Page 1 User Guide English Objet30 3-D Printer System...
Page 3 Copyright Copyright © 2011 Objet Geometries Ltd. All rights reserved. This documentation contains proprietary information of Objet Geometries Ltd. This information is supplied solely to assist authorized users of Objet30 3‐D printing systems. No part of this document may be used for other purposes, and it may not be disclosed to other parties. The specifications on which this document is based are subject to change without notice. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means, nor stored in a database or retrieval system, without prior permission in writing from Objet Geometries Ltd. If this document is distributed as a PDF file, you may print it for internal use. Trademarks ® ® The following are registered trademarks of Objet Geometries Ltd.: Objet , FullCure The following are trademarks of Objet Geometries Ltd.: Eden, Eden500V, Eden350V, Eden350, Eden330, Eden260, Eden260V, Eden250, Connex, Connex500, Connex350, Objet30, Objet30‐Pro, Objet24, Alaris, Alaris30, PolyJet, PolyJet Matrix, CADMatrix, PolyLog, Objet Studio, Job Manager, SHR, TangoBlack, TangoBlackPlus, TangoGray, TangoPlus, VeroBlue, VeroGray, VeroWhite, VeroWhitePlus, VeroBlack, Durus, DurusWhite, RoseClear, Clear, ObjetGreen, Digital Materials. Microsoft and Microsoft XP are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All names of products and services cited in this book are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies. FCC Compliance The equipment referred to in this guide has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A device pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. Objet 3‐D printing systems generate, use and can radiate radio‐frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense. The 3‐D printer referred to in this guide contains a transmitter module, FCC ID YH6‐RFID. NOTE: Objet Geometries is not responsible for radio or TV interference caused by unauthorized modification to this equipment. Such modification could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. Equipment Recycling In the European Union, this symbol indicates that when the last user wishes to discard a product, it must be sent to appropriate facilities for recovery and recycling. For information about proper disposal, check your purchase contract, or contact the supplier of the equipment.
Page 4 Patents This product is covered by one or more of the following U.S. patents: 5,386,500 6,259,962 6,569,373 6,658,314 6,850,334 7,183,335 7,209,797 7,225,045 7,364,686 7,369,915 7,479,510 7,500,846 7,604,768 7,628,857 7,658,976 7,725,209 Objet Geometries Ltd. http://www.objet.com DOC‐24000 Revision C July 2011...
Page 5: Table Of Contents
Printing Materials ..........................3–4 Available Materials..........................3–4 Storage ..............................3–4 Shelf Life............................... 3–5 Exposure to Light..........................3–5 Safety Considerations......................... 3–5 Disposal ..............................3–5 Work Environment ..........................3–6 Workstation Requirements....................... 3–6 Preparing Files for Use with Objet30 3‐D Printing Systems............3–7 Converting CAD Files to STL Format....................3–7 Converting Files to SLC Format ....................... 3–7 Objet Studio Software ........................3–8 4 Installing Objet Software How to Install Software for the Objet30 3‐D Printing System ............ 4–2 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 6 Display Colors............................5–19 Displaying Large Files ........................5–20 Tray Viewing Options ........................5–21 Handling Completed Trays......................5–23 Tray Validation ..........................5–23 Production Estimates ........................5–24 Saving the Tray File...........................5–24 Printing the Tray File ........................5–24 Additional Objet Studio Features ....................5–26 Dividing Objects ..........................5–26 Choosing the Support Strength .......................5–26 “Smartcast”—Filling Models with Support Material..............5–27 Displaying the Cross Section of Objects..................5–28 Printing the Screen Display on Paper..................... 5–29 Saving the Screen Display as an Image File .................. 5–29 Exporting and Importing Objet Build Trays .................5–29 Advanced‐Mode Features ......................5–30 Save Tray As…...........................
Page 7 User Guide 7 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3‐D Printer Starting the Objet30 Printer ......................7–2 Loading Model and Support Cartridges ..................7–4 Producing Models..........................7–6 Printer Interface Color Key........................ 7–8 Printing Indicators ..........................7–9 Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped ............... 7–9 Changing the Model Material......................7–11 Keeping the Objet30 Printer in Idle Mode ................... 7–15 Shutting Down the Objet30 Printer....................7–16 Shutdown Wizard..........................7–16 Material Flush/Fill Wizard ......................7–18 Maintaining the Objet30 Printer ....................7–21 Routine Maintenance Schedule....................... 7–21 Cleaning the Print Heads......................... 7–22 Pattern Test ............................
Page 9: About This Guide
About This Guide Using This Guide................. 2 For More Information ................. 2 Terms Used in This Guide..............3 1–1 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 10: Using This Guide
About This Guide Using This Guide This user guide provides instructions for installing, operating and maintaining Objet30 3‐D printing systems. It explains how to use features, and provides practical examples to guide you as you use the system. This document is meant to be used with the Objet30 3‐D printer, running software version 30.2.1.5896, and with Objet Studio software version 8.5.9. This guide assumes that: • all the hardware, software, and network components of your Objet30 system are installed, configured, and operating correctly. ® • the operator has a working knowledge of the Windows PC platform. For More Information Visit http://www.objet.com/ for more details about Objet’s technology, products and consumables, and for service and support contacts. For other documents that relate to Objet30 3‐D printing systems, and for this document in other languages, contact your regional Objet Customer Support office. If you have any questions about the information presented in this document, or if you have any comments or suggestions for future editions, please send a message to support@objet.com. 1–2 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 11: Terms Used In This Guide
Objet30 User Guide Terms Used in This Guide build tray In Objet Studio: The surface displayed on the screen that represents the actual build tray in the Objet30 printer. In the Objet30 printer: The surface upon which models are produced. cleaning fluid Cleanser for flushing model feed tubes and the printing block, used to completely remove model material from the system before loading another type of material in the printer. The cleaning fluid is supplied in model‐material cartridges. client/user workstation The workstation on which Objet software is installed, used for preparing build trays for production on Objet30 printers. (There is no limit to the number of client workstations in the local network.) Objet30™ printer The Objet 3‐D printer referred to in this guide. Objet30 computer The computer inside the Objet30 printer that operates it. (This is sometimes referred to as the “embedded” computer.) Objet30 printer interface The GUI (graphical user interface) used for controlling the Objet30 printer. Objet30 software Software running on the computer inside the Objet30 printer that controls all printer operations. host/server workstation The workstation on which the full version of Job Manager is installed. This workstation interfaces directly with the Objet30 printer and is typically positioned next to it. Job Manager™ The software that manages production jobs before they are ...
Page 12 About This Guide A file type used with Objet software. (These files are bitmaps of individual slices of the object. For more information, see page 3‐3.) A file type used with Objet software. (For more information, see page 3‐3.) Support material Material used for supporting the structure of models during production. 1–4 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 13: Safety
Safety Safety Features..................2 Symbols and Warning Labels ............3 Safety Guidelines................. 4 Printer Installation ................4 Printer Operation .................. 4 UV Radiation ..................4 Printer Maintenance ................4 Model and Support Materials ............. 5 First Aid for Working with Printing Materials ....... 6 Waste Disposal..................7 2–1 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 14: Safety Features
Cover interlock switch Circuit breaker Figure 2-1: Front and back views of the Objet30 printer If the Objet30 3-D printing system is not used as specified in this guide, the safety features may not provide adequate protection. 2–2 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 15: Symbols And Warning Labels
Objet30 User Guide Symbols and Warning Labels This following table lists the warning labels located on or in Objet30 printers. Warning Meaning Location Comments Symbol Hazard On the name plate Read the instructions (general) on the back of the in this document printer. before operating the printer. Hot surface On the print‐head Risk of burns. Do not block. touch this surface after printing. High voltage Near the UV lamp Risk of electric shock. connector. Near the power‐ supply enclosures. Ultraviolet Near the UV lamp. Risk of injury from radiation ultraviolet radiation.
Page 16: Safety Guidelines
Safety Safety Guidelines The following general guidelines, together with the instructions provided throughout this user guide, ensure user safety while operating and maintaining the Objet30 system. If the system is not operated as specified, the userʹs safety may be compromised! Printer Installation and removal of the Objet30 printer should only be done by Installation qualified service personnel. Connect the printer to the electric outlet using a power cord that is safety‐certified. The electric outlet should be easily accessible, near the printer. Never connect the power plug to an outlet that does not have a ground (earth) wire, and never disconnect the ground. Doing so may expose the operator to serious danger from electric shock. Leave a minimum of 20 centimeters between ventilation openings and walls or other objects. Printer The Objet30 printer should only be operated by persons trained by an Operation Objet customer‐support representative. All personnel operating or maintaining the Objet30 printer should know the location of first aid and emergency equipment and how to use it. Never block access to this equipment! Keep fingers and other body parts clear of the printer cover when closing it. Never attempt to open the main cover of the printer while it is working! Never override the interlock safety switch! If the interlock safety switch ever fails, do not use the printer. Several parts of the printer remain extremely hot even after it has stopped operating. Avoid touching the UV lamp and the print block. UV Radiation The UV lamp used in the printer emits dangerous radiation. If the UV lamp remains on when the printer cover is open, do not stare directly at the UV light. Shut down the printer and call your Objet service provider.
Page 17: Model And Support Materials
Objet30 User Guide Model and Model and support materials are made of chemical substances. Although Support precautions must be taken when handling these materials directly, all Materials model and support materials used by the Objet30 system are handled in sealed cartridges. Normally, operators of the Objet30 printer should never be directly exposed to hazardous materials. In the unlikely event of a leak or spill, follow the instructions that are included with the printing‐material cartridge used. Store cartridges of model and support materials indoors, in a dry area with adequate ventilation, between 16‐27 degrees Celsius (60‐81 degrees Fahrenheit). Never expose them to flames, heat, sparks, or direct sunlight. Keep model and support materials away from areas where food and drink are stored, prepared and consumed. Uncured printing material is considered a hazardous substance, requiring certain precautions when directly handling it. To prevent skin irritation, wear neoprene or nitrile gloves. If there is any chance that model and support materials might splash into the eyes, wear safety goggles. Prolonged direct contact with printing materials can cause an allergic reaction. When handling UV‐cured models that may not be completely cured on the surface, common latex gloves are adequate. To prevent respiratory irritation, ventilate areas where model and support materials are used. The ventilation system should totally replace the air at least four times per hour. Clean up model‐material and support‐material spills with disposable towels or other absorbent, non‐reusable material, such as sawdust or activated charcoal. Rinse the spill area with denatured or isopropyl alcohol (IPA), followed by soap and water. Dispose of the absorbent material in accordance with local regulations. Do not wash contaminated clothing at home; clothing should be professionally laundered. Dispose of contaminated shoes, belts and other leather items in accordance with any applicable regulations. Absorbed printing ...
Page 18: First Aid For Working With Printing Materials
Safety First Aid for Working with Printing Materials In general, try to avoid direct contact with uncured printing material. If skin or eyes come into contact with it, wash the area immediately and thoroughly with water, and follow these first‐aid instructions. Contact with If uncured printing material comes in contact with skin, wash the affected Skin area immediately and thoroughly with soap and cool water, then remove contaminated clothing. Pay particular attention to flushing the hair, ears, nose and other parts of the body that are not easily cleaned. Use cool water to prevent skin pores from opening, so that the liquid material does not easily penetrate the skin. Do not use solvents to clean skin. If large areas of skin have been exposed, or if prolonged contact results in blisters, seek medical attention. In any case, if irritation persists, seek medical attention. Avoid the accidental transfer of printing material from the hands to other areas of the body, especially to the eyes. If protective cream was used, do not reapply it until the skin has been completely cleansed. Contact with If uncured printing material comes in contact with the eyes, flush Eyes immediately with large amounts of water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Avoid sunlight, fluorescent light, and other sources of ultraviolet radiation. The wearing of contact lenses when handling liquid printing materials is not recommended. If the liquid splashes into the eyes when contact lenses are worn, immediately remove the lenses and flush the eyes with water. Clean and disinfect the contaminated lenses. Do not wear contact lenses until eye irritation disappears.
Page 19: Waste Disposal
Objet30 User Guide Waste Disposal Fully cured printed models can be disposed of as ordinary office trash. However, special care is required when handling printer waste. When removing the waste container from the Objet30 printer, wear neoprene or nitrile gloves. To prevent liquid waste from splashing into the eyes, wear safety goggles. Liquid waste from the Objet30 printer is classified as hazardous industrial waste. Therefore, printing‐material waste must be packaged and disposed of in a manner that prevents human contact with it and contamination of water sources. Empty model‐material and support‐material cartridges contain residue of their contents. Some leakage of this residue may occur through the broken cartridge seal. Therefore, handle and store empty cartridges with care. Do not attempt to reuse empty cartridges, and do not puncture them. Dispose of used cartridges and waste containers in accordance with local regulations. Discard contaminated clothing, shoes, empty containers, etc., in accordance with any applicable regulations. 2–7 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 21: Introducing The Objet30 3-D Printing System
Introducing the Objet30 3-D Printing System Work Configurations ................2 Source Files................... 3 STL Files ....................3 SLC Files ....................3 Printing Materials................4 Available Materials ................4 Storage ....................4 Shelf Life ....................5 Exposure to Light .................. 5 Safety Considerations ................5 Disposal ....................5 Work Environment................6 Workstation Requirements ..............6 Preparing Files for Use with Objet30 3‐D Printing Systems ..
Page 22: Work Configurations
Introducing the Objet30 3-D Printing System Figure 3-1: The Objet30 3-D Printer Work Configurations The Objet30 3‐D printing system can be set up as a single‐station system or as a multi‐station system. When connected to a local computer network, the system can serve multiple users. In such configurations, each user workstation (client) prepares files with Objet Studio software for production. A server (host), typically next to the 3‐D printer, acts as a job manager that sends production jobs to the printer for production. Figure 3‐2 shows the Objet30 printer set up in a multi‐client configuration. Client workstations KVM switch Printer Objet30 server workstation Objet30 printer Figure 3-2: Multi-client network configuration 3–2 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 23: Source Files
Objet30 User Guide When installing the Objet software, you choose whether to install it as a client station or as a master station (server or standalone station). The Objet software arranges the jobs it receives according to their priorities, model‐material type, and other factors. In multi‐workstation configurations, the operator of the server—typically the production administrator—has total control over the jobs sent to the 3‐D printer, and can prioritize and delete jobs, review job history and reprint a job, and so Source Files Objet30 3‐D printing systems produce three‐dimensional models designed with most 3‐D CAD tools and with other job‐specific 3‐D applications. Objet30 systems accept: • STL Files • SLC Files Objet30 systems feature the capability of producing both types of model files simultaneously. STL Files STL is short for Standard Triangulation Language. This language views any object as a collection of surfaces, and describes each surface of the object as a collection of triangles. For example, a square can be described as two triangles; a cube (six squares) as 12 triangles. Curved surfaces need more triangles to describe them. The higher the tolerance (for smooth surfaces), the more triangles are needed. The result is that high‐quality object descriptions mean very heavy files. Most CAD software can export STL files. The Objet30 system utilizes these files for building models (rapid prototyping), and also for directly making molds for mass‐producing items. STL files are ASCII (text) files. The content of each file begins with “solid” and ends with “end‐solid” (both lower case). Between these keywords is a list of the triangles that describes the faces of the solid model. Each triangle defines a single normal vector directed away from the solid’s surface, followed by its X‐Y‐Z coordinates. These are expressed as Cartesian coordinates and are floating‐point values. The coordinates of all triangles ...
Page 24: Printing Materials
Introducing the Objet30 3-D Printing System Printing Materials Objet30 printers produce models by jetting thin layers of printing materials on the build tray, until the complete model is formed. Two types of material are used in this process: • Model material—which makes up the finished model • Support material—which fills gaps and spaces in the model during printing, and is removed after printing Available Two groups of Model materials are available for the Objet30 printer— Materials • Vero Materials in this group are suitable for general model making, and come in a choice of color (white, blue, gray, and black). They offer the following features: thermo‐plastics simulation (appearance and feel) high dimensional stability (especially with VeroGray™) excellent detail and surface quality • Durus DurusWhite™ is currently available, with the following features: polypropylene simulation (appearance and feel) enhanced toughness and flexibility—suitable for reusable containers and other snap‐fit applications For up‐to‐date information about Objet printing materials and their properties, go to www.objet.com/Materials. Storage Materials used for printing models with Objet30 printers are made of resins, which are composed of reactive monomers and oligomers. Although printing materials are supplied in sealed, UV‐proof cartridges, care must be taken when storing and handling them. Follow these ...
Page 25: Shelf Life
Objet30 User Guide Shelf Life Materials used for producing models have a limited shelf life. The expiry date on the label is valid when properly stored in an undamaged, unopened cartridge. Always rotate your stock, so that the cartridge with the earliest date is used first. Exposure to If printing materials are not in their sealed cartridges, make sure to shield Light them from sunlight and other sources of UV radiation, such as fluorescent and mercury‐vapor lights. Exposure to UV radiation causes an increase in viscosity and, eventually, solidification. Safety Before being cured, resins are hazardous materials. To prevent possible Considerations health hazards, follow these precautions regarding printing materials: • Do not expose to flames, heat or sparks. • Prevent contact with skin and eyes. • Ventilate areas where they are handled. • Keep them separate from food and drink. Cured plastic parts, however, are safe. They can be handled and stored without precautions. You can find more safety information about resins in “Safety Guidelines” on page 2-4, and “First Aid for Working with Printing Materials”...
Page 26: Work Environment
Introducing the Objet30 3-D Printing System Work Environment Extreme heat and humidity conditions can adversely affect the operation of the Objet30 3‐D printer. Therefore, it is recommended that you use ventilation or air‐conditioning systems, if necessary, to keep the work area within the following ranges: • 18°–25° C (64°–77° F) • 30%–70% relative humidity Workstation Requirements The minimum requirements for computer components used with Objet 3‐D printer software are listed in the following table. Server/ Client Workstation Stand-alone Station Processor Pentium 4, 3.0 GHz, Pentium 4, 3.0 GHz (min.) 512 KB cache memory (min.) Professional Professional Operating System* Windows XP Windows XP Graphics Card Supporting open GL, Supporting open GL, with 512 MB of memory with 512 MB of memory...
Page 27: Preparing Files For Use With Objet30 3-D Printing Systems
Objet30 User Guide Preparing Files for Use with Objet30 3-D Printing Systems Before using files with Objet30 3‐D printing systems, you must convert them in your CAD program to either STL files or SLC files. (For an explanation of these file formats, see “Source Files” on page 3‐3.) After converting the model files, it is recommended that you check them for defects in an STL‐repair application (such as Magics, by Materialise) before opening them in Objet Studio and producing the model. You can print several models or parts at the same time, after arranging them on the build tray in Objet Studio. The following are the maximum dimensions for a single model printed on the Objet30 printer: • With glossy finish— X axis: 294.00 mm (11.57 inches) Y axis: 192.00 mm (7.55 inches) Z axis: 148.60 mm (5.85 inches) • With matte finish— X axis: 293.00 mm (11.53 inches) Y axis: 191.00 mm (7.52 inches) Z axis: 148.30 mm (5.83 inches)
Page 28: Objet Studio Software
Client computers can be connected, via the local network, to different Objet30 3-D printers, but only to one at a time. The client Job Manager displays the status of the 3-D printer to which the client is currently connected.
Page 29: Installing Objet Software
Installing Objet Software How to Install Software for the Objet30 3‐D Printing System ..2 4–1 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 30: How To Install Software For The Objet30 3-D Printing System
Installing Objet Software How to Install Software for the Objet30 3-D Printing System The Objet Studio setup wizard guides you when installing the Objet software. During installation, you must choose to install either the server (“host”) application or the client application. To install Objet software: 1. Insert the Objet Studio CD into the disk drive. 2. Right‐click the button and select (or use any other method Start Explore for displaying files on the computer). 3. Open the CD‐drive folder and select Setup To run the installation wizard, you must accept the Objet Studio license agreement. After reading its terms, click to continue, or to close the wizard. If you click , the following screen should appear. Figure 4-1:Objet Setup—installation wizard Welcome screen 4.
Page 31 • Select for the server (host) station and Objet Studio and Job Manager for a standalone station—that is, the computer directly connected to the Objet30 printer. Figure 4-3: Objet Setup—Choose Destination Location screen 6. In the Choose Destination Location screen, verify the destination folder and click Next . It is recommended that you do not change the default destination folder. Figure 4-4: Objet Setup—Select Program Folder screen 4–3...
Page 32 Installing Objet Software 7. In the Select Program Folder screen, verify the pre‐selected folder in which the Objet Studio icons will be installed. • To install the icons in another program folder, select it. • To continue, click Next Figure 4-5: Objet Setup—Select Printer Type screen 8. In the Select printer type screen, select the Objet 3‐D printer used for producing models. To continue, click Next Installation begins and the Setup Status screen appears, showing the progress of the installation process. Figure 4-6: Objet Setup—Setup Status screen 4–4 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 33 Objet30 User Guide When the Objet program installation is complete, the final InstallShield Wizard screen appears. Figure 4-7: Objet Setup—final wizard screen To complete the software installation, you must restart the computer. You can do so now or at another time. 9. Select either “ ” or “ ” and click Yes… No… Finish Make sure to remove the CD from the disk drive before restarting the computer. The installation process ends when the appropriate icon(s) appear on the computer desktop: • Objet Studio • Job Manager (for servers and standalone stations) • Stop Job Manager (for servers and standalone stations) 4–5 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 35: Using Objet Studio
Using Objet Studio Opening Objet Studio ................. 2 Toolbars ....................2 Preparing Models for Production ............. 3 Opening STL & SLC Files ..............3 Copying and Pasting Objects .............. 5 Selecting Objects..................5 Arranging the Objet Studio Screen ........... 6 Positioning Objects on the Build Tray ..........8 Automatic Positioning................8 Manual Positioning ................9 Model Orientation................10 Manipulating Objects on the Build Tray........11 Object Position on the Z‐Axis ............11 Repositioning Objects ................. 12 Valid Object Placement ..............
Page 36: Opening Objet Studio
menu. Start Programs Objet Studio opens, displaying an empty build tray. Figure 5-1: Objet Studio opening screen Toolbars The icons shown in this chapter are available only when relevant toolbars are displayed. You can control the toolbars displayed at any time, and you can re‐arrange them on the screen. To customize the toolbars displayed in Objet Studio: 1. From the View menu, select Toolbars 2. In the Customize dialog box, select the toolbars you wish to display, and click Figure 5-2: Toolbar selection dialog box 3. Click and drag the toolbars to position them as you wish on the Objet Studio screen. 5–2 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 37: Preparing Models For Production
Objet30 User Guide Preparing Models for Production To produce models, you must open one or more files in Objet Studio and position the objects on the build tray. You can place objects on the build tray in two ways: • by inserting individual stl or slc files • by pasting objects that you copied to the Windows clipboard If you know what type of model material will be used to produce the models, make sure it is selected from the material drop‐down menu. Figure 5-3: Model material selection toolbar Note: It is not necessary to select the model material now, but it is recommended—each type of material has unique characteristics that may affect the valid positioning of objects on the build tray.
Page 38 Using Objet Studio If the Preview check box is selected, the object is displayed in the dialog box, as shown in figure 5‐4. 5. Select any of the following options, as required: • —Choose millimeters or inches for the object’s units of measure. Units • —Choose how many copies of this object to place Number of copies on the build tray. • —Select this check box to automatically position Arrange models objects on the build tray for efficient model building. Note: The 3-D file contains the object's proportions, but not its units of measure. Therefore, make sure to correctly select either millimeters or inches when inserting an object.
Page 39: Copying And Pasting Objects
Windows Start menu). Having multiple Objet Studio windows open can be convenient when you need to manipulate or configure objects before inserting them in your production build tray. Copying and pasting also allows you to utilize objects already configured on previously-used build trays for newer projects.
Page 40: Arranging The Objet Studio Screen
Using Objet Studio Arranging the Objet Studio Screen The default screen layout displays the perspective view of the build tray and the tray hierarchy pane, which lists the elements placed on the tray (see figure 5‐5 on page 4). You can view models from different angles by changing the screen layout. To change the Objet Studio screen layout: From the View menu, select , then the desired number of build‐ Layout tray views. is the default screen layout, already displayed (see figure 5‐5 2 Views on page 4). By default, the object properties dialog box is also displayed. adds top and front views to the default screen layout (see 3 Views figure 5‐8, below). displays top, front and right views (see figure 5‐9). 4 Views expands the perspective view to fill the screen (see figure 5‐10).
Page 41 Objet30 User Guide Figure 5-9: 4-view screen layout Figure 5-10: 1-view screen layout You can change the perspective of the active viewing pane by clicking any of the nine viewing icons. Figure 5-11: Viewing-pane perspective icons 5–7 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 42: Positioning Objects On The Build Tray
Using Objet Studio Positioning Objects on the Build Tray To produce models efficiently and with the required finish, it is important to carefully position objects on the build tray. Objet Studio features the automatic positioning of objects. However, you should check to make sure that the objects are orientated logically for your needs, according the considerations explained in “Model Orientation” on page 5‐10. Automatic There are two ways to have Objet Studio position the items on the build Positioning tray. • Anytime you insert an object onto the build tray, select Arrange models in the Insert dialog box. Figure 5-12: Arrange models option in the Insert dialog box When you click Open , Objet Studio inserts the new object and arranges all of the objects on the build tray. •...
Page 43: Manual Positioning
Objet30 User Guide Figure 5-13: Tray before objects are properly arranged Figure 5-14: Tray after objects have been automatically arranged Because of the unique characteristics of each type of modeling material, it is recommended that you select the material before inserting objects on the tray with automatic positioning or running Automatic Placement.
Page 44: Model Orientation
Using Objet Studio Model Orientation The orientation of models on the build tray affects how quickly and efficiently they will be produced by the 3‐D printer, where and how much support material is used, and whether or not model parts will have a gloss finish. Therefore, you should consider a variety of factors when deciding how to place models on the tray, using the following positioning rules. X-Y-Z Rule This rule considers a modelʹs outer dimensions. Since the print heads move back and forth along the X‐axis, the printing time along this axis is relatively short, compared to printing time along the Y‐axis and Z‐axis. From this point of view, it is advisable to place the objectʹs longest dimension along the X‐axis. Since models are built up, on the Z‐axis, in 30‐micron layers, it is very time‐consuming to print a tall object. From this point of view, it is advisable to place the objectʹs smallest dimension along the Z‐axis. Since the print heads measure about 2 inches (5 centimeters) on the Y‐ axis, models measuring less than this (on the Y‐axis) are printed in one pass. From this point of view, it is advisable to place the objectʹs intermediate dimension along the Y‐axis. Tall-Left Rule This rule considers models where, after being orientated on the build tray according to other considerations, one side is taller than the other. Since the print heads move along the X‐axis from left to right, taller sections on the right require the print heads to scan unnecessarily from the left until reaching them. If, on the other hand, the taller sections are positioned on the left of the tray, the print heads only have to scan the model until printing these sections—once the lower parts have been completed. Therefore, you should position the taller side of the model, when possible, on the left. The following rules are based on the fact that support material is not required on the top of the printed model.
Page 45: Manipulating Objects On The Build Tray
In practice, the Objet30 system prints all models on the build tray on a one- millimeter bed of support material. The importance of positioning objects directly on the build tray with Objet Studio is to correctly display the objects on the screen.
Page 46: Repositioning Objects
Viewing Object Properties After you manually manipulate an object with the mouse, its new properties are displayed in the Transform tab of the object properties dialog box. The object-properties dialog box is displayed by default (see figure 5-5 on page 4) and whenever the screen layout is changed or refreshed (see “Arranging the Objet Studio Screen” on page 5-6). 5–12 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 47 You can make precise changes to an object on the build tray by selecting the object (either on the tray or in the tray hierarchy pane), changing its values in the dialog box, and clicking Change Units Note: You can only change the height of the objects on the build tray if this is allowed by the Objet Studio settings (see “Object Position on the Z-Axis” on page 5-11.) The properties displayed in the Transform tab of the object properties dialog box are absolute values, representing the actual position of the object on the build tray. Another way of repositioning objects on the tray using precise ...
Page 48: Valid Object Placement
Using Objet Studio Valid Object To ensure that models do not overlap when you position them on the build Placement tray, you can select the Dynamic Checking icon from the Tools toolbar. When selected, Objet Studio only allows the positioning of objects if they do not interfere with other objects on the tray. Note that the space occupied by an object includes the “bounding box” surrounding it (see figure 5‐24 on page 19). Even if you do not use Dynamic Checking when placing objects on the build tray, Objet Studio automatically checks if there is a problem with the positioning of objects on the tray before sending it to the printer. You can also manually check for problems after positioning objects (see “Tray Validation” on page 23). Using a Grid to Displaying a grid on the image of the build tray can be useful when Position positioning objects. You can make use of this feature by clicking the grid Objects toolbar icons or by selecting menu options. Icon Menu Option Result Tools > Grid Displays a grid over all build tray views. Tools > Snap to grid When moving the object, it aligns with the nearest grid line. Enables you to change the grid origin ...
Page 49: Changing An Object's Orientation
Objet30 User Guide The dialog box displays the current grid settings. 2. As required, make changes to the settings, and select or clear the check boxes. 3. Click or Apply Changing an There are several methods for changing the orientation of objects on the Object’s build tray. Orientation To rotate an object: Select the object and use the Rotate icon or Object menu options (see “Repositioning Objects” on page 5‐12). To select an object’s plane and re-align it with one of six basic directions: • From the Plane Alignment toolbar: 1.
Page 50: Freezing An Object's Orientation
Using Objet Studio Freezing an If you manipulate an object on the build tray, you can freeze its orientation Object’s so that it does not change when you perform Automatic Placement (see Orientation “Automatic Positioning” on page 5‐8). To freeze an object’s orientation: 1. Select a model on the build tray. 2. In the Options tab of the object properties dialog box, click Advanced The Advanced Properties dialog box opens. Figure 5-20: Advanced Properties dialog box 3. Select the Lock Orientation check box. 4. Close the Advanced Properties dialog box. You can set Lock Orientation as a default property for all models placed on the build tray.
Page 51: Default Object Properties
Objet30 User Guide Default Object You can set several default properties for objects placed on the build tray: Properties • locking of object orientation on the tray For an explanation of this feature, see Freezing an Object’s Orientation on page 5‐16. • surface finish for printed models For an explanation of this feature, see Surface Finish on page 5‐16. • support strength used during printing For an explanation of this feature, see Choosing the Support Strength on page 5‐26. • “smartcast” printing For an explanation of this feature, see “Smartcast”—Filling Models with Support Material on page 5‐27. To set any of these default properties: From the File menu, select Default Properties Figure 5-21: Setting default properties for objects 5–17...
Page 52: Display Options
Using Objet Studio Display Options From the View menu, you can change the way objects are displayed on the screen. The default method for displaying models on the build tray is as solid (“shaded”) objects. Figure 5-22: Tray and model displayed in shaded view The other display options are wire frame and points. To display the build tray in wire frame view: Select or click the WireFrame icon View > WireFrame Figure 5-23: Tray and model displayed in Wire frame view To revert to the shaded view: Select ...
Page 53: Display Colors
Select View > Display Thickening Box Figure 5-25: Model displayed with thickening box Display Colors You can customize some of the colors used for displaying Objet Studio screens and for displaying objects on the build tray. To change the colors displayed in Objet Studio screens: 1. From the Tools menu, select Define Colors 2. In the Define Colors dialog box, click the color patch you want to change: • Tray Color—to change the color of the build tray •...
Page 54: Displaying Large Files
Before sending a build tray to the printer, or when you perform tray validation, Objet Studio checks if there is a problem with the stl files or the positioning of objects on the tray. If so, the affected objects are displayed with special colors (see “Tray Validation”...
Page 55: Tray Viewing Options
Objet30 User Guide Tray Viewing The Objet Studio toolbars contain several icons for changing the Options appearance of the display screen, enabling you to view the tray and objects in different magnifications and from various perspectives. Note: You must display the relevant toolbar(s) to access many of the icons described below (see “Toolbars” on page 5-2). Icon Tool Tip Name Purpose Zoom Full Reverts to normal view after using various zoom options. (The same as Zoom Object Fills the viewing pane with the selected object(s).
Page 56 Using Objet Studio Icon Tool Tip Name Purpose Pan Left Each mouse click moves the build tray to the left in the viewing pane by one step. Pan Right Each mouse click moves the build tray to the right in the active viewing pane by one step. Pan Up Each mouse click moves the build tray up in the active viewing pane by one step. Pan Down Each mouse click moves the build tray down in the active viewing pane by one step. Advance Forward The same as . Each mouse click zooms in to the tray displayed in the active viewing pane. Advance Backward The same as . Each mouse click zooms out of the tray displayed in the active viewing pane. Rotate Left Each mouse click rotates the build tray to the left in the active viewing pane by one step. Rotate Right Each mouse click rotates the build tray to the right in the active viewing pane by one step. Rotate Up Each mouse click rotates the build tray up in the active viewing pane by one step. Rotate Down Each mouse click rotates the build tray down in ...
Page 57: Handling Completed Trays
Objet30 User Guide Handling Completed Trays After you have properly placed all objects on the build tray, you save the tray as an objtf file, which is sent to the 3‐D printer for production. But before saving the tray, you can check that there would be no problem producing it. You can also calculate how much material would be consumed during production and how much time this would take. Tray Validation Before sending a job to the Objet30 printer for production, you should check that the tray is “valid” and can be printed. To validate that the tray can be printed: From the Tools menu, select Tray Validation or— Click If the tray is not valid, the color of the problematic models on the tray changes according to a pre‐set color code. If a warning message appears, click to close it. Figure 5-29: Tray validation warning To view the color code for objects displayed: From the Tools menu, select ...
Page 58: Production Estimates
Using Objet Studio Production Objet Studio enables you to calculate the time and material resources Estimates needed for producing trays before sending them to the Objet30 printer. The time it takes Objet Studio to make this calculation depends on the number of objects on the tray and their complexity. Calculating the production estimate for a full tray could take up to 15 minutes, depending on your computer’s specifications. The results displayed are accurate within 10 percent of the actual resources needed. To calculate the time and materials needed for producing the current tray: From the Tools menu, select Estimate Consumptions or— Click . When Objet Studio finishes calculating the production resources, the results are displayed at the bottom of the screen. Figure 5-31: Production resource calculation Saving the Trays are saved as objtf files. You can save a tray before it is ready for ...
Page 59 Figure 5-33: Constraints Settings dialog box, with color codes for problematic model positioning The tray file is sent to Job Manager. Objet Studio closes and Job Manager opens, so you can monitor the progress of your trays—before, during, and after printing.
Page 60: Additional Objet Studio Features
Using Objet Studio Additional Objet Studio Features Dividing You can use the Split Object feature to produce objects larger than the build Objects tray by dividing the model into separate parts. With this feature, you produce only a specific section of a model. To split an object: 1. Select the object. 2. From the Object menu, select Split 3. In the Split Object dialog box, enter the values to determine how Objet Studio will divide the object. You can divide an object along any of its axes, by entering either exact measurements or the number of parts. Figure 5-34: Split Object dialog box 4. In Save to Folder, enter the folder name. 5. Click The composite parts are saved as new stl files with “Part 1,” “Part 2,” etc., added to the original file name. Note: Before printing the newly created stl files, it is recommended that you check them for defects in an STL-repair application, such as Magics, by Materialise.
Page 61: Smartcast"- Filling Models With Support Material
To use the Smartcast/Hollow feature: 1. Select a model on the build tray. 2. In the Options tab of the object properties dialog box, click Advanced The Advanced Properties dialog box opens (see figure 5‐35). 3. Select the Smartcast/Hollow check box. 4. Set the shell thickness, in millimeters. 5. Click Apply Note: There is no change in the display of objects in Objet Studio when the Smartcast/Hollow feature is used. 5–27 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 62: Displaying The Cross Section Of Objects
Using Objet Studio To inspect, change or cancel the Smartcast/Hollow setting: 1. Select a model on the build tray. 2. Access the Advanced Properties dialog box, as above. 3. If you change or cancel the Smartcast/Hollow setting, click Apply You can set Smartcast/Hollow as a default property for all models placed on the build tray. See “Default Object Properties” on page 17.
Page 63: Printing The Screen Display On Paper
Objet30 User Guide Printing the You can print the view displayed in the active pane on a regular (paper) Screen Display printer. Before printing, you can configure how the tray will be printed on on Paper the page, and you can display a screen preview of the printed page. To access the paper printing controls: From the File menu, select— Page Setup… Page Preview… Print You can also print a paper copy of the tray by using the standard Windows keyboard shortcut for printing: Ctrl+P Saving the You can save the image displayed in the active viewing screen as a graphic Screen Display file. as an To save the screen display as an image: Image File 1.
Page 64: Advanced-Mode Features
2. In the Open dialog box, display the appropriate folder and select the file. 3. In the Browse for Folder dialog box, display the folder in which you want Objet Studio to expand the compressed file, and click The objtf file and associated stl files are expanded and placed in the selected folder, and the tray is displayed in Objet Studio. Advanced-Mode Features The Objet Studio features described in this section are only accessible if the application is set to Advanced mode. To see the current Objet Studio setting: Open the Tools menu. Figure 5-40: Tools menu, showing Advanced mode selected If Advanced is checked, the advanced features are enabled. To change the Advanced setting: 1. Click in the Tools menu. Advanced The following message is displayed, reminding you that the change will only take effect the next time you open Objet Studio—even though ...
Page 65: Save Tray As
Objet30 User Guide Save Tray As… In addition to saving the tray as an objtf file, for producing it with an Objet30 3‐D printer, you can save a group of objects positioned on the tray as an stl file. You can then use this file as any other stl file, both in Objet Studio and in other applications. You can also display this and other stl files as “floating” objects, without the build tray. This is useful for inspecting objects from every angle. To save the build tray as an stl object: 1. From the File menu, select Save Tray As… Figure 5-42: Save As dialog box 2. At the top of the dialog box, select the appropriate folder. 3. At the bottom of the dialog box, enter a file name. 4. Open the Save as type pull‐down menu, and select STL Files (*.stl) 5.
Page 66: Configuring The Gl Driver
2. In the Options dialog box, display the Advanced tab and click OpenGL Driver Configuration… Figure 5-43: Accessing GL-driver configuration Note: If the Advanced tab is not displayed, activate the Advanced option in the Tools menu and re-open Objet Studio. The dialog box that opens contains tabs that display the pixel format ID (index) for the window and the memory. Figure 5-44: OpenGL Driver Configuration dialog box You can display the values and make changes to them by clicking ...
Page 67 Objet30 User Guide To perform a test of the driver configuration and enter the suggested pixel format ID: 1. Select . Choose Format 2. Click Test Objet Studio returns the recommended pixel format ID. Figure 5-45: Recommended pixel format ID 3. Click . 4. In the OpenGL Driver Configuration dialog box (figure 5‐44), select and enter this number.
Page 69: Using Job Manager
Using Job Manager Client Job Manager................2 Job Manager Screen ................3 Job Manager Operations ..............4 Configuring User Alerts............... 5 Server Job Manager ................7 Job Manager Screen ................8 Job Manager Operations ..............9 Making changes to a Job ..............10 User Alerts.................... 11 Sending the Tray to the 3‐D printer for Production ....... 12 6–1 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 70: Client Job Manager
Using Job Manager The Job Manager application is different for client workstations and for the computer connected directly to the 3‐D printer. • Job Manager installed on client computers displays the queue and status only for jobs sent to the 3‐D printer server from that computer, and allows the user to edit only these jobs. If there are several Objet30 printers on the local network, client computers can connect to any of them, but only one at a time. • Job Manager installed on the computer directly connected to a specific 3‐D printer displays the queue and status for all jobs sent to that 3‐D printer by client computers on the network. It also allows editing and manipulation of all jobs, and enables re‐sending previously‐printed jobs to the printer. Client Job Manager When you open the client Objet Studio / Job Manager software for the first ...
Page 71: Job Manager Screen
Objet30 User Guide Job Manager On a client computer, Job Manager displays the queue of jobs sent by that Screen computer to the printer server. Print Queue Print History Figure 6-2: Client Job Manager screen Information for each of the queued jobs is displayed, including the job status: Status Meaning Waiting Printing of this job has not started. Building Printing of this job is in progress. Paused Printing of this job began, but was interrupted by the administrator before being completed. Stopped Printing of this job was terminated by the administrator, and was put in the print queue again. Error Errors occurred during the printing of this job, and it was placed in the print queue again. Editing This job is now being edited in Objet Studio Previewing The operator at the server computer is inspecting the ...
Page 72: Job Manager Operations
Using Job Manager Job Manager Even after sending a build tray to the 3‐D printer, you can inspect the tray— Operations and make changes to it, if necessary—as long as it is still in the print queue. To inspect the build tray: 1. Select the job. 2. Click the Edit Job icon or open the Job menu and select Edit Objet Studio opens, displaying the build tray. To make changes to it, see “Making changes to a Job” on page 6‐10. The following operations are available from the client Job Manager interface: Icon Menu Option Purpose 3‐D Printer > Launches Objet Studio; to prepare new trays. New Job 3‐D Printer > Displays a network‐browsing dialog box, to Set Printer connect to an Objet server computer. To specify a computer, it must be operating and connected to the local network. —— Displays the status of the 3‐D printer (see figure 6‐3).
Page 73: Configuring User Alerts
Objet30 User Guide Figure 6-3: Printer status screen Configuring Job Manager can alert you and others to the status of the jobs sent to the User Alerts server for printing. The following events can be reported: • The level of model or support material is low. • The job was interrupted. • The job was completed successfully. To send e‐mail and SMS messages, make sure that e‐mail software supporting MAPI is installed on the printer’s server computer. To send SMS messages, the cellular phone service must support the transmission of e‐ mail messages by SMS. With SMS alerts, only the subject line of the e‐mail message is transmitted. Note: In the e-mail program, make sure the security settings are set to “low” and add the server Job Manager to the “trusted” list (select Tools >...
Page 74 Using Job Manager 2. For e‐mail and SMS alerts, click in the respective Add Recipient sections. 3. To choose the events reported to you by Job Manager, click in Details the relevant sections. Figure 6-5: Event selection for alerts 4. Select the desired events for sending alerts and click The parameters for “Low level of material” alerts are set on the printer’s server computer. 6–6 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 75: Server Job Manager
Objet30 User Guide Server Job Manager When you open the server Objet Studio / Job Manager program for the first time, or if the program is not connected to an Objet 3‐D printer, you are prompted to connect to a printer. If you click in the dialog box, the Setting Network Connection dialog box opens (see figure 6‐6). To connect to a printer, the printer must be on and connected to the local network. You can switch the server connection to another printer at any time. To set (or change) the printer connection: 1. From the 3D Printer menu, select Set Printer 2.
Page 76: Job Manager Screen
Figure 6-7: Server Job Manager screen Print Queue Information for each of the queued jobs is displayed, including the job status: Status Meaning Waiting Printing of this job has not started. Building Printing of this job is in progress. Paused Printing of this job began, but was interrupted by the administrator before being completed. Stopped Printing of this job was previously terminated by the administrator, and later put in the print queue again. Error Errors previously occurred during the printing of this job, and it was placed in the print queue again. Editing This job is now being edited (with Objet Studio) on the Objet30 server computer. Previewing The slices of this job are being displayed in a separate window. (To display the job tray, open the Job menu and select Preview Slices.) Spooling The job file is being spooled in the Objet30 printer. Preprocessing The Objet30 printer is readying itself for printing: the cover locks, print heads warm up and are put in starting position, the UV lamp is turned on, build‐tray level is adjusted. 6–8 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 77: Job Manager Operations
Objet30 User Guide Job History The History section of the Job Manager screen lists details of the last 15 jobs sent for printing, showing the job’s final status. A job can be returned from the History section to the print queue in order to print the tray again. To move a job from History to the print queue: 1. Select the job in the History section. 2. Click the Resume icon The job moves from the History section to the end of the print queue. Note: Alternatively, you can drag the job from the History section to the print queue. To manipulate jobs in other ways, see “Job Manager Operations,” below.
Page 78: Making Changes To A Job
Making From the job (“print”) queue of Job Manager, you can open jobs to make changes to a changes to them before printing. To make changes to a job: 1. Select the job in the print queue. 2. Click the Edit Job icon or open the Job menu and select Edit Objet Studio opens, displaying the build tray. (The status of the job in Job Manager changes from “Waiting” to “Editing.”) 3. Make changes to the build tray in Objet Studio (see chapter 5, “Using Objet Studio”). 4. In Objet Studio, save the changes by selecting File > Save Tray (or by pressing Ctrl+S 5. Close Objet Studio. The status of the job in Job Manager changes back to “Waiting.” 6–10 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 79: User Alerts
Objet30 User Guide User Alerts Job Manager can alert you and others to the status of the jobs sent to the server for printing. This is especially useful during long printing jobs, when the operator is away from the 3‐D printer. The following events can be reported: • The level of model or support material is low. • The job was interrupted. • The job was completed successfully. For details on how to configure alert messages, see “Configuring User Alerts” on page 6‐5. To set parameters for “Low level of material” alerts: 1. From the 3‐D Printer menu, select Material Consumption…. 2. In the dialog box that opens, set the time or the material weight remaining that triggers the alert message. Figure 6-8: Material alert message dialog box The dialog box shown above also pops up over the Job Manager screen to ...
Page 80: Sending The Tray To The 3-D Printer For Production
Using Job Manager Material warning icon Figure 6-9: Insufficient material warning When the time set in the dialog box triggers the remote alert message, the warning icon changes color—from a yellow to a red background. Sending the If there is a job in the print queue, it is sent automatically to the Objet30 Tray to the 3-D printer—as long as it is on, there is a connection to the printer, and the printer for printer is on line. Chapter 7 describes starting and operating the Objet30 Production printer. 6–12 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 81: Operating & Maintaining The Objet30 3-D Printer
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Starting the Objet30 Printer ............... 2 Loading Model and Support Cartridges.......... 4 Producing Models ................6 Printer Interface Color Key..............8 Printing Indicators ................9 Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped......9 Changing the Model Material ............11 Keeping the Objet30 Printer in Idle Mode........15 Shutting Down the Objet30 Printer ..........16 Shutdown Wizard ................16 Material Flush/Fill Wizard..............18 Maintaining the Objet30 Printer............21 Routine Maintenance Schedule............21 Cleaning the Print Heads ..............
Page 82: Starting The Objet30 Printer
Figure 7-1: The Objet30 3-D Printer Starting the Objet30 Printer CAUTION! • Do not attempt to operate the Objet30 printer before being trained by an Objet customer-support representative. • Observe all safety warnings and follow the safety guidelines described in chapter 2.
Page 83 Figure 7-3: Objet30 interface Objet30 installations utilize one monitor for displaying both the computer running Objet Studio / Job Manager and the computer installed inside the printer. Make sure that the KVM (keyboard-video-mouse) switch is in the correct position so that the Objet30 printer interface is displayed.
Page 84: Loading Model And Support Cartridges
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Loading Model and Support Cartridges Objet30 printers use two cartridges of model material and two cartridges of support material, each weighing one kilogram when full. A graphical representation of the cartridges and their current weight appears in the printer interface (see figure 7‐3). Note: The printer-control interface displays the type and weight of the material cartridges loaded only if the printing-materials drawer is closed. The printer uses RFID technology to automatically identify the material cartridges.
Page 85 Objet30 User Guide 4. Check the Objet30 printer interface to make sure that the new cartridge is detected and that its weight is displayed (see figure 7‐3). 5. Close the printing‐materials drawer. Tips about replacing cartridges: • You can replace material cartridges either before or during printing. If you do so while printing, make sure to load the new cartridge and close the cartridge drawer within three minutes. This ensures that the print job is not interrupted.
Page 86: Producing Models
Before beginning to produce models, it is recommended that you check the current printing quality of the print heads by performing a pattern test (see “Pattern Test” on page 24). To prepare the Objet30 printer for producing models: 1. Make sure that the build tray in the Objet30 printer is empty and clean. If not, remove old material with the scraper, and clean the tray ...
Page 87 When printing begins, Job Manager sends seven slices to the Objet30 printer. This is the standard buffer between the Job Manager and the printer. As each slice is printed, the Job Manager sends another slice to the printer. Depending on the size of the model(s) to be produced, printing can take between several hours to several days. As long as there is enough model and support material in the supply cartridges, printing proceeds automatically until the job is finished. During printing, the server computer must remain on and it must communicate with the Objet30 printer. Do not log-off Windows until printing is finished. The Objet30 printer uses one model‐material cartridge and one support‐ material cartridge to produce models. When four cartridges are loaded in the printer, two of them are reserve, or standby, cartridges. By default, the printer first uses the cartridges with the least material in them. The active cartridges are blue in the printer interface. When the weight of a cartridge drops below 100 grams, the remaining material displayed in the printer interface is red. The printer then alternates the pumping of material between the heavier and the almost‐empty ...
Page 88: Printer Interface Color Key
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Block temp. System behind vacuum level print heads Temp. of support head UV lamp state Waste weight Temp. of Chamber temp. model head Block temp. Model/Support in front of material in print- print heads...
Page 89: Printing Indicators
Job information Progress bar Stop button Pause button Distributed pumping Almost empty Figure 7-8: Objet30 printer interface during printing Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped If the printing process is interrupted, Job Manager stops sending slices to the Objet30 printer. This can happen, for example, if the printing material runs out in the middle of a print job, and you don’t replace the empty cartridge immediately. After the printer changes to Standby or Idle mode, you need to resume printing from Job Manager. After printing stops, the printer goes into Standby mode, when heating of print heads is reduced.
Page 90 1. Cancel the print job in Job Manager. 2. Remove the partially printed model from the build tray. 3. Send the job to the Objet30 printer again. You can stop and later resume printing from either the Objet30 printer interface or the Job Manager interface, since both applications are updated when you use these commands. However, after clicking the Pause button in the printer interface, you can only resume printing from the printer interface.
Page 91: Changing The Model Material
Objet30 User Guide Changing the Model Material Before producing models using a different type of model material than is currently installed, run the Material Replacement wizard to flush the print block and feed tubes. You should carefully plan printing models with different model materials to avoid unnecessary waste of the material loaded in the printer. The amount of material flushed depends on the flushing cycle chosen and if you are replacing one or both cartridges.
Page 92 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 5. From the drop‐down menu, choose the material you want to install, and click Next Figure 7-12: Material Selection screen Note: This selection automatically affects the default material setting in Objet Studio. 6. In the Flushing Options screen, choose the appropriate cycle for the model material you want to install. Figure 7-13: Flushing Options screen • Economy. During this cycle, which takes about 25 minutes, the pump purges the model material from the print block, then flushes the system with the new material.
Page 93 Figure 7-14: Material Replacement warning screen Once you start this procedure, you must complete it before you can produce models with the Objet30 printer. To perform the procedure at another time, click Cancel. If you continue (by clicking Next) and you do not complete the procedure, you must start the Material Replacement wizard again before producing models.
Page 94 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 10. When prompted, load the new cartridge(s) and close the drawer. Confirm this in the wizard screen and click Next After identifying the new cartridge(s), the Objet30 printer begins filling the print heads with the new model material. Figure 7-16: Material replacement: filling heads with new material 11. When the final wizard screen appears, make sure that the screen displays the newly‐loaded material(s). Click to close the wizard. Done CAUTION: Dispose of all material cartridges in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. If necessary, the cartridges can be disassembled for recycling.
Page 95: Keeping The Objet30 Printer In Idle Mode
To put the printer into Idle mode: From the File menu (in the printer interface) click Exit Note: The printer remains in Idle mode until you open the Objet30 printer application and begin printing again. When the printer is in Idle mode, do not turn it off. It can remain in this mode—with the cover closed—for up to a week.
Page 96: Shutting Down The Objet30 Printer
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Shutting Down the Objet30 Printer You only need to shut down the Objet30 printer if it will not be used for a week or more. Otherwise, the printer can remain on, in Idle mode. To properly shut down, the printer needs to perform several processes. Do not attempt to shut down the printer by simply closing the computer interface (the printer‐control application), and never disconnect power to the printer before completing this wizard. Instead, use the wizards that prepare the printer for shutdown. • Shutdown Wizard. This wizard clears the print heads of printing materials before shutdown. Use this wizard if you need to shutdown the printer computer (or disconnect the power supplied to the printer) for less than one week, and to complete the shutdown process after running the Material Flush/Fill Wizard. • Material Flush/Fill Wizard. This wizard replaces printing materials in the print heads with cleaning fluid. Use this wizard if you need to shut down the printer for more than one week. (After using this wizard, you must run it again before printing models, this time to replace the cleaning fluid in the print heads with printing materials.) The Material Flush/Fill Wizard is described on page 7‐18. Shutdown Note: If you expect the printer to be shut down for more than one week, first Wizard run the Material Flush/Fill Wizard (see page 7-18).
Page 97 Objet30 User Guide 3. In the next screen, indicate whether or not the tray is empty and click Next Figure 7-18: Tray status screen The shutdown procedure begins. Figure 7-19: Shutdown progress screen The shutdown procedure may take up to 10 minutes while the following tasks are performed: a. The print block returns to its starting point on all axes. b. The print heads are heated. c. The print heads are cleared of any remaining material. After these tasks are completed, the final wizard dialog box appears, in which you choose whether or not to shut down the computer in the Objet30 printer at this time. Figure 7-20: Computer Shutdown confirmation dialog box 7–17 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 98: Material Flush/Fill Wizard
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 4. When completely shutting down the Objet30 printer and turning the power off, select and click Next 5. After the printer computer shuts down, turn off the main power switch (at the back of the printer) (see figure 7‐2 on page 2). Material You use this wizard to prepare the printer for a shutdown of more than one Flush/Fill week, and to restore the printer to working condition. Wizard • To prepare the printer for an extended shutdown, the wizard drains printing materials from the print heads, then flushes the system with cleaning fluid. This process takes about 60 minutes. For this procedure, you need to load four (4) cleaning‐fluid cartridges in the cartridge drawer. • To restore the printer to working condition, the wizard fills the system with printing materials. This process takes about 30 minutes. For this procedure, you need to load two (2) cartridges of model material and two (2) cartridges of support material. To run the Material Flush/Fill Wizard: 1. Select ...
Page 99 Objet30 User Guide 4. Load the required cartridges, close the cartridge drawer, and confirm this in the wizard screen. Figure 7-22: Cartridge confirmation screen—before shutdown Figure 7-23: Cartridge confirmation screen—before printing 7–19 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 100 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 5. In the next wizard screen, confirm that the printer cover is closed, and click Next The wizard runs the material‐flushing cycles. Figure 7-24: Flushing cycles in progress 6. If cleaning‐fluid cartridges are loaded in the printer, the wizard prompts you to remove them. Confirm this in the wizard screen, and click Next Figure 7-25: Final wizard screen Note: After preparing the printer for an extended shutdown period with this wizard, run the Shutdown Wizard to complete the shutdown process.
Page 101: Routine Maintenance Schedule
Objet30 User Guide Maintaining the Printer The performance of routine maintenance tasks is essential for getting satisfactory results from Objet 3‐D printers. Perform the tasks at specified intervals for optimum performance. Routine Maintenance Frequency Task For More Information Schedule After every print job Clean the print heads. See “Cleaning the Print Heads” on page 7‐22. Clean the build tray and the surrounding area. Weekly Perform the Pattern test. See “Pattern Test” on page 7‐24. Weekly Clean and inspect the See “Cleaning and wiper. Replacing the Wiper” on page 7‐25. Weekly Restart the printer computer and the ...
Page 102: Cleaning The Print Heads
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Cleaning the Periodic inspection and cleaning of the orifice plates on the bottom of the Print Heads print block ensures that the print nozzles are not clogged. A wizard guides you through the procedure, and adjusts components of the printer to enable you to perform it. To maintain your Objet30 printer in optimum condition, clean the print heads after every print job, when you remove the model from the build tray. This procedure takes about 20 minutes. To clean the print heads: 1. Prepare— • isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) • disposable cleaning gloves • an Objet‐supplied cleaning cloth or equivalent • a mirror 2. Start the Heads Cleaning wizard from the Options menu (see figure 7‐36 on page 26). 3. Follow the instructions on the wizard screens, and select the check boxes to confirm that: •...
Page 103 Objet30 User Guide WARNING: The print head orifice plates (bottom surface) may be hot. Do not touch them with your bare hands, and proceed with caution. 6. Place the mirror on the build tray. 7. Put on the gloves. 8. Soak the cleaning cloth with the cleaning fluid. 9. Clean the orifice plates, with a back‐and‐forth motion (see figure 7‐28). Use the mirror to make sure that you have removed all of the residue material. Figure 7-28: Cleaning the heads It is recommended that you use this opportunity to also clean the roller and the UV-lamp lens (to the right of the print heads).
Page 104: Pattern Test
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Pattern Test The pattern test is the basic verification of the printer’s ability to produce quality models, since it demonstrates the condition of the nozzles in the print heads. Make sure, therefore, that you perform this test weekly, and whenever you suspect a printing problem. To perform the pattern test: 1. Make sure that the build tray is empty. 2. Prepare a sheet of pink paper, approximately 21 × 14 centimeters in size (8.5 × 5.5 inches)—half of the standard A‐4 or Letter size. 3. In the Objet30 printer, tape the pink paper to the center of the build tray. 4. Press , or open the Options menu and select Pattern Test Figure 7-30: Pattern Test confirmation 5. In the following dialog box, click Figure 7-31: Build tray (Z) level adjustment The Objet30 printer prints a series of lines on the test paper.
Page 105: Improving Print Quality
Objet30 User Guide Too many missing lines, especially if they are in the same area, indicates that the quality of printing when producing models will be poor. If this is the case, see “Improving Print Quality,” below. Note: Acceptable model quality is subjective, and depends on the type and scale (size) of the models produced. As a rule, however, if two consecutive lines are missing, or if there are more than 10 lines missing in either column, the model quality is usually unacceptable.
Page 106 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 2. Start the Wiper Cleaning wizard from the Options menu of the printer interface. Figure 7-33: Starting the Wiper Cleaning wizard 3. Close the printer cover, and click in the wizard screen. Next 4. Make sure that the build tray is empty, and close the printer cover. Confirm this in the wizard screen. Figure 7-34: Wiper Cleaning procedure—step 4 5. Click . Next 7–26 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 107 Objet30 User Guide 6. When the following screen appears, open the cover. Figure 7-38: Wiper Cleaning wizard during steps 7–10 7. Put on the cleaning gloves. 8. Using a generous amount of cleaning fluid and the cleaning cloth, remove any material remaining on the wiper and the surrounding area. 9. Inspect the wiper. If the wiper is scratched, torn or worn, or if you cannot clean it completely, replace it. a. With the M2.5 Allen key, loosen (but do not remove) the screw securing the wiper. Wiper Securing screw Wiper and excess-material drain b. Grasp the wiper unit and remove it. c. Insert the new wiper, making sure that it is level, and tighten the securing screw. 10. In the wizard screen (see figure 7‐38), confirm that the wiper blade is ...
Page 108: Cleaning And Replacing The Roller Waste Collector
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 12. Select the confirmation check boxes in the wizard screen and click Next Figure 7-39: Wiper Cleaning procedure—final confirmation screen 13. Click to close the wizard. Done Cleaning and Normally, you do not have to inspect and clean the roller waste collector. Replacing the This is done by a customer‐support engineer during regular maintenance Roller Waste visits. Occasionally, however, a blockage or damaged scraper may cause Collector material leakage on the build tray. If this happens, remove the roller waste collector and replace it. To remove the roller waste collector: 1. From the Options menu, select ...
Page 109 Objet30 User Guide 3. When the following screen appears, open the cover. Figure 7-41: Wizard screen that appears when you can begin the procedure WARNING: The print head orifice plates (bottom surface) may be hot. Do not touch them with your bare hands, and proceed with caution.
Page 110 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 6. Pull the bottom of the locking pin, and turn it counter‐clockwise, to raise the drain‐tube bracket from the roller waste collector. Drain-tube bracket Roller waste collector Roller-waste-collector screws Figure 7-44: Raising the drain-tube bracket 7. Support the roller waste collector with your hand under it, and use a 3 mm Allen key to loosen the screws. 8. Pull out the roller waste collector, taking care not to touch or damage the scraper. Waste channel Scraper Figure 7-45: Roller waste collector 9. Inspect the roller waste collector.
Page 111: Aligning The Print Heads
Objet30 User Guide Aligning the You should check the alignment of the print heads— Print Heads • once a month • if model quality is not acceptable even after cleaning the orifice plate on the bottom of the print block (see “Cleaning the Print Heads” on page 7‐22) The head‐alignment procedure takes about 20 minutes. To check the alignment of the print heads: 1. Prepare— • a transparency sheet, at least 10 × 16 centimeters in size (4.5 × 6.5 inches)—about one‐quarter of the standard A‐4 or Letter size • any type of sticky tape, to fasten the transparency sheet to the build tray 2. Start the Head Alignment wizard, from the Objet30 Options menu (see figure 7‐33 on page 26). 3. Click ...
Page 112 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 7. In the wizard screen, select the check box to confirm that the transparency sheet is on the build tray, and click Next The Objet30 printer prints the head alignment test on the transparency. 8. When the following screen appears, remove the transparency. Figure 7-45: Head Alignment wizard—steps 8–10 The transparency sheet is printed with sets of vertical lines in two rows, each showing the results from a different print head. Model head Support head Figure 7-46: Sample head-alignment test • The top row was printed by the head used for applying model material when producing models. • The bottom row was printed by the head used for applying support material. 9. Use a magnifying glass or loupe to inspect the transparency. Optimum head alignment is shown when the two #8 lines, in the upper ...
Page 113 Objet30 User Guide The first in a series of alignment screens appears. Figure 7-47: Head alignment screen 11. In the head‐alignment screen, select the number that indicates which lines align in the upper and lower rows. Note: Because the alignment of the middle lines is optimum, the number “8” is selected, by default, in the wizard screen. This does not change the head alignment. If you select other numbers, the wizard adjusts the head alignment, accordingly.
Page 114 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 14. In the final wizard screen, choose to either repeat the head alignment procedure or close the wizard. • If the most closely aligned vertical lines for a print head were at either extreme, choose Yes to run the head‐alignment wizard again, then click . Next The transparency test will show if the heads are now properly aligned, and—if not—the wizard will allow you to “fine tune” the alignment. • If the vertical lines for the print heads were not aligned at either extreme, choose No to close the wizard, then click Next Figure 7-49: Final wizard screen 7–34 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 115: Replacing Print Heads
Note: Weight tests are performed only by an authorized service engineer. Replacing print heads is expensive. Replace them only after attempting all other means for improving print quality (see “Improving Print Quality” on page 7-25) and after consulting with an Objet-authorized customer-support engineer. A wizard guides you through the procedure of replacing a print head, and ...
Page 116 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer To replace a print head: 1. Prepare— • replacement print head(s) • isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) • disposable safety gloves (included in the head replacement kit) • an Objet‐supplied cleaning cloth or equivalent • the scale supplied by Objet for use in the Weight Test Note: Make sure that you have these items before running the Head Replacement wizard. 2. Start the Head Replacement wizard from the Options menu of the ...
Page 117 Figure 7-52: Head Replacement warning screen 6. Click if you are ready to continue. Next 7. Open the Single Head Replacement kit, and remove the safety gloves and the instructions. 8. Put on the safety gloves. 9. When the following screen is displayed, open the Objet30 printer cover. Note: The Objet30 printer disconnects power to the heads for your safety. Figure 7-53: Replace the defective head when this screen appears 7–37 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 118 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Removing the Defective Head To replace the model print head, you must first remove the support print head. Support Print Head If you do not need to replace the model print head, continue with “Support Print Head” on page 40. 7–38 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 119 Objet30 User Guide Model Print Head Installing the New Head Model Print Head Important: Remove the protective tape from the surface of the new print head. 7–39 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 120 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Support Print Head Important: Remove the protective tape from the surface of the new print head. 10. In the Head(s) Replacement screen (see figure 7‐53 on page 37), select the check box to confirm that you have replaced the head(s), and click Next 7–40 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 121 Objet30 User Guide 11. Confirm that the heads are level and even by selecting the check box in the following wizard screen, and click Next Figure 7-54: Installation-check screen 12. In the next wizard screen, select the check box to confirm that you have removed all tools and objects from the printer. Figure 7-55: Cleared-tray confirmation screen 13. Close the printer cover. The wizard continues by filling the heads, then heating and purging them. If there are no installation problems, the weight calibration procedure begins (see “Weight Calibration” on page 7‐44). If a vacuum leakage is detected, or if there are other problems, the wizard alerts you and instructs you how to continue (see “Installation Problems,” next). 7–41 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 122 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Installation If the printer detects that there is a problem after you install print heads, Problems relevant warning screens appear. • If the print head you installed is not new—that is, it was previously removed from a printer—a message appears. Figure 7-56: Used print head message To continue with the installation of this print head, click To remove this print head and install a new one, click • If the printer software does not sense the replaced head, the following warning screen appears. Figure 7-57: Incorrect-installation screen, showing which head(s) to re-insert If this happens: a. Re‐insert the print‐head driver card into its socket. b. In the wizard screen, select the check box to confirm that you have re‐inserted the card, and click ...
Page 123 Objet30 User Guide • If the replacement head was not factory‐calibrated, the following warning screen appears. Figure 7-58: Invalid-data warning screen If this happens: a. Remove the head and replace it with another one. b. In the wizard screen, select the check box to confirm that you have installed another print head, and click Next c. Contact your authorized Objet Customer Support center about the unformatted head. • If the vacuum test is not successful, the replacement head was not sealed properly during installation, and the following warning screen appears. Figure 7-59: Vacuum Leakage warning screen If this happens: a. Click Next b. Follow the instructions on the wizard screens to re‐install the head. 7–43 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 124 Figure 7-60: Weight test progress screen 14. Carefully remove the samples for each head, keeping track of the head that printed them. Support Print Head Model Print Head Figure 7-61: Samples printed on the Objet30 printer build tray 15. Using the scale, weigh each sample and enter the weight (in grams) for the corresponding head in the wizard screen. 16. Close the printer cover, then click Next Figure 7-62: Weight Test data entry screen 7–44...
Page 125 Objet30 User Guide After the Objet30 printer calibrates itself, the last wizard screen appears. Figure 7-63: Final Head Replacement screen 17. After replacing print heads, you should check the head alignment before using the Objet30 printer to produce models. • Select and click to open the Head Alignment wizard (see Done “Aligning the Print Heads” on page 31). • Select and click to align the heads at another time. Done 18. In the final wizard screen, click Done 7–45 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 126: Calibrating The Load Cells
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Calibrating the Load cells are sensors that measure the weight of the printing cartridges Load Cells and the waste container in the printer. It is important that you periodically check that the weight measurements are accurate, both for convenience and to prevent unnecessary waste of printing materials. It is recommended that you calibrate the load cells once a month, with the Load Cell Calibration wizard. To calibrate load cells: 1. Start the Load Cell Calibration wizard. • From the Options menu of the printer interface (see figure 7‐33 on page 26), select Wizards > Load Cell Calibration 2. Select one or more load cells that you want to calibrate, and click Next Figure 7-64: Load cell selection Note: It is recommended that you routinely calibrate all of the load cells, after 500 hours of printing or once every six months.
Page 127 Objet30 User Guide 4. In the next wizard screen, observe the numbers and wait until the level is relatively stable—two units above or below the average level shown. Figure 7-66: Load cell calibration screen 5. Select the Weight is stable check box, and click Next If you need to calibrate more than one load cell, the next calibration screen appears. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until all of the load cells are calibrated. 6. Click in the final wizard screen. Done Figure 7-67: Final wizard screen If you removed the waste container, make sure to replace it with its metal cover, and make sure that the drain tube is not bent.
Page 128: Replacing The Odor Filter
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer Replacing the The Objet30 printer has an activated‐carbon filter for removing odors from Odor Filter printing materials. The filter should be replaced regularly (about once a year, as necessary) to keep your working environment pleasant. This is normally done during the yearly preventive‐maintenance service visit. To replace the odor filter: 1. Locate the filter drawer at the rear of the printer and pull it open. Odor filter drawer Figure 7-68: Rear of the Objet30 printer 2. Remove the used filter. (You can push it out from underneath the drawer.) Figure 7-69: Odor filter in drawer 3.
Page 129: Replacing The Uv Lamp
Objet30 User Guide Replacing the The UV lamp used for curing models has a long, but limited, working life. UV Lamp The Objet service engineer tests its effectiveness during regular maintenance checks, and replaces it, if necessary. If, for any reason, you need to replace the UV lamp, follow these instructions: 1. Make sure the Objet30 printer is in offline mode. Figure 7-70: Offline mode indicator (red) The online/offline button the printer interface should be red. If not, click it to switch the printer to offline mode. WARNING: Before continuing, make sure that the safety interlock in the printer cover is not defeated, and that the lamp is not hot.
Page 130 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 4. Disconnect the UV lamp cable and the fan cable. UV-lamp connector UV-fan connector Figure 7-72: Disconnecting the UV lamp assembly 5. Loosen the two side screws securing the UV lamp assembly to the printer. Securing screws Figure 7-73: UV-lamp-assembly 6. Remove the assembly, and place it on a flat surface. 7–50 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 131 Objet30 User Guide 7. Loosen the screws securing the UV lamp cover and remove the cover. Cover screws Figure 7-74: UV-lamp-cover screws 8. Loosen the two screws securing the UV reflector. Reflector screws Figure 7‐75: UV‐reflector screws 9. Remove the UV reflector by raising it slightly, then pulling it out of the housing at an angle, from the bottom. Figure 7-76: Removing the UV reflector from the UV assembly 7–51 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 132 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 10. Inspect the new lamp reflector, and make sure that a black strip is attached to the inside of it. If not, install one—on the side of the reflector opposite (not next to) the print block. Note: Extra black strips are included in the printer Start-up Kit. If necessary, you can remove the black strip from the old reflector and install it in the new reflector (as long as the black paint has not faded).
Page 133 Objet30 User Guide 18. In the wizard screen, confirm that you have replaced the lamp and that the black strip is attached, then click Next Figure 7-79: UV-installation confirmation screen The wizard operates the lamp to test if it is installed correctly. If the lamp does not light, the wizard prompts you to check the power connections and to re‐install the lamp. Figure 7-80: Final wizard screen 7–53 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 134: Replacing The Waste Container
The container has a capacity of 1.8 kilograms of waste material—usually enough for several weeks of printer use. The printer software displays a warning message when there is 1.5 kilograms of material in the container, and stops the printing when the net weight reaches 1.8 kilograms. Above 1.5 kilograms, the software does not allow you to start a print job (or a printing activity) until you replace the waste container. You can monitor the weight of the waste container in the Maintenance screen of the printer interface. To monitor the waste weight (and other indicators) in the Objet30 printer: In the main printer interface screen, click the display toggle to view the Objet30 printer indicators. Waste weight Display toggle button Figure 7-81: Objet30 printer interface, showing waste weight (red background indicates operator alert) The waste container consists of a sealed bag inside a cardboard box. You ...
Page 135 Objet30 User Guide To replace the waste container: 1. Open the materials drawer. 2. Remove the fireproof cover from the waste container. Figure 7-82: Removing the waste-container cover 3. Unscrew the cap securing the waste drain tube. 4. Carefully lift out the waste container to remove it from the printer. 5. Close the full container with a sealing cap. 6. Place the new waste container in the materials drawer, and attach the drain tube to it. While attaching the cap with the waste drain tube, hold the waste bag stationary. 7. Close the new waste‐container box. Figure 7-83: Waste container with drain tube attached 7–55...
Page 136: Cleaning The Exterior Panels
Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer 8. Place the fireproof cover over the waste container, making sure that the drain tube is free and not bent. Figure 7-84: Fireproof cover installed over the waste container Note: Operating the printer without the waste-container cover results in an inaccurate measurement of the waste weight, which will cause waste to overflow into the printer.
Page 137: Backing-Up And Restoring Printer Settings
Objet30 User Guide Backing-Up Printer modes and configuration settings are stored in files on the printer and Restoring computer. You can back up these files, and restore them, if necessary, using Printer desktop icons. Settings Figure 7-85: Backup and restore desktop icons ReInitiate One of the wizards listed in the Options menu is ReInitiate. You normally do Wizard not have to run this wizard. The process that this wizard controls runs automatically, when needed, as part of the Pre‐print mode (before printing begins). Run this wizard only if an Objet Customer Support engineer instructs you to do so. 7–57 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 139: Handling Printed Models
Handling Printed Models Removing Models After Printing............2 Removing the Support Material............2 Storing Models..................3 8–1 DOC-24000 Rev. C...
Page 140: Removing Models After Printing
Handling Printed Models Removing Models After Printing After printing models, you should allow them to cool as much as possible before handling them. If additional models do not have to be produced on the Objet30 printer, it is best to let the printed models cool in the printer, with the cover closed, as long as possible. If the Objet30 printer must be used to produce additional models as soon as possible: 1. Let the printed models cool on the build tray for at least 10 minutes. 2. Very carefully, remove the models from the tray with a scraper or spatula (supplied in the tool kit), taking care not to pry or bend the model. WARNING: Wear protective gloves when handling printed models before they are washed.
Page 141: Storing Models
Objet30 User Guide Figure 8-1: Objet WaterJet Cleaning Unit To clean a model using this device, you place it in the chamber, and you manipulate it and the jet using the built‐in, waterproof sleeves. A pump turns ordinary tap water into a high‐pressure jet, and a wiper keeps the window clear. Use caution when cleaning delicate models with high-pressure water systems. Removing Support Material with Caustic Soda Soak models in a 2‐percent solution of caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) to remove support material from difficult‐to‐reach areas and to give the model a smooth, clean finish. The amount of time you soak the model in the solution depends on how delicate it is and how much support material needs to be removed, but it is typically between half‐an‐hour and several hours. In any case, you should remove as much support material as possible before the caustic soda treatment, and rinse the model thoroughly (with a water jet) afterwards. WARNING: Caustic soda may cause chemical burns, scarring and blindness.

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Objet Objet30 User Manual

1 About this Guide

2 Safety

3 Introducing the Objet30 3-D Printing System

4 Installing Objet Software

5 Using Objet Studio

6 Using Job Manager

7 Operating & Maintaining the Objet30 3-D Printer

8 Handling Printed Models

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