3D printers have an open design that cannot enclose the device with its walls. The design and mechanism of operation play a role in reducing cost as well as size. However, the two features may not limit the printer’s capability in any way. If you are using PLA material to print, then an open printer would do. On the other hand, if you are using the ABS or polycarbonate materials to print, then you will need an enclosure. In this blog post, we furnish you with details regarding the uses of the standard 3D printer enclosures. A 3D printer enclosure is a material that covers your printer to improve the quality of printed products.
This blog post highlights the pros of running the 3D printer in the enclosure. We also outline tips for setting up an enclosure.
A 3D printer enclosure is more defined by its functions and not the actual physical structure. It majorly serves as insulation for the print area. The device also protects the printer from several factors, such as the external environment. This minimizes the impact of the printer’s interaction with its surroundings. The printing process will benefit from the printer enclosure. At the same time, the environment can easily be protected from precarious by-products emitted after the printing process.
There are countable types of 3D printer enclosures. The enclosures are made from various materials, including fiberglass, plastic, and studio tents. Every element has a degree of impact on the quality of printing. With that said, it is vital to note that the most critical aspect you should consider when choosing a 3D printer enclosure is its efficacy.
Does it provide you with the long term and short term benefits it should? How easy is the maintenance? If you are printing with ABS, then you should avoid a draft. You should also focus more on capturing the heat generated via the print nozzle of your printer.
Other than that, it is also essential to understand the vast importance of having 3D printer enclosures.
Here are some pros of 3D printer enclosures.
- Protecting the prints from drafts as well as fluctuating temperatures
- Protecting the 3D printer from dust
- Trapping fumes emitted in the printing room
- The enclosure’s metal enhances fire safety
If you are using a PLA filament to print, then you may not need a 3D printer enclosure. This is because the material benefits from cooling, thereby allowing the layer to set in. As a result, the overhang will be eradicated. If the printer is sealed in an enclosure, then the heat will be trapped into the device. This can easily keep the filament from cooling. You may end up with poor quality prints, particularly with the finer details. On the other hand, ABS seems to benefit more from a 3D printer enclosure. Because the commercial 3D printers have relatively heated units that can hold the temperature when printing, an enclosure would come in handy.
In Closing
While you can print without the 3D printer enclosure, you need to arm your machine with the protector because of the impending dangers that may attack it. Delamination can be frustrating. You, therefore, should provide your printer with protective gear. Enclosures are majorly a great way of making the printing experience more comfortable.
