THE CLAM IN 3D

To avoid annoying the rest of the group, they created a working group where they discuss and share their problems to find solutions—and God knows that when it comes to this new technology, the topic is endless.

Printers have evolved to offer ever-faster print speeds, but 3D printing in model making is limited by filaments that, on the contrary, require slow speeds to allow the specific plastic to expand and thus reduce its density by trapping air: PLA Light filaments.

Model making is an excellent way to learn the ins and outs of print settings and their effects: print flow, speed, cooling, shrinkage, stringing… etc.

But real-world testing dampens enthusiasm somewhat regarding the weight of the models, their sturdiness, and their resistance to heat and sunlight—since sunlight doesn’t treat the color well.

Still, the joy of printing models from digital files available online is truly fascinating and well worth a few enjoyable moments out in the field.

Thierry Ruef