manual assembly and improves print efficiency. Slicer software can help users optimize spacing, orientation, and supports for chained models, ensuring they print successfully without interference. Chaining is especially useful for printing flexible or interlocking components.
Chamber Temperature Chamber temperature refers to the controlled environment inside a 3D printer’s enclosure, which helps regulate the print area’s ambient heat. Heated chambers are particularly useful for materials like ABS, nylon, or polycarbonate, which require stable temperatures to prevent warping or delamination. Maintaining consistent chamber temperature ensures better layer adhesion, dimensional accuracy, and print quality. Advanced printers often feature active heating systems for precise control over the chamber’s temperature.
Chemical Resistance Chemical resistance is the ability of a 3D-printed material to withstand exposure to chemicals, such as acids, solvents, or oils, without degrading or losing its structural integrity. It is a crucial property for applications in industrial settings, laboratories, or environments where printed parts come into contact with harsh substances. Materials like nylon, polycarbonate, and PETG are known for their chemical resistance, while others like PLA are more susceptible to degradation. To enhance resistance, certain materials can be coated with chemical-resistant finishes or printed using composite filaments infused with protective additives. Chemical resistance testing ensures that parts perform reliably under demanding conditions.
Circular Layering Circular layering is a slicing strategy optimized for printing cylindrical or rounded objects. This technique ensures smooth, consistent layers by evenly distributing extrusion paths around the model's circumference. Circular layering reduces visible layer lines and improves the structural integrity of rounded designs, such as pipes, wheels, or vases. Proper calibration of extrusion and cooling settings enhances the quality of circular prints, especially for objects requiring aesthetic appeal or high strength.
Circular Print Bed A circular print bed is a round build plate commonly found in delta-style 3D printers. The circular shape allows for efficient motion in the printer's triangular arm system. While the shape limits the build area compared to rectangular beds, it enables faster, more precise movements. Circular print beds are often paired with magnetic or flexible surfaces for easy print removal.
Cleaning Filament Cleaning filament is a specialized material used to remove debris, residue, or clogs from a 3D printer's nozzle and hot end. It is non-abrasive and designed to flush out contaminants without damaging the printer. Cleaning filament is typically used during filament changes or as part of routine maintenance to prevent extrusion issues. Regular use ensures consistent performance and prolongs the life of the nozzle.
Clogging Clogging occurs when the nozzle of a 3D printer becomes obstructed, preventing material from extruding properly. It is a common issue caused by factors such as dirt in the filament, inconsistent material diameter, improper temperature settings, or leftover residue from previous prints. Clogging often leads to under-extrusion or a complete halt in material flow, affecting the print’s quality. To resolve clogs, users typically need to clean the nozzle using specialized tools, a cold pull technique, or by disassembling and clearing the hot end. Preventative measures, like using high-quality filament and regularly cleaning the nozzle, can reduce the risk of clogging.
Closed-Loop Control Closed-loop control is a feedback mechanism in advanced 3D printers that monitors and adjusts motor movements in real time to ensure accuracy. Unlike open-loop systems, which rely solely on predefined instructions, closed-loop systems use sensors to detect errors like missed steps or misalignment. This technology improves precision, reduces artifacts, and enhances reliability, especially in high-speed or large-scale printing. Closed-loop control is often found in professional or industrial-grade 3D printers.
Closed-Loop Filament Recycling Closed-loop filament recycling is an eco-friendly approach to 3D printing that involves reprocessing waste prints or failed parts into reusable filament. Specialized filament recyclers grind, melt, and extrude plastic scraps into new spools of filament, reducing material waste and costs. This method is particularly effective for commonly used materials like PLA or ABS. While recycled filament may exhibit slight variations in quality or consistency, it is suitable for prototyping or non-critical applications. Closed-loop recycling promotes sustainability and aligns with the growing demand for environmentally conscious manufacturing practices.
Coasting Coasting is a slicer setting that stops filament extrusion slightly before the end of a print path. This technique reduces pressure in the nozzle, preventing oozing and blobs on the surface of the print. Coasting is particularly effective for minimizing imperfections in materials prone to stringing, such as PETG or TPU. Properly configuring coasting settings improves surface finish and reduces post-processing requirements, especially in detailed models.
Color Change Color change in 3D printing involves switching filament colors during a print to create multi-colored objects. This can be achieved manually by pausing the print and replacing the filament or automatically with a multi-extruder or single-nozzle color-mixing printer. Slicer software often includes tools for planning color changes at specific layers, allowing users to add text, logos, or decorative elements to their models. Proper timing and clean filament transitions are essential for achieving seamless color changes.
Composite Filament Composite filament is a 3D printing material that combines a base polymer with other materials like carbon fiber, wood, or metal powders to enhance strength, aesthetics, or functionality. These filaments are popular for creating lightweight, rigid, or visually unique parts. Printing with composite filaments often requires hardened steel or ruby-tipped nozzles to prevent wear from abrasive particles. Common types include carbon fiber-reinforced PLA, wood-infused PLA, and metal-infused PLA.
Composite Materials Composite materials in 3D printing refer to filaments or resins that combine a base material with added fibers or particles to enhance specific properties. Common composites include PLA with carbon fiber, nylon with glass fiber, and filaments mixed with metal, wood, or ceramic particles. These materials offer improved strength, durability, or aesthetic qualities compared to standard materials. For example, carbon fiber composites provide high strength-to-weight ratios, while wood-based filaments mimic the appearance and texture of natural wood. However, composite materials often require specialized nozzles, such as hardened steel, to avoid wear and tear during printing. They are popular in industrial, engineering, and artistic applications.
Composite Nozzle A composite nozzle is a specialized nozzle designed to handle abrasive materials, such as carbon fiber, glass fiber, or metal-infused filaments. These nozzles are made from wear-resistant materials like hardened steel, ruby, or tungsten carbide, which maintain their precision even after prolonged use with abrasive filaments. While more expensive than standard brass nozzles, composite nozzles are essential for achieving consistent extrusion and high-quality prints when working with advanced materials. They are a must-have for users who frequently print engineering-grade or reinforced filaments.
Compression Strength Compression strength is a measure of how much force a 3D-printed object can withstand when subjected to compressive loads. It is a critical factor for structural applications where printed parts are used to bear weight or resist deformation under pressure. Factors influencing compression strength include material choice, infill density, layer adhesion, and print orientation. Materials like ABS and PETG generally offer higher compression strength compared to PLA. Designs with optimized infill patterns, such as honeycomb or gyroid structures, can enhance compression resistance while minimizing material usage. Understanding and testing compression strength is vital for applications in engineering, construction, and functional prototyping.
Contamination Contamination in 3D printing refers to the presence of unwanted particles, debris, or materials that can disrupt the printing process. Common sources include dust, filament residue, or mixing incompatible materials in the same nozzle. Contamination can lead to issues like clogging, under-extrusion, or weakened prints. To prevent contamination, users should store filament in sealed containers, regularly clean the nozzle and extruder, and purge the hot end when switching between different filament types. Maintaining a clean printer environment ensures consistent performance and high-quality prints.
Continuous Build Volume Continuous build volume refers to the ability of certain 3D printers to produce objects that exceed the physical size of their build plates. This is achieved through systems like conveyor belts or rolling platforms that move the printed object as it progresses. Continuous build volume is ideal for long parts, such as architectural beams or industrial components, and for batch printing, where multiple objects are printed sequentially. This capability significantly expands the range of printable designs and is particularly useful for applications that demand scalability. Printers with continuous build volume are typically used in industrial settings, as they provide unmatched efficiency and versatility.
Continuous Fiber Printing Continuous fiber printing is a specialized 3D printing process that embeds continuous strands of fibers, such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, or fiberglass, into a base polymer. This technique significantly enhances the strength, stiffness, and durability of printed parts, making it ideal for industrial and engineering applications. Printers capable of continuous fiber printing have dual extrusion systems: one for the base polymer and another for the reinforcing fibers. The result is lightweight, high-performance parts that can replace traditionally machined components in industries like aerospace, automotive, and robotics.
Contour Printing Contour printing is a slicing strategy that prioritizes printing the outer edges (contours) of a model before filling the interior. This approach enhances the surface quality and ensures dimensional accuracy. Contour settings, such as the number of perimeter walls or extrusion width, can be adjusted in slicer software. Contour printing is commonly used for models where surface aesthetics are critical, such as figurines or display objects.
Cooling Calibration Cooling calibration is the process of fine-tuning a 3D printer’s cooling system to optimize print quality. This involves adjusting fan speeds, layer cooling times, and airflow direction for specific materials and designs. Proper cooling calibration prevents defects like sagging, stringing, or warping while ensuring strong layer adhesion. Calibration is particularly important for models with intricate features, overhangs, or bridges. Many slicers offer cooling profiles tailored to different materials, making the process easier for users to achieve high-quality results.
Cooling Fan A cooling fan is a critical component in many 3D printers, responsible for improving print quality by controlling the cooling process of the extruded material. It directs airflow onto the printed layers immediately after extrusion, helping the material solidify and preventing deformation or sagging, especially in overhangs and small details. Cooling fans are commonly used in FDM printers and can have adjustable speed settings depending on the material being printed. For example, PLA benefits from active cooling, while ABS typically requires less airflow to avoid warping. Proper fan settings are essential for achieving sharp details, smooth surfaces, and overall high-quality prints.
Cooling Optimization Cooling optimization refers to adjusting the cooling process in 3D printing to enhance the quality of prints. This includes managing fan speed, layer cooling time, and airflow direction. Proper cooling is crucial for maintaining sharp details, reducing stringing, and ensuring strong layer adhesion. Materials like PLA benefit from aggressive cooling, while others like ABS require slower cooling to avoid warping. Advanced slicer tools often allow users to customize cooling settings for specific layers or geometries, improving overall print performance.
Cooling Shroud A cooling shroud is a custom or factory-designed duct that directs airflow from a cooling fan onto specific areas of the print, such as overhangs, bridges, or small details. It improves cooling efficiency and ensures consistent airflow across the model. Cooling shrouds are particularly beneficial for materials like PLA, which require rapid cooling to maintain sharp details. Many printers come with built-in shrouds, but custom designs are often 3D-printed to enhance performance. Properly installed and maintained cooling shrouds contribute to higher-quality prints by minimizing stringing, warping, and surface imperfections.
Cooling Time Cooling time refers to the duration during which extruded filament solidifies before the next layer is applied. Proper cooling time is critical for achieving smooth surfaces, sharp details, and strong layer adhesion. Materials like PLA benefit from rapid cooling, while others, such as ABS, require slower cooling to avoid warping or cracks. Adjusting print speed, fan settings, and layer heights can help manage cooling time for optimal results.
Cooling Tower A cooling tower is a small auxiliary structure created in slicer software to enhance the cooling process during 3D printing, especially for models with intricate or delicate features. It is commonly used when printing tall, narrow parts or areas with minimal surface area per layer. Without proper cooling, layers may not solidify fully before the next layer is deposited, resulting in deformities, smudging, or poor adhesion. The cooling tower acts as a "pause point," where the printer can temporarily move the nozzle away from the main object, allowing the previously printed layer to cool adequately. This technique is particularly useful for materials like PLA that rely heavily on cooling to maintain dimensional accuracy. Cooling towers are usually placed near the model and are removed after the print is complete, ensuring the main object maintains its intended structure and quality. Advanced slicer software often lets users customize the tower's size, shape, and placement to optimize results.
Core Design Core design in 3D printing refers to the internal structure of a model, which determines its strength, weight, and material usage. Common core designs include honeycomb, gyroid, and rectangular patterns, which are generated during the slicing process to fill the model’s interior. Optimizing core design balances structural integrity with efficiency, ensuring that the part is strong enough for its intended application without excessive material consumption. Core design is especially important in engineering and manufacturing, where weight reduction and durability are critical.
Core-Shell Printing Core-shell printing is an advanced 3D printing technique that creates objects with a solid or structured inner core and a different material or texture as the outer shell. This method is commonly used for multi-material printing or to enhance specific properties of a part. For instance, the core can provide strength and rigidity, while the shell offers flexibility, aesthetics, or resistance to environmental factors. Core-shell printing requires dual-extrusion printers or specialized equipment capable of handling multiple materials. This approach is widely used in the automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods industries to achieve lightweight, functional, and visually appealing designs.
CoreXY Mechanism The CoreXY mechanism is a motion system used in some 3D printers, where the X and Y axes move independently using a system of belts and pulleys. This design reduces the weight of the print head, enabling faster and more precise movements. CoreXY printers are popular for their compact design, scalability, and ability to produce high-quality prints. Regular maintenance, such as belt tensioning, is essential for consistent performance.
Cracking Cracking is a defect in 3D printing where gaps or splits appear between layers, often caused by poor layer adhesion or rapid cooling. It is most common in high-temperature materials like ABS, where uneven cooling can cause shrinkage. Solutions include increasing the print temperature, using a heated enclosure, and slowing down cooling fans. Proper settings and material handling help minimize cracking and improve part strength.
Crash Detection Crash detection is a feature in advanced 3D printers that identifies collisions between the print head and the printed object or build plate. If a crash is detected, the printer pauses or adjusts its movements to avoid further damage. This feature is particularly useful for long prints or complex geometries where the likelihood of errors increases. Crash detection improves print reliability and minimizes material waste, ensuring that the printer can recover and continue the print without starting over.
Cross-Linking Cross-linking is a chemical process where polymer chains form bonds, increasing the material's strength, durability, and resistance to deformation. In 3D printing, cross-linking is often achieved during curing processes, such as in SLA or DLP printing, where UV light solidifies resin. Materials with high cross-linking properties are ideal for applications requiring mechanical strength or chemical resistance. This process enhances the performance of materials used in industries like automotive, aerospace, and healthcare.
Cross-Section A cross-section in 3D printing refers to a single horizontal slice of a 3D model, representing one layer of the object being printed. Cross-sections are analyzed and generated during the slicing process, where the model is divided into layers based on the selected layer height. Reviewing cross-sections helps users identify potential issues like gaps, overhangs, or unsupported areas. By optimizing the cross-sectional design, users can improve print strength, surface quality, and overall structural integrity.
Curing Curing is the process of hardening 3D-printed resin parts by exposing them to ultraviolet (UV) light or heat. This post-processing step is essential for SLA, DLP, and other resin-based prints to achieve their final mechanical and surface properties. Proper curing strengthens the material, enhances its durability, and removes any tackiness from the surface. Over-curing or under-curing can compromise the part's integrity, so using a dedicated curing station or following manufacturer recommendations ensures optimal results.
Curing Chamber A curing chamber is a device used for post-processing resin-based 3D prints by exposing them to controlled UV light and heat. This process strengthens the print, removes any remaining tackiness, and enhances its final mechanical and aesthetic properties. Curing chambers are particularly important for SLA and DLP prints, where proper curing ensures long-term durability and stability. Advanced curing chambers offer adjustable UV intensity, temperature control, and rotating platforms for even exposure. For users without dedicated chambers, DIY solutions like UV lamps or sunlight can be used, though results may vary. Proper curing is essential to maximize the performance of resin-printed parts.
Curling Curling is a common 3D printing issue where the edges of a print lift or curl upward, often caused by uneven cooling or poor bed adhesion. This defect is most noticeable in materials prone to warping, such as ABS or nylon. Solutions include using a heated bed, applying adhesion aids like glue or tape, and optimizing print settings. Proper temperature control and enclosure use help prevent curling and ensure dimensional accuracy.
Curved Layering Curved layering is a specialized slicing technique that allows for the creation of smoother, more organic surfaces by following the curvature of the model rather than adhering to traditional flat layer-by-layer deposition. This technique is particularly useful for aesthetic prints, such as sculptures or ergonomic designs, where visible layer lines are undesirable. Curved layering requires advanced slicer software capable of analyzing and generating curved toolpaths. While this method improves surface finish and reduces post-processing, it often requires more precise printer calibration and increased print times. Curved layering is gaining popularity as a way to achieve superior quality for high-end or artistic applications.
Custom G-code Custom G-code refers to user-modified or manually created instructions that control a 3D printer’s movements, temperatures, and extrusion settings. While most G-code is generated automatically by slicer software, custom G-code allows for advanced control over specific aspects of the printing process. Examples include adding unique start or end scripts, pausing the print at specific layers for filament changes, or creating multi-step calibration routines. Custom G-code is particularly useful for optimizing prints, troubleshooting, or achieving unique design effects. However, it requires a strong understanding of printer mechanics and syntax to avoid errors that could damage the printer or ruin the print.
Custom Supports Custom supports are manually designed or modified support structures tailored to a specific 3D model. Unlike automatically generated supports, custom supports are strategically placed to reduce material usage, improve print quality, or make removal easier. CAD or slicer tools, such as PrusaSlicer or Cura, allow users to add or modify supports as needed. Custom supports are especially useful for complex designs with delicate overhangs or internal features.
Customizable End Stops Customizable end stops are user-adjustable components in a 3D printer that define the limits of motion for the X, Y, and Z axes. These end stops ensure that the printer operates within its intended build volume and prevent overextension, which could damage the machine. Advanced printers often feature optical or magnetic end stops that can be repositioned for specific setups or modifications. Customizable end stops are particularly useful for users upgrading their printers with larger build plates or dual extruders. Properly configured end stops enhance precision, safety, and versatility in 3D printing.