The 3D printing industry has seen significant development over time. The technology of 3D printing has advanced significantly since its early days when it was more expensive and bulkier. Models are now smaller, cheaper, and simpler to use than in the past. However, successful 3D printing is only made possible by combining factors. Several 3D printer accessories are essential for achieving the best results.
With the correct attachments, you can transform your average 3D printer into a sophisticated device that lets you be more confident in the quality of your results.
Here are the top 12 3D printer accessories that will help you get the most out of your 3D printer, from removing support material to enhancing bedplate adhesion.
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Filament Storage Container
An adequate filament storage container is one of the essential accessories for a 3D printer owner.
Most 3D printer owners are unaware of this, resulting in clogging, poor layer adhesion, breakage, and other problems. That is why preventing your filaments from drying out is so critical.
There are many different filament storage containers; however, we think two are ideal for this use.
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Masking Tape
One of the most common 3D printer accessories is masking tape. It’s used to enhance the adhesion of each print to the bed and is quite beneficial. Furthermore, the completed image is considerably simpler to remove from the bed and safeguard from damages.
Make sure you choose masking tape with a width of at least 5 cm (2 inches). Having a more comprehensive video means you’ll need fewer strips to cover your print bed, which will lead to better results.
Kapton tape is a superior solution as it can endure higher temperatures and lasts far longer than masking tape. In the long run, Kapton tape outperforms masking tape because it retains heat better Kapton tape is a type of electrical insulating tape that can help prevent warping in 3D printed objects. This tape also helps prevent severe warping, resulting in a much better 3D print. Combine Kapton tape with other goods for optimal results, such as hairspray.
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PVA Glue Stick
When you’re 3D printing, it’s critical to ensure that your paint adheres well to the build plate. As a result, another approach to improve build plate adhesion is to use a washable glue stick on your print bed. You may easily glue your build plate and then remove it with water.
This is one of the most effective bed adhesion methods, but it’s unsuitable for materials with a high risk of warpiwarpingsh as ABS and polycarbonate.
At the very least, it’s a fantastic way to get in touch with your friends and family without spending money on traditional communication methods. It works well and is easily accessible at a wide range of stores, and it’s inexpensive.
Many people also advocate using hair spray on the bed. Spraying your print bed with hairspray is a quick and straightforward method to add an extra layer of ‘stickiness’ to it.
You can use hairspray, but you must be cautious since applying hair spray regularly and without adequate attention might harm your printer.
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Digital Caliper
For detail-oriented 3D printmakers, a digital calliper is a must-have item. There may be many measuring procedures when 3D printing, so this tool will aid you in increasing efficiency and accuracy, which is crucial.
The definition of tolerance is that it enables you to make very accurate measurements of a component you wish to re-create in 3D and verify the dimensions of calibration prints and compare them with those from the source CAD model.
Unfortunately, these procedures may be time-consuming and tedious when done manually. A decent technique is to use a digital calliper instead of an analogue one since they are more precise. This might not work well with your 3D printer’s extruder if you have too much volume in your filament.
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Extra Print Beds
The secret to a good first layer is to have the correct print bed surface with a smooth finish and durability. To get a decent first layer, you’ll require the appropriate print bed surface that must also be smooth and sturdy.
Some consumers replace their standard print beds with glass plated ones because they retain heat and are less prone to distort the printed portions.
The high temperatures Borosilicate glass can withstand are due to its tempering. It also aids in the production of a smooth finish. When purchasing a 3D printer, make sure the glass print bed’s measurements are appropriate for your model.
It’s one of the most versatile materials because it can be used for many prints and all you have to do is clean it with isopropyl alcohol between each image. It may also be quickly cut to size using a utility knife.
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3D Print Removal Tool
Your 3D print may have adhered to your build plate. A spatula, known as a 3D print removal tool, is what you’ll need to remove this obstacle. The technique is simple: place it gently beneath the print and carefully lift it. This instrument may also be used to remove small pieces of filament.
These spatulas include a mix of sizes to accommodate your printing needs. These spatulas are as thin as a knife blade but lack a sharp edge. It’s important to note that some of these designs are a little tall, and you might inadvertently tip the tray over when picking up your infant. There isn’t much difference between the best one and the next when it comes to products.
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Pliers
Needle-nose pliers enable you to access the tough spots of your 3D printer and its creations while still providing a secure grip. Always seek high-quality pliers with a rubberized, slip-resistant handle.
They may be used to unclog your 3D printer’s nozzles, as well as cut and install new filaments. Occasionally, the prints become caught on the print beds, so they can also remove them.
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Tweezers
For more complicated 3D printing operations, a set of tweezers with many forms and sizes is required—the gold standard for fine, high-precision adjustments in your 3D printer or manufactured parts.
They’re ideal for extracting oozing filament from the extruder nozzle without burning your fingertips. They’re also helpful for finishing prints after various processes, such as painting or decal application.
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Sandpaper
Having a variety of sandpaper grits on hand might be helpful in the finishing process of your printing type of sandpaper you use will make a difference in the result. Sanding with rough sandpaper can be ineffective since it may tear off the fine details and produce an unappealing surface. Abrasive paper abrasive grit wheels should not be used on porous surfaces such as glass or stone because they could cause severe damage to these.
We recommend that you invest in a set of high-quality sandpaper from a recognised manufacturer, ranging from coarse (120 grit) to fine (1000 or more OK). Good quality sandpaper lasts a long time and is more cost-effective over time.
A rotary tool with different attachments can also be used, which will make things a lot easier and more precise.
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Nozzle Set
Nozzles are used to dispense liquids, but they serve various purposes. There are many different shapes and sizes available for nozzles, although they all have the same purpose. Why would you want to have more than one type of nozzle?
There are several reasons why it’s necessary to change a nozzle: for example, you need to print a more extensive model fast, so you’ll need a bigger nozzle; you want delicate details on your print or an intricate design. Therefore you’ll need a smaller nozzle, or your existing nozzle gets clogged, necessitating its replacement.
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Nozzle Cleaning Kit
After many usages, the extruder nozzle may become clogged with melted plastic. The extruder is one of the most crucial components of your 3D printer. Therefore, it’s critical to maintain it in good working order to get high-quality 3D prints.
Cleaning the nozzles may be challenging if you don’t have the appropriate equipment. Various nozzle cleaning kits are available, each tailored to clean a specific range of nozzles. As long as you have this accessory, you’ll be able to keep your 3D printer clean and ready for the next print.
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Carving Tools
You must perform additional work to create a good finished appearance while printing components with many tiny features and supporting material. For completing the 3D prints that require a little effort, this set of carving tools is ideal for smoothing out your finished product by eliminating any excess filament and perfecting all of the tiny details.
This set has 12 different carving tools of various forms and sizes to meet most of your demands.
