Getting a 3D printer can be an exciting time, whether you are buying it to create prototypes for a product, or just to have some fun. Before you buy, however, it is important to do your homework to ensure you are getting the right one. Look at your budget, consider what you need it for, and check out things like Printlitic 3D printer reviews to get a sense of which options are the most popular.
While 3D printing is a great option, don’t overlook the versatility and efficiency of multifunction office copiers, because these all-in-one machines can print, scan, copy, and even fax, making them a cost-effective solution for businesses with diverse printing needs. Consider your specific needs and compare the features of multifunction printers and 3D printers to find the best option for you.
But in addition to the printer itself, there are also plenty of accessories that you can pick up that will drastically improve your printing experience. With that in mind, here are some of the best and most helpful 3D printing accessories that you should pick up.
Accessories to Take Your 3D Printing to the Next Level
An Adhesive
One of the first types of accessories you should consider picking up is some kind of adhesive. For the best results in your projects, you want the printed plastic to stick to the bed. If your printed object is moving or shifting around a lot while being made, it can lead to awful and inconsistent results.
Using an adhesive like a glue stick or hair spray can ensure that your 3D print stays in the right place and is able to be created without any issues. In addition to glues and other items to help with bed adhesion, you should also think about getting adhesives that allow you to glue different 3D-printed parts together, as well.
A Scraper or Removal Blade
Another tool that is important to have is a scraper or removal blade. This is a tool that removes your prints from the bed, without a lot of trouble. If you have used an adhesive, simply lifting the print off of the bed might not be easy, and could damage the print. Using this scraper ensures you have a clean lift and do no damage at all.
The 3D printer you have might have come with a tool to help remove the prints, but it likely won’t be very high-quality, so you may want to consider picking one up that is a little better. They come in many different varieties and shapes, so choose one that works best with the types of things you normally create.
Storage Container for Your Filaments
When you actually 3D print something, the filament is what it is created from. It is a thermoplastic that melts when heated and is what brings your prints from an idea to reality. It comes in many colors, is made of a few different materials, and comes in multiple finishes.
You will need a lot of this filament in order to consistently create prints, and as such you need a place to store it. There is no doubting the importance of storing filament and keeping it dry, so make sure that you pick up a quality storage container. Filament needs to remain in a moisture-free environment to keep it in good shape, and it should be kept away from dust, dirt, and other debris.
A Tool To Clean the Nozzle
3D printing involves pushing the filament through a nozzle as it moves to create your print. While this nozzle usually works fine and without a problem, there are chances where it could cause issues. The nozzle can get clogged (fully or partially), which can lead to printing issues and inconsistencies. Trying to unclog it isn’t always easy and can stop your project in its tracks.
To combat these issues and keep the nozzle clean, you need to pick up some tools. Things like a heated needle and/or a wire brush can both be used to remove debris from the interior and exterior areas of the nozzle, to keep it clear and ready to work as normal.
Pliers
They come in many shapes and sizes, so you can choose whatever you prefer based on the printer you have. In addition to pliers, smaller tweezers can also play a similar role and will help you keep debris and foreign objects away from your printer, with more precision than pliers.
Carving Tools
While 3D printers are great tools capable of creating some truly stunning prints, many of them will need a bit of extra work to get that polished look. Having a set of carving tools allows you to go in and smooth out the corners or other areas of your product, and remove areas where there is simply too much filament. They can also help reduce sharp edges, and ensure that the prints look uniform and exactly the way you want them to.
If you are on a budget something like a utility knife could work, but a set of carving tools will come in many different shapes, types, and sizes of tools, to ensure you have exactly what you need, every time.
Digital Caliper
Getting precise measurements and dimensions for the projects you create and print is very important, especially if you are making parts for something bigger. As a result, consider picking up a digital caliper. This device helps you check the measurements of the things you print, to ensure everything is accurate down to the last inch.
They make it easier and much more efficient to be precise, and ensure that you can size out the prints correctly to make sure they can do what you want them to. These are quite affordable, and help ensure that everything you design and create is accurate.
If you are planning to get a 3D printer, it is crucial that you don’t forget to pick up these essential accessories at the same time.
