Finally, Eduardo imports his models into Simplify3D, which he has found to be invaluable for several reasons. First, the huge files are sliced with relative ease whereas Eduardo previously hit roadblocks trying other slicing solutions. In addition, he depends on the support structures generated by Simplify3D to achieve high-quality models. To locate the supports properly, Eduardo starts with automatic support placement but then shifts to manual support editing to customize supports to fit the exact contours of the specific molecule. Finally, Eduardo spends a significant amount of time reviewing his models in the Preview Mode of Simplify3D. Using the ability to preview the exact toolpath of the printer, he fine tunes his print for maximum success and quality.
We don’t want to imply that this is a quick process. In fact, on the path to learning, Eduardo and his students are generating a boat-load of molecules, some successful and some not-so-much, but along the way, they are also generating a boat load of enthusiasm for scientific discovery. Kudos to them!
Built-up pressure inside the extruder
Blobs can occur when the built-up pressure inside the extruder nozzle pushes out more plastic than intended. If you notice that the blob is happening as the extruder finishes printing a perimeter, you may want to adjust a setting called “coasting.” This setting relieves some of the built-up pressure within the extruder by turning it off just before the end of the perimeter. Try turning this feature on and increasing the value until the blob no longer appears. Here are comprehensive instructions on how to adjust coasting.