Page 1 User Guide Objet30 3D Printing System DOC-34022 Rev. D1...
Page 2 This documentation contains proprietary information of Stratasys Ltd. This information is supplied solely to assist authorized users of Objet30 3D printing systems. No part of this document may be used for other purposes, and it may not be disclosed to other parties.
Page 3 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 Stratasys Ltd. http://www.stratasys.com DOC-34022 Revision D1 July 2016 DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 4: Table Of Contents
For More Information Terms Used in This Guide 2 Safety Safety Features Symbols and Warning Labels Safety Guidelines Printer Installation Printer Operation UV Radiation Printer Maintenance Model and Support Materials UV Lamps First Aid for Working with Printing Materials Contact with Skin Contact with Eyes Ingestion Inhalation Waste Disposal 3 Introducing the Objet30 3D Printing System Welcome to Objet Studio Work Configurations Source Files STL Files SLC Files Printing Materials Storage Shelf Life Exposure to Light Safety Considerations Disposal Work Environment Workstation Requirements Preparing Files for Use with PolyJet 3D Printing Systems Converting CAD Files to STL Format Converting CAD Files to SLC Format Objet Studio Software 4 Installing Objet Studio How to Install Objet Studio...
Page 5 5 Using Objet Studio Launching Objet Studio Windows® 7 Security Warning Objet Studio Interface Ribbon Commands Objet Studio Commands Menu Model Tree Pane Preparing Models for Production 5-10 OBJDF Files: Overview 5-10 Model Files 5-10 Placing Objects on the Build Tray 5-10 Opening Objet Tray Files 5-14 Quick-Access Model Commands 5-16 Selecting Objects 5-17 Copying and Pasting Objects 5-17 Surface Finish 5-18 Positioning Objects on the Build Tray 5-19 Automatic Orientation 5-19 Automatic Positioning 5-20 Manual Positioning 5-21 Manipulating Objects on the Tray 5-23 Positioning Objects on the Z-Axis 5-23 Valid Object Placement 5-24 Using a Grid to Position Objects 5-25 Measurement Units...
Page 6 Job Manager Screen 5-65 Setting the Printer Connection 5-67 Off-line Mode 5-68 Setting the Remote Printer Connection (Client Mode) 5-72 Job Manager Commands 5-72 Configuring User Alerts 5-75 Printing from the Jobs Queue 5-76 Additional Server Features 5-77 Resuming Jobs 5-79 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Starting the P rinter Loading Model and Support Cartridges Producing Models Preparing the Printer Printer Interface Color Key 6-10 Printing Indicators 6-11 Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped 6-12 Changing the Printing Material 6-14 Keeping the Printer in Idle Mode 6-20 Shutting Down the Printer 6-21 Shutdown Wizard 6-22 Material Flush/Fill Wizard...
Page 7 Replacing the Waste Container 6-96 Cleaning the Exterior Panels 6-98 Backing-Up and Restoring Printer Settings 6-99 ReInitiate Wizard 6-99 Preventive Maintenance Tasks 6-99 7 Handling Printed Models Removing Models After Printing Removing the Support Material Post-Printing Treatment for Models Made with VeroClear Photo-Bleaching Instructions Storing Models DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 8: Using This Guide
About This Guide Using This Guide For More Information Terms Used in This Guide DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 9: For More Information
Objet30 User Guide 1 About This Guide Using This Guide This user guide provides instructions for installing, operating and maintaining Objet30 3D printing systems. It explains how to use features, and provides practical examples to guide you as you use the system. The text and figures in this guide are based on the Objet30 3D printer, printer software version 33.2 and Objet Studio software version 9.2. This document is meant to be used with Objet30 3D printers, running software version 33.2, and with Objet Studio software version 9.2. 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.stratasys.com/ to download additional documents for this printer, including documents in other languages. Also available on this site: details about consumables and support contacts. If you have any questions or comments about the way information is presented in this document, or if you have any suggestions for future editions, please send a message to c-support@stratasys.com. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 10: Terms Used In This Guide
Objet30 User Guide 1 About This Guide Terms Used in This Guide In Objet Studio software: The surface displayed on the screen Build tray that represents the actual build tray in the printer. In the printer: The surface upon which models are produced. Cleaning fluid Cleanser for flushing material feed tubes and the printing block, used to completely remove Model and Support material from the system before loading another type of material in the printer and before long-term shutdown. The cleaning fluid is supplied in standard material cartridges. Client/user workstation The workstation on which s oftware is installed for preparing build trays for production on PolyJet printers. (There is no limit to the number of client workstations in the local network.) host/server workstation The workstation that interfaces directly with the Objet30 printer and is typically positioned next to it.
Page 11: Safety Features
Safety Safety Features Symbols and Warning Labels Safety Guidelines Printer Installation Printer Operation UV Radiation Printer Maintenance Model and Support Materials UV Lamps First Aid for Working with Printing Materials Contact with Skin Contact with Eyes Ingestion Inhalation Waste Disposal DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 12 Objet30 User Guide 2 Safety Safety Features Stratasys 3D printers are designed to comply with CE and FCC standards. They are equipped with the following safety features: The power supplied to the UV lamp and the motion motors is Cover Interlock Switch turned off when the cover is opened. Warning Do not defeat (override) the interlock switch. Doing so could result in serious personal injury. If the interlock switch does not function correctly, do not use the printer, and contact your service provider. Safety Lock Warning Do not defeat (override) the safety lock. Doing so could result in serious personal injury. If the safety lock does not function correctly, do not use the printer, and contact your service provider. The transparent section of the cover blocks harmful UV UV Screening radiation, allowing the operator to view the model as it is being ...
Page 13 Objet30 User Guide 2 Safety Figure 2-1 Front and back views of the Objet30 printer If the Objet30 3D printing system is not used as specified in this guide, the safety features may not provide adequate protection. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 14 Objet30 User Guide 2 Safety Symbols and Warning Labels This following table lists the warning labels located on or in Objet30 printers. Warning Symbol Meaning Location Comments Hazard (general) On the name plate on the Read the instructions in back of the printer. this document before operating the printer. Hot surface On the print block. Risk of burns. Do not 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. Moving parts On top of the printing Risk of injury from moving ...
Page 15 Objet30 User Guide 2 Safety Safety Guidelines The following general guidelines, together with the instructions provided throughout this user guide, ensure user safety while operating and maintaining the system. If the system is not operated as specified, the user's safety may be compromised. Printer ➢ Installation and removal of the printer should only be done by qualified Installation service personnel. ➢ Connect the printer (and the UPS unit) 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 might expose the operator to serious danger from electric shock. ➢ The following safety statement is followed by translations to Finish, Norwegian, Swedish and Danish, as required by local regulations: ...
Page 16 Objet30 User Guide 2 Safety 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 Stratasys service provider. Printer ➢ Service operations should be performed only by qualified personnel who Maintenance have been instructed in relevant safety precautions. ➢ Notify co-workers and those who have access to the Objet30 system before beginning non-routine and hazardous work. Report any potential dangers and safety-related accidents to your safety officer or to other appropriate authorities. Model and Support materials are made of chemical substances. Although Model and precautions must be taken when handling these materials directly, all Model Support and Support materials used by the Objet30 system are handled in sealed Materials cartridges. Normally, operators of the 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 Model and Support materials indoors, in a dry area with adequate ventilation, between 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77 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 ...
Page 17 Objet30 User Guide 2 Safety UV Lamps UV lamps used by the printer to cure printing materials contain a small amount of mercury. In the unlikely event of lamp breakage, avoid inhaling mercury vapor, and ventilate the room. If the lamp ruptures (breaks) during operation, leave the room and ventilate it thoroughly for about 30 minutes. Use protective gloves to prevent contact with mercury and other lamp components. Carefully remove spilled mercury with a method that prevents the generation of mercury vapor, such as a syringe, packing tape or paper. Place the broken lamp, mercury and contaminated materials in an air-tight, non-metallic container. Dispose of the container in accordance with applicable regulations. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 18 Objet30 User Guide 2 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. The Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) that accompanies printing materials contains important safety information. Keep this in an accessible place where these materials are used and stored. 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. ...
Page 19: Inhalation
Objet30 User Guide 2 Safety Inhalation Vapors from printing materials can be irritating to the respiratory system. If respiratory irritation occurs, expose the victim to fresh air immediately. ➢ If the victim has stopped breathing, perform artificial respiration or cardiopulmonary resuscitation. ➢ Seek medical attention immediately. ➢ Keep the victim warm but not hot. ➢ Never feed anything to an unconscious person. ➢ Oxygen should be administered by authorized personnel only. Waste Disposal Fully cured printed models can be disposed of as ordinary office trash. However, special care is required when handling printer waste (uncured printing material). ➢ When removing the waste container from the Objet30 printer, wear Printing Materials 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. ...
Page 20: Welcome To Objet Studio
Introducing the Objet30 3D Printing System Welcome to Objet Studio Work Configurations Source Files STL Files SLC Files Printing Materials Storage Shelf Life Exposure to Light Safety Considerations Disposal Work Environment Workstation Requirements Preparing Files for Use with PolyJet 3D Printing Systems 3-7 Converting CAD Files to STL Format Converting CAD Files to SLC Format Objet Studio Software DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 21 Objet30 User Guide 3 Introducing the Objet30 3D Printing System Welcome to Objet Studio Figure 3-1 The Objet30 3D Printer Work Configurations The Objet30 3D 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 f or production. A server, typically next to the 3D printer, sends jobs to the printer for production. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 22 Objet30 User Guide 3 Introducing the Objet30 3D Printing System Figure 3-2 shows the Objet30 printer set up in a multi-client configuration. Figure 3-2 Multi-client network configuration When jobs are sent to the printer, Job Manager, on the server computer, arranges them 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 printer, and can prioritize jobs, delete jobs, review job history and reprint jobs. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 23 Objet30 User Guide 3 Introducing the Objet30 3D Printing System Source Files PolyJet printing systems produce three-dimensional models designed with most CAD tools and some other 3D applications. Supported file formats: • STL • SLC Objet30 systems feature the capability of producing different types of model files simultaneously. STL is short for Standard Triangulation Language. This language views any STL Files 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 can be ASCII (text) files or binary files. The content of the ASCII 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 should be positive and should fall within the volume of the model. SLC is short for Stereo-Lithography Contour. SLC files describe two- SLC Files dimensional contours of the three-dimensional models. These contour lines ...
Page 24 Objet30 User Guide 3 Introducing the Objet30 3D 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 For up-to-date information about PolyJet printing materials and their properties, go to http://www.stratasys.com/materials/polyjet. Materials used for printing models with Objet30 printers are made of resins, Storage 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 guidelines to protect operators and the environment, and to ensure optimum results. • To ensure product stability, do not allow these materials to come into contact with metal. Plastics made from monomer-soluble substances (such as polystyrene or polyvinyl chloride) are not suitable for storing PolyJet printing materials. • When not in use, keep material cartridges tightly sealed to prevent contamination, the effects of exposure to UV radiation, and accidental spillage. • Store material cartridges indoors, in a dry area with adequate ventilation, between 15–25 degrees Celsius (59-77 degrees Fahrenheit). If exposed to heat or flames, cartridges might burst or ignite. • Signs of premature polymerization in material cartridges include bulging, leaking, the emission of heat, and unusual odor. Exposure to heat can cause resin to gel in the cartridges. • Make sure that material cartridges are stored in accordance with all local ...
Page 25: Work Environment
Objet30 User Guide 3 Introducing the Objet30 3D Printing System Safety Before being cured, resins are hazardous materials. To prevent possible health Considerations 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 2-5 "First Aid for Working with Printing Materials" on page 2-8 Dispose of cartridges of model and support material in accordance with all Disposal applicable laws and regulations. If necessary, the cartridges can be disassembled for recycling. Work Environment Extreme heat and humidity conditions can adversely affect the operation of the Objet30 3D printer. 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 requirements for client computers running PolyJet Studio are listed in the Objet30 Site Preparation Guide. ...
Page 26: Preparing Files For Use With Polyjet 3D Printing Systems
Objet30 User Guide 3 Introducing the Objet30 3D Printing System Preparing Files for Use with PolyJet 3D Printing Systems Before using design files with Stratasys 3D printing systems, make sure that they are in a supported file format. (For an explanation of these file formats, see "Source Files" on page 3-4.) 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)* * OrthoDesk printers—100.0 mm (3.94 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)* * OrthoDesk printers—97.9 mm (3.85 inches) Converting This procedure may vary slightly, depending on the CAD software used, but ...
Page 27 Objet30 User Guide 3 Introducing the Objet30 3D Printing System Converting When converting files to SLC format, it is recommended that you set a layer CAD Files to thickness of 15 microns (0.015 mm). Since SLC files cannot be orientated in SLC Format Objet Studio, it is important that models are properly orientated before being saved as SLC files. Considerations for suitable model orientation are explained in "Manual Positioning" in Chapter 3 on page 5-21. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 28: Objet Studio Software
Objet30 User Guide 3 Introducing the Objet30 3D Printing System Objet Studio Software The Objet Studio program for the Objet30 3D printing system consists of two main screens: • Tray Settings / Model Settings • Job Manager Tray Settings / Model Settings In the Tray Settings and Model Settings screens, you prepare source files for production in Objet30 3D printers. Objet Studio offers you a wide variety of file-preparation options, but always consists of the following basic procedure: 1. Placing one or more objects on the build tray 2. Positioning the object(s) on the tray 3. Configuring object and tray parameters 4. Saving the tray configuration as an objtf (tray format) file 5. Sending the objtf file to the Objet30 3D printer for production Using Objet Studio to perform these tasks is described in detail in Chapter 5, "Using Objet Studio". Job Manager The Job Manager screen is different for client workstations and for the computer connected directly to the Objet30 3D printer. ...
Page 29: 4 Installing Objet Studio
Installing Objet Studio How to Install Objet Studio Objet30 Dental Prime Version DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 30: Printer Installation 2
Objet30 User Guide 4 Installing Objet Studio How to Install Objet Studio Objet Studio software is installed during printer installation. This section is provided in case you need to reinstall Objet Studio, or install it on a remote (client) computer. The Objet Studio setup wizard guides you when installing this software. Objet Studio is installed on the printer-server (“host”) computer, but it can also be installed on remote, “client” computers and on computers used to prepare files for printing models, or for training and demonstration purposes. During installation, you choose to install either the printer-server (“host”) application or the client application. To install Objet Studio software: 1. Connect the USB flash drive (supplied with the printer) to a USB port. 2. On t he U SB flash drive navigate to the Objet Studio installation file, and run it. 3. If you are installing an Objet Studio upgrade, make sure that your printer is compatible with it by checking the list displayed. Figure 4-1 Objet Studio compatibility check DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 31 Objet30 User Guide 4 Installing Objet Studio 4. To install Objet Studio, you must agree to the license agreement. After reading its terms, click Yes to continue, or No to close the wizard. If you click Yes, the following screen should appear. Figure 4-2 Objet Studio installation wizard—Welcome screen 5. Click Next to begin installation. 6. In the Select Features screen, select the required installation option. Select Objet Studio for a server computer— ❒ if you are installing Objet Studio on the server (“host”) computer—the computer directly connected to an Objet30 printer. ❒ if you are installing Objet Studio on a standalone (off-line) computer. Select Objet Studio for client workstations if you are installing Objet Studio on a “client” workstation—a remote computer that prepares print jobs and then sends them to a server computer. Figure 4-3 Objet Studio configuration selection DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 32 Objet30 User Guide 4 Installing Objet Studio 7. In the Select Installation Folder screen, verify the destination folder and click Next. It is recommended that you do not change the default destination folder. Click Disk Space to check the space in the destination folder. Figure 4-4 Objet Studio installation-folder selection 8. In the Confirm Installation screen, click Next to begin installation. 9. In the Select Printer Type screen, select the 3D printer used for producing models and click Next. Figure 4-5 Printer selection For Alaris30U printers, select Objet30 For Alaris30 Pro printers, select Objet30Pro For Objet30 Dental Prime, select Objet30 Prime DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 33 Objet30 User Guide 4 Installing Objet Studio Installation begins and a progress bar appears, showing the progress of the installation process. Figure 4-6 Installation progress bar When i nstallation is complete, the final InstallShield wizard screen appears. Figure 4-7 Final installation screen 10. Restart the computer to complete the software installation. The installation process ends when the appropriate icon(s) appear on the computer desktop: • Objet Studio • Stop Job Manager (for servers and standalone stations) Objet30 Dental For Objet30 Dental Prime printers, install the Objet30 Dental Prime software Prime Version update (available on the USB flash drive supplied with the printer) immediately after installing Objet Studio. To install the software update: 1. Connect the USB flash drive (supplied with the printer) to the computer. 2. Right-click the Start button and select Explore (or use any other method for displaying files on the computer). DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 34 Objet30 User Guide 4 Installing Objet Studio 3. In the USB flash drive folder, navigate to the sofware section and run the Objet30 Dental Prime Software Update for Objet Studio. 4. When the following screen appears, select the number appropriate for your operating system and press Enter. Figure 4-8 Windows command screen during software update 5. When the process is finished, press any key to close the Windows command screen. How to Uninstall Objet Studio If there is ever a need to uninstall the Objet Studio software, do not attempt to do so from the Windows Control Panel. (This does not completely remove all software components.) Instead— ➢ From the Start menu, select All Programs > Stratasys > Uninstall Objet Studio. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 35 Using Objet Studio Launching Objet Studio Windows® 7 Security Warning Objet Studio Interface Ribbon Commands Objet Studio Commands Menu Model Tree Pane Preparing Models for Production 5-10 OBJDF Files: Overview 5-10 Model Files 5-10 Placing Objects on the Build Tray 5-10 Opening Objet Tray Files 5-14 Quick-Access Model Commands 5-16 Selecting Objects 5-17 Copying and Pasting Objects 5-17 Surface Finish 5-18 Positioning Objects on the Build Tray 5-19 Automatic Orientation 5-19 Automatic Positioning 5-20 Manual Positioning 5-21 Manipulating Objects on the Tray 5-23 Positioning Objects on the Z-Axis 5-23 Valid Object Placement 5-24 Using a Grid to Position Objects 5-25...
Page 36 Screen Layout 5-33 Tray Perspective 5-34 Setting Object Colors 5-36 Loading Large Files 5-36 Large File Manipulation 5-37 Zoom Options 5-39 Handling Trays 5-40 Tray Validation 5-40 Printing Modes 5-41 Production Estimates 5-42 E-mailing Objet Digital Files 5-42 Printing the Tray 5-42 Applying Additional Objet Studio Features 5-44 Dividing Objects 5-44 Choosing the Support Strength 5-45 “Hollow”— Filling Models with Support Material 5-46 Displaying the Cross Section of Objects 5-47 Saving the Screen Display as an Image File 5-48 Saving and Importing Build Trays 5-49 OBJTF Files 5-49 OBJZF ...
Page 37 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Launching Objet Studio After you install Objet Studio, a launch icon appears on the Windows desktop. Open the application by double-clicking this icon, or by selecting Objet Studio from the Start menu. Open Objet Studio by double-clicking the icon on your desktop, or by selecting Objet Studio from the Start menu. ® ® Depending on the User Account Control settings in Windows 7, you might Windows see the following warning when opening Objet Studio. Security Warning Figure 5-1 Security Warning If you click Yes, Objet Studio opens. However, this warning message will appear each time you open the program, unless you change the User Account Control settings. To prevent the warning message from appearing again: 1. Click the link at the bottom of the security warning dialog box (Change when these notifications appear). DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 38 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio 2. In the User Account Control Settings screen, move the slider to Never notify. Figure 5-2 Changing the User Account Control settings 3. Click OK. 4. In the following dialog box, click Yes. Figure 5-3 Confirming the change in the User Account Control settings DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 39 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Objet Studio When Objet Studio opens, the Tray Settings screen appears, showing an Interface empty build tray. Figure 5-4 Objet Studio opening screen The Objet Studio interface consists of two main screens: • Tray Settings—for arranging models and preparing them for printing. • Job Manager—for monitoring and managing print jobs. This screen is described in "Monitoring and Managing Print Jobs" on page 5-64. Each screen is controlled by menus and icons on its own ribbon. An additional ribbon, Model Settings, displays controls for configuring and manipulating selected models. Objet Studio anticipates your workflow by displaying and enabling the options relevant to your current task. For example, when you first open Objet Studio, the Model Settings ribbon is disabled until you place a model on the build tray. Similarly, options available from the standard toolbar menus are enabled or disabled to match the current workflow. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 40 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio The ribbon, colors used, and several other interface features can be customized. How to change the appearance of the interface is explained in "Customizing Objet Studio" on page 5-50. Instructions for using the commands for preparing models for production and sending jobs to the printer, appear later in this chapter. Figure 5-5 Tray Settings ribbon Figure 5-6 Model Settings ribbon DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 41 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Ribbon The following table lists the Tray Settings and Model Settings ribbon Commands command groups, and shows when they are enabled, and where they appear. Group Purpose When enabled Tray Model Settings Settings Ribbon Ribbon Setting display colors. Always. Selecting perspective Models are on and zoom level. the build tray. Choose to select a Models are on plane.
Page 42 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Group Purpose When enabled Tray Model Settings Settings Ribbon Ribbon Pre-build/build Models are on commands. the build tray. Setting model A model is dimensions. selected. Cutting, copying, A model is pasting and deleting selected. models.
Page 43 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Objet Studio Clicking the icon in the upper-left corner opens the Objet Studio Commands Commands menu. This menu displays basic application commands and Menu options. Figure 5-7 Objet Studio Commands menu The Options button opens a dialog box for customizing Objet Studio. Figure 5-8 Options dialog box Model Tree The Model Tree pane lists the objects placed on the build tray. By default, the Pane pane “floats”— that is, you can move it to another position on the screen and resize it. Alternatively, you can fix its position at the left of the application window, and even hide it. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 44: Stl Files 3
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Preparing Models for Production Model preparation involves the following basic steps: 1. Place objects on the build tray. 2. If necessary, manipulate the object’s orientation and position. 3. Select the material and model finish. An objdf file describes both the geometry of a single object and the material, OBJDF Files: and finish required to print it. Overview You can use this file format to save a group of separate objects on the build tray as one unit, together with their relative positions and material. Further explanations of objdf files, and their features, appear throughout this chapter. To produce models, you open one or more model files in Objet Studio and Model Files position objects on the build tray. You can place objects on the build tray in two ways: You can place objects on the build tray in several ways: • by inserting individual stl 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 5-9 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. The material selected can also ...
Page 45 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio The Insert dialog box appears. Figure 5-10 Insert dialog box 2. In the Look in field, display the appropriate folder. 3. In the Files of type field, select the file type to display. 4. Select the desired file, and make sure that it appears in the File name field. If the Preview check box is selected, the object is displayed in the dialog box, as shown in Figure 5-10. The Model Settings ribbon is displayed when objects are placed on the build tray. 5. Select any of the following options, as required: ❒ Units—Millimeters or inches for the object’s units of measure. The 3D 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. Otherwise, the size of the object on the build tray will be either much too large or much too small. To change the measurement units of objects already placed on the tray, see "Measurement Units" on page 5-26. ❒ Number of copies—How many copies of this object to place on the build tray. ❒ Orient Automatically—Automatically orient objects on the build tray for efficient model building.
Page 46 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio These dimensions correspond to the virtual “bounding box” surrounding the object see Figure 5-36 on page 5-32). 6. Click Insert. Objet Studio places the object on the build tray, and in the model tree. Figure 5-11 Default screen layout The Model Settings ribbon is displayed when objects are placed on the build tray. If the object is over a certain size, the Loading Placed Elements dialog box appears. Figure 5-12 Loading Placed Elements dialog box You can speed up the opening of large files by changing the Large Files settings—see "Loading Large Files" on page 5-36. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-12...
Page 47: Printing Materials 3
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Opening objdf Files Before placing objdf files on the build tray, Objet Studio must extract the component stl files together with information about their relative position and model materials. To do this, Objet Studio creates a folder with the same name as the objdf file, in the same location. If you are opening an objdf file, the Insert dialog box also includes a Materials field that shows the object’s printing material assignment (see below). Figure 5-13 Insert dialog box (objdf file) DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-13...
Page 48 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Opening Objet You can open trays that were saved as objtf files. (Saving objtf is described in Tray Files "Saving and Importing Build Trays" on page 5-49). To place an object saved as an Objet Tray File (objtf) file on the build tray: 1. From the File group, click or— From the Objet Studio Commands menu , select Open. The Open dialog box is displayed. Figure 5-14 Objet Tray File Open dialog box 2. Select the desired file, and make sure that it appears in the File name field. If the Preview check box is selected, the object is displayed. 3. Click Open. Objet Studio opens the tray file. The objtf file is actually a file containing instructions for printing—which stl files to print and their position on the build tray. Because the objtf file references the stl files used, they must remain in the same file location as when the objtf file was saved. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-14...
Page 49 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio STL file loading If there are identically named stl files in more than one location, you need to preference ensure that the correct component stl files are linked to the objtf file. For example, if there are identically named stl files on one drive and on a flash drive (this can occur if you copy the original files to a working folder), you can set the default location from which files are loaded. To set the Load Order: 1. From the Tools menu, select Options. or— In the Objet Studio Commands menu , click Options. 2. In the Options dialog box, display the Settings tab. Figure 5-15 Options dialog box, Settings tab 3. Under Load Search Order, select an option: ❒ Local—to load files from the location where they were last saved. ❒ Original—to load files in their original location. 4. Click OK. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-15...
Page 50 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Quick-Access You can access common commands for working with objects on the build Model tray with the convenient Model Toolbar and context menus. Commands Model Toolbar Select an object in the tray to display the Model Toolbar that contains icons to perform common tasks. Figure 5-16 Model Toolbar The table below describes the Model Toolbar icons. Icon Description Applies a matte finish to the model. Applies a glossy finish to the model. Opens the Advanced Properties dialog box for setting the Grid Style and the Hollow option. Enables dragging an object (see page 5-27). Opens the Transform dialog box for changing the object’s position and scale. Toggles the Lock Model Orientation setting. If you right-click on an object, a pop-up context menu is displayed from Right-click which you can also select the model finish, change its position and scale, and model menu set the Grid Style and Hollow options. You can also create a Quick Access toolbar with your most commonly used icons grouped together. See "Creating a Quick Access Toolbar" on page 5-50. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 51 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Selecting To manipulate an object on the build tray or assign characteristics to it Objects (building style, for example), you must first select the object. You select an object by clicking it, either on the tray or in the model tree. Its image on the build tray changes color (to light blue, by default) and its name is highlighted in the model tree. You can select multiple objects by drawing a box around them with the mouse cursor, or by pressing the Ctrl or Shift keys while clicking additional objects. Alternatively, select or de-select objects using the following Edit menu commands: • Select All • Invert Selection • Undo Select object Figure 5-17 Edit menu If you need to duplicate objects on the build tray, you can insert the same Copying and object from its file more than once. An easier way, however, is to copy and Pasting paste the object. You can copy objects from the build tray or the model tree. Objects The objects copied remain in the Windows clipboard until you paste them onto the build tray. You can also copy objects from one tray and paste them onto another, in the same way as you copy text from one document and paste it into another one. However, Objet Studio allows only one tray to be open at a time. For each build tray you need to work with (at the same time), you must open a separate Objet Studio window, by running the application again (from the 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 ...
Page 52 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio • You can manipulate mirror images of the original object, and flip them on selected axes. Figure 5-18 Paste Special dialog box Surface Finish Models can be printed with a matte or glossy surface finish. To create a matte finish, the printer surrounds models with a thin layer of support material. To set the model finish: 1. Select the model. 2. Select Matte or Glossy in one of the following places: ❒ Model Settings ribbon, Options group ❒ Model Toolbar ❒ right-click context menu (when selecting the model) You can configure Objet Studio to distinguish between objects’ surface finish on the build tray by color. To configure how Objet Studio displays objects, see "Setting Object Colors" on page 5-36. Before placing objects on the build tray in Objet Studio, you should pay attention to the material selection settings on the Tray Settings ribbon. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-18...
Page 53 Objet30 User Guide 5 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 tray. Objet Studio supports the automatic positioning of objects. However, you should check to make sure that the objects are orientated optimally for your needs, according to the considerations explained in "Manual Positioning" on page 5-21. Two things that affect the positioning of objects on the tray are orientation and placement. You can let Objet Studio determine the optimum orientation and position, or you can control them. By default, Objet Studio automatically orients objects, when placed on the Automatic build tray, for the shortest printing time. (You can later change the Orientation orientation manually.) However, you can cancel automatic orientation when placing an object on the build tray. To place an object on the build tray without automatic orientation: ➢ In the Insert dialog box, make sure Orient Automatically is not selected. Figure 5-19 Orient Automatically option disabled You can change the default setting, so that automatic orientation is not applied unless you select the Orient Automatically check box each time you place an object on the build tray. To do this, see "Default Settings" on page 5-58. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 54 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Automatic After placing several objects on the build tray, you can let Objet Studio Positioning arrange them before printing. This ensures that the objects are positioned properly, and that they will be printed in the shortest time and with a minimum of material. To automatically arrange objects on the build tray: ➢ On the Tray Settings ribbon, click or— From the Tools menu, select Automatic Placement. The effects of automatic positioning are shown in the figures below. Figure 5-20 Tray before objects are properly arranged Figure 5-21 Tray arrangement after applying Automatic Placement For best results, arrange the tray with Automatic Placement,on the TraySettings ribbon, even if you inserted the objects with the Orient Automatically option. ...
Page 55 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Manual You can change the position of objects on the build tray—even if they were Positioning inserted with the Orient Automatically option. Tools for changing the position of objects are presented in "Manipulating Objects on the Tray" on page 5-23. The orientation of models on the build tray affects how quickly and efficiently they will be produced by the printer, where and how much Support material is used, and whether or not model parts will have a glossy finish. Therefore, you should consider a variety of factors when deciding how to place models on the build tray, using the following positioning rules. X-Y-Z Rule This rule considers a model's 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 object's largest dimension along the X-axis. ➢ Any surfaces that come into contact with Support materials become matte. ➢ Since models are built up, on the Z-axis, in 15–36-micron layers (according to the printing mode), it is very time-consuming to print a tall object. From this point of view, it is advisable to place the object's 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 object's intermediate dimension along the Y-axis. Tall-Left Rule This rule considers models where, after being orientated on the build tray ...
Page 56 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Recess-Up Rule This rule considers models containing surface recesses. ➢ Recesses in the surface (like hollows, drill holes, etc.) should, when possible, be positioned face-up. Fine-Surface Rule This rule considers models that have one side on which there are fine details (like the keypad side of a telephone). ➢ The side of the model containing fine details should, when possible, be positioned face-up. This results in a smooth finish. Avoid Support-Material Rule This rule considers models that have large holes or hollows, open on at least one side (like a pipe or a container). ➢ It may be advantageous to print a model standing up, so Support material does not fill the hollow, even though printing the model lying down would be much faster. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-22...
Page 57 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Manipulating Objects on the Tray Positioning When you use the automatic positioning option to arrange objects on the Objects on the build tray (see "Automatic Orientation" on page 5-19), the objects are Z-Axis positioned directly on the tray. If you do not insert objects with automatic positioning, they often appear either above or below the tray. In practice, the Objet 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. To position objects directly on the tray: 1. Select the object. 2. From the Object menu, select Lay On. To ensure that objects are always positioned directly on the tray: 1. From the Tools menu, select Options, and display the Settings tab. Figure 5-22 Options dialog box, Settings tab 2. In the Automatic Lay On (Gravity) section, select Always. ...
Page 58 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Valid Object You can ensure that models do not overlap when you position them on the Placement build tray, and that they do not extend beyond the tray. To ensure valid object placement: 1. From the Tools menu, select Constraints Settings. Figure 5-23 Constraints Settings dialog box 2. Select Dynamic check to identify— ❒ invalid object placement while placing objects—On Drop selected. ❒ invalid object placement after moving objects—While Drag selected. ❒ objects placed beyond the tray’s boundaries—Outside Tray selected. ❒ objects that overlap—Object Collision selected. Even if you do not use Dynamic Check 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 ...
Page 59 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Using a Grid to Displaying a grid on the image of the build tray can be useful when Position positioning objects. To use the grid features, select the following menu Objects options. Menu Option Result Tools > Grid Displays a grid on the build tray. Tools > Snap to grid When moving the object, it aligns with the nearest grid line. Tools > Options > Grid Enables you to change the grid origin (X- and Y-axis meeting point) and appearance. You can review and configure grid settings—and apply them—from the Options dialog box. To view and change grid settings: 1. From the Tools menu, select Options, and display the Grid tab. The current grid settings are displayed. Figure 5-24 Options dialog box, Grid tab 2. As required, change the settings, and select or clear the check boxes. 3. Click Apply or OK. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-25...
Page 60 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Measurement 3D files contain an object's proportions, but not its units of measure. Units Therefore, make sure to correctly select either millimeters or inches when inserting an object. Otherwise, the size of the object on the build tray will be either much too large or much too small. To set the measurement units when inserting an object: ➢ In the Insert dialog box, Units field, select Millimeter or Inch: Figure 5-25 Units field in the Insert dialog box To change measurement units for a selected object from the Model Settings ribbon: 1. Open the Units flyout toolbar. Figure 5-26 Units flyout toolbar 2. Select the measurement units desired. To change measurement units for a selected object from the standard toolbar: 1. From the Object menu, select Change Units. Figure 5-27 Model Units dialog box 2. In the Model Units dialog box, change the setting and click OK. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-26...
Page 61 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Setting Model You can change an object’s dimensions by changing its size on the X-, Y-, and Dimensions Z-axes, from the Dimensions group on the Model Settings ribbon. Figure 5-28 Dimensions on the Model Settings ribbon • If Uniform Scale is enabled, changing the object’s dimension on one axis affects the other dimensions, proportionately. • After changing a measurement, press Enter or click in another field in the Dimensions group. Note: You can change the height of the objects on the build tray only if this is allowed by the Objet Studio settings (see "Positioning Objects on the Z-Axis" on page 5-23). The recommended minimum size for each object on the build tray is 800 mm (on the X-axis) and 130 mm (on the Y-axis). Although smaller objects can be printed, these minimum dimensions ensure good print quality. Repositioning You can manually move and rotate an object on the build tray with the arrow Objects keys, or by dragging it with the mouse. To manually manipulate an object: 1. Select an object by clicking it on the build tray, or in the model tree pane. 2. Click on the Model Toolbar, or on the Model Settings ribbon.
Page 62 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio 3. If you click on a corner of the frame, the cursor changes to indicate that the object can be rotated. Figure 5-30 Manually rotating an object 4. Manipulate the object with the arrow keys or with the mouse. Using the You can make precise changes to an object by changing the properties in the Transform Transform dialog box. Dialog Box To access the Transform dialog box (when an object is selected): • Click on the Model Toolbar or on the Model Settings ribbon. • From the right-click context menu, select Transform. • From the Object menu, select Transform. Figure 5-31 Transform dialog box To change an object with the Transform dialog box: ➢ Change any of the values, then click Apply to see how the object changes on the build tray. Note: The changed values remain in the dialog box after clicking Apply. Therefore, you can make small changes to values in the dialog box to see how the object changes on screen each time you click Apply. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-28...
Page 63 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio To reset all of the values in the dialog box: ➢ Click Reset. Note: The object does not change. Any changes previously applied remain. To undo all changes made with the Transform dialog box: ➢ Click Cancel Actions. After closing the Transform dialog box, clicking Undo (on the Model Settings ribbon or from the Edit menu) cancels all changes made with the dialog box. 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 Object menu options (see also "Repositioning Objects" on page 5-27). To re-align an object’s plane: 1. On the Tray Settings or Model Settings ribbon, click or— From the Tools menu, select Plane Alignment > Select Plane. 2. Click on part of an object on the build tray. The selected plane is displayed. Figure 5-32 Aligning by plane DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 64 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio 3. On the Alignment toolbar, click an appropriate icon to change the alignment. or— From the Tools menu, select Plane Alignment, and select an alignment option. Figure 5-33 Tools menu, Plane Alignment options To cancel plane selection after re-aligning objects on the build tray: ➢ On the Tray Settings or Model Settings ribbon, click or— ➢ From the Tools menu, select Plane Alignment > Select Plane. To flip an object 180 degrees on any axis: 1. Select the object. 2. From the Object menu, select Flip > Flip X / Flip Y / Flip Z. To make precise changes to the object’s orientation on any axis: 1. Select the object. 2. Display the Transform dialog box (see Figure 5-31 on page 5-28). 3. Change the Rotate parameters for each axis. If you manipulate an object on the build tray, you can freeze its orientation so Freezing Model that it does not change when you position it automatically (see "Automatic ...
Page 65 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Display Options Viewing From the View menu, you can change the way objects are displayed. The Objects default method for displaying models on the build tray is as solid (“shaded”) objects. Figure 5-34 Tray and model displayed in Shaded view The other display options are WireFrame and Points. To display the build tray in WireFrame view: ➢ From the View menu, select WireFrame. Figure 5-35 Tray and model displayed in WireFrame view To revert to the shaded view: ➢ From the View menu, select Shaded. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-31...
Page 66 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio To display objects as boxes, showing their maximum dimensions instead of their shape: ➢ From the View menu, select Display Bounding Box. Figure 5-36 Model displayed with bounding box To display the area around objects needed for support material (to produce a matte finish): ➢ From the View menu, select Display Thickening Box. Figure 5-37 Model displayed with thickening box To display the maximum build height: ➢ From the View menu, select Display Tray 3D Box. Figure 5-38 Tray 3D Box DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-32...
Page 67: Screen Layout
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio To display objects without the build tray: ➢ From the View menu, clear (de-select) the Display Tray option. Screen Layout Objet Studio automatically adjusts the default screen layout to display the optimum views of the build tray and the model tree. You can view models from different perspectives by changing the screen layout. To change the screen layout: ➢ On the View flyout toolbar, select Single View, or 4 Views. Figure 5-39 Screen layout icons ❒ Single View is the default screen layout. ❒ 4 Views displays perspective, top, front and right views. Figure 5-40 Single-view screen layout DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-33...
Page 68: Tray Perspective
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Figure 5-41 4-view screen layout Tray The default perspective of the build tray is “isometric.” You can change the Perspective perspective of the active window with one of ten options. To change the perspective of the build tray in the active window: 1. On the Tray Settings ribbon, open the Perspective flyout toolbar. Figure 5-42 Perspective toolbar 2. Click the icon that represents the desired perspective. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-34...
Page 69 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Tray Positioning To view the tray and models from different directions, you can move the tray around the screen and change its display angle. To move the tray in the Objet Studio screen: ➢ Press the mouse wheel while moving the mouse. Figure 5-43 Tray after moving it in the Objet Studio display To manually rotate the tray: ➢ Press Alt and press the mouse wheel while moving the mouse. Figure 5-44 Tray after rotating it upside-down To view the tray and models from different directions, you can change its display angle. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-35...
Page 70: Setting Object Colors
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Setting Object The color of objects on the build tray can indicate how they are printed. Objet Colors Studio enables you to choose the color display so that you can easily see the material, and surface of objects. To choose how colors are applied on the display: ➢ On the Model Settings ribbon, in the Colors group, select one of the options from the flyout toolbar. Figure 5-45 Colors display options 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" on page 5-40). Loading Large Very large stl files can be slow to load and may be difficult to manipulate Files easily on the build tray. If this is the case, you can display just an image of the object on the build tray without loading the entire file. The stl file itself is not changed, and the complete file is sent to the printer. To display an image of stl files when you place objects on the build tray: 1. From the Tools menu, select Options, and display the Settings tab. Figure 5-46 Options dialog box, Settings tab 2. In the Large Files section, select Load Partial (reduced). DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 71: Large File Manipulation
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Large File If you need to work with a detailed model that is composed of a large number Manipulation of polygons, you can speed up its display and manipulation in Objet Studio by reducing the number of polygons on the screen. Although this may reduce the resolution on the screen, it has no affect on the printed models. Figure 5-47 Object displayed without polygon reduction Figure 5-48 Object displayed with only five percent of its polygons showing To use polygon reduction: 1. From the Tools menu, select Options. or— From the Objet Studio Commands menu , click Options. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-37...
Page 72 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio 2. In the Options dialog box, display the tab. Display Figure 5-49 Options dialog box, Display tab 3. Select Enable Polygon Reduction . 4. Select Polygon Reduction (Percent). 5. Enter the percentage of total polygons to display. When you click Apply, the display changes. Note: The setting affects the static display (when the object is not being moved). 6. Set display options when the object is being moved (Display while changing view): ❒ Bounding Box—A box representing the object’s maximum dimensions is displayed. ❒ Adaptive Polygon Reduction—Varying degrees of polygon reduction are applied, as necessary. ❒ Entire Object—No polygon reduction is applied.
Page 73 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Object display The display format affects how quickly objects display. For example, if you options select Bounding Box, objects display faster than they do when you select Entire Object. You can choose display formats for objects when they are stationary (static view) and for when you are dragging them (changing view). To select the object display preference while changing view, and in static view: 1. Select to display objects: ❒ With a Bounding Box (see Figure 5-36 on page 5-32) ❒ With Adaptive Polygon Reduction (changing view only) ❒ With Polygon Reduction (static view only) ❒ Entire Object 2. Click OK when done. While manipulating objects, you often need to view them at different zoom Zoom Options levels. ...
Page 74: Handling Trays
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Handling Trays After preparing models on the build tray, you can do the following: • Test that it can be printed ("validation"). • Calculate the time and material resources needed to print it. • Send it to the printer for production. • Save it for later completion or printing. • Save it as a compressed file for convenient storage and transfer. Before sending a job to the printer for production, you should check that the Tray Validation tray is “valid” and can be printed. Note: Because of the unique characteristics of each type of modeling material, make sure that the correct material is selected before performing Tray Validation. To validate that the tray can be printed: ➢ On the Tray Settings ribbon, in the Build Process group, click or— From the Tools menu, select Placement Validation. If the tray is not valid, the color of the problematic models on the tray changes according to a pre-set code. Figure 5-51 Color code Note: The “Both” color also indicates a problematic stl file. The validation status appears on the bar at the bottom of the screen. Figure 5-52 Validation details in status bar DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-40...
Page 75 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Printing Modes When preparing models for printing on Objet30 Prime and Obje30 Dental Prime printers, you can choose one of the following quality/speed settings. Mode High Quality High Speed Draft ü ü ü Prime ü ü Dental Prime HQ (High Quality) Mode— • Prints models in 15-micron layers, suitable for producing fine details and delicate items. • Requires much more time to print most trays, compared to HS mode. Note: HQ mode is not available when Tango materials are chosen. HS (High Speed) Mode— • Prints models in 28-micron layers, suitable for producing most models. • Requires much less time to print most trays, compared to HQ mode. Draft Mode— • Prints models in 36-micron layers, suitable for producing large models and ...
Page 76: Production Estimates
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Production Objet Studio enables you to calculate the time and material resources needed Estimates for producing trays before sending them to the printer. The time it takes Objet Studio to perform 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. To calculate the time and materials needed for producing the current tray: ➢ On the Tray Settings ribbon, in the Build Process group, click While the estimate is being calculated, a progress bar is displayed—on the right side of the status bar (at the bottom of the screen). Figure 5-54 Estimate progress bar When Objet Studio finishes calculating the production resources, the results are displayed in the Estimated Consumptions group on the Tray Settings ribbon. ...
Page 77 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio If the build tray file has not been saved, the Save As dialog box opens for you to save it now. Objet Studio checks if there is a problem with the positioning of objects on the tray. If so, the affected objects are displayed with special colors (see "Tray Validation" on page 5-40), and a warning message appears. Figure 5-56 Tray validation warning message ❒ To cancel the Build command so you can correct the problem, click ❒ To print the models as they are positioned on the tray, click Yes. The Job Manager screen opens, so you can monitor the progress of your trays—before, during, and after printing. See "Monitoring and Managing Print Jobs" on page 5-64. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-43...
Page 78: Applying Additional Objet Studio Features
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Applying Additional Objet Studio Features The following topics describe additional features available in Objet Studio: • Dividing Objects • Displaying the Cross Section of Objects • Saving the Screen Display as an Image File • Saving and Importing Build Trays Dividing You can use the Split Object feature to produce objects larger than the tray Objects area 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 5-57 Split Object dialog box 4. In Save to Folder, enter the folder name. 5. Click OK.
Page 79: Choosing The Support Strength
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Choosing the When producing models, support material fills some hollow and empty Support sections (see "Manual Positioning" on page 5-21). Objet Studio allows you to Strength adjust the strength of the structure formed with the support material. This adjustment is useful when producing either large/massive models or small/delicate models. For most purposes, the default setting provides adequate support strength. T o change the strength of the support structure used when printing a model: ...
Page 80: Hollow"- Filling Models With Support Material
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio “Hollow”— Many objects placed on the tray from stl files are “solid.” This means that, Filling Models when printed, the model will be completely filled with model material. Often, with Support especially with large objects, this is unnecessary. Instead, the model can be Material filled with support material, which is less costly. It is also advisable to fill models with support material when preparing them for investment casting, since this material burns off more quickly during the process of making the cast. Objet Studio enables you to print objects on the tray with an outer shell of model material and a center filled with support material. When using this feature, called “Hollow,” the thickness of the shell should be no less than 0.5 millimeters. To use the Hollow feature: 1. Select a model on the tray. or— ❒ On the Model Toolbar, click or— ❒ From the right-click context menu, select Advanced Properties. The Advanced Properties dialog box opens. 2. Select Hollow. Figure 5-59 Advanced Properties dialog box 3. ...
Page 81: Displaying The Cross Section Of Objects
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Displaying the The Section feature enables you to view the interior of an object by “slicing” it Cross Section on any axis. You can then manipulate the object to inspect the interior from of Objects different angles. This may be important for deciding on the type of support necessary when producing the model (see "Choosing the Support Strength" on page 5-45). Displaying an object’s cross section only affects how the tray is displayed on the screen; it does not change the object itself. To display a cross section of the tray: 1. From the Tools menu, select Section. The Section dialog box opens. Figure 5-60 Section dialog box 2. Select Enable Clipping. 3. Use the slider controls for the X-, Y-, and Z-axes to cut the tray so that you see the cross section you want. Figure 5-61 Left: Whole view; Right: Cross section view after using the Z-slider DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-47...
Page 82: Saving The Screen Display As An Image File
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Saving the You can save the image displayed in the active viewing screen as a graphic file. Screen Display as an To save the screen display as an image: Image File 1. Press Ctrl+B. or— From the Objet Studio Commands menu , select Save Bitmap. The Save Bitmap dialog box opens. Figure 5-62 Save Bitmap 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 drop-down list, and select the file format. 5. Click Save. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-48...
Page 83: Saving And Importing Build Trays
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Saving and You can save your work in different Objet Studio file formats, depending on Importing how you want to use them later. Build Trays objtf files contain instructions to Objet Studio and to Objet30 printers for OBJTF Files displaying and producing the stl files used on the tray. When you save build trays in Objet Studio, they are saved as objtf files. Saving in objtf format is useful, for example, if you have not finished preparing the tray for printing, or if you want to make changes before printing it again in the future. objtf files are also useful when working from your company's network, where the STL files are stored. Note: Because the objtf file references the stl files used, they must remain in the same file location as when the objtf file was saved. To save the tray as an objtf file: ➢ In the Tray Settings tab, File group, click To open trays saved as objtf files, see "Opening Objet Tray Files" on page 5-14. To conveniently save all of the files as they are positioned on the build tray, OBJZF Files for storing the job, or for transferring it to another location, Objet Studio compresses them into one objzf file. To later use the objzf file, the file must first be expanded in Objet Studio and its component files saved. Note: If you export an objzf file containing a stl file originally saved as read-only, you cannot open (import) this objzf file to the folder where the read-only stl file is saved.
Page 84: Customizing Objet Studio
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Customizing Objet Studio You can customize Objet Studio to suit your particular working needs and preferences. Features that you can customize include: ❒ Creating a quick-access toolbar for frequently used commands. ❒ Changing the position of the Quick Access toolbar. ❒ Minimizing the ribbon. ❒ Changing the Objet Studio color theme. ❒ Configuring default settings for objects placed on the build tray. As you work with Objet Studio, you may use certain commands frequently. Creating a You can create a quick-access toolbar to make your work easier. Quick Access Toolbar To create a quick-access toolbar: 1. Above the ribbon tabs, click The Customize Quick Access Toolbar menu opens. Figure 5-63 Customize Quick Access Toolbar menu 2. ...
Page 85 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio 3. To choose from a wider range of commands: ❒ From the Customize Quick Access Toolbar menu (see Figure 5-63 on the previous page), select More Commands. or— ❒ Right-click on the Objet Studio Commands icon , or elsewhere on the ribbon, and select Customize Quick Access Toolbar. Figure 5-65 Right-click ribbon menu The Options dialog box opens. Figure 5-66 Quick Access Toobar Options dialog box 4. Open the drop-down list and select either Popular Commands or Commands not on the Ribbon. 5. Select a command and click Add. 6. Click OK. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-51...
Page 86: Hiding The Ribbon
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Hiding the To make more room for displaying the build tray, you can hide the Objet Ribbon Studio ribbons. To hide the ribbons: 1. Right-click anywhere on the ribbon or on the menu bar, or in the Objet Studio Commands menu 2. Select Minimize the Ribbon. The ribbons disappear, but you can temporarily display the ribbon icons by clicking Tray Settings or Job Manager on the menu bar. When you next click outside of the ribbon, it disappears again. To return the permanent ribbon display: ➢ Repeat the steps above to cancel Minimize the Ribbon. 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 used in Objet Studio screens: 1. From the Tools menu, select Options. Figure 5-67 Display settings ...
Page 87 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio ❒ If Shaded is selected, you can display the model on the tray as a see- through object. Figure 5-68 Transparent display ❒ Double-click the color patches to customize colors. ❒ The Windows Background Color settings enable you to change the color behind the build tray—with either a solid or a two-color gradient. ❒ To return to the default display settings, click Default. Objet Studio offers a choice of four background color themes—blue, black, Changing Color silver and aqua. Themes Figure 5-69 Background color themes To change the color theme: ➢ From the Style menu, select one of the options. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 88: Keyboard Shortcuts
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Keyboard You can define shortcut keys for frequently used commands. Shortcuts To define shortcut keys: 1. Above the ribbon tabs, click The Customize Quick Access Toolbar menu opens. Figure 5-70 Customize Quick Access Toolbar menu 2. Select More Commands. The Options dialog box opens (see Figure 5-66 on page 5-51). DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-54...
Page 89 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio 3. Click Customize. The Customize Keyboard dialog box appears. Figure 5-71 Customize Keyboard dialog box 4. Select command Categories to display all the commands in that category, for example, all the Model Settings commands. Current shortcut keys are displayed. 5. Enter the shortcut key in the Press new shortcut key field, and click Assign. 6. If you want to redefine all shortcut keys, click Reset All. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-55...
Page 90: Setting User Preferences
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Setting User You can change several Objet Studio settings that affect objects placed on the Preferences build tray. To change default settings: ➢ From the Objet Studio Commands menu , select User Preferences. Figure 5-72 Setting work preferences • Building Style—see "Surface Finish" on page 5-18. • Grid Style—see "Choosing the Support Strength" on page 5-45. • Application Settings: ❒ Lock Orientation—see "Freezing Model Orientation" on page 5-30. ❒ Hollow—see "Hollow"—Filling Models with Support Material on page 5-46. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-56...
Page 91: Professional Mode Features
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Professional Mode Features Some advanced features of Objet Studio are only accessible in Professional Mode. To see the current Objet Studio setting: ➢ Open the Tools menu. Figure 5-73 Tools menu, showing Professional Mode selected If Professional Mode is selected, advanced features are displayed. To change the Professional Mode setting: 1. From the Tools menu, select Professional Mode. The following message is displayed, reminding you that the change will only take effect the next time you open Objet Studio—even though the check mark next to the Professional Mode option appears immediately. Figure 5-74 Configuration-change message 2. Close and re-open Objet Studio to use the Professional Mode features. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-57...
Page 92: Default Settings
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Default You can control the default settings of several Objet Studio features from the Settings Advanced tab of the Options dialog box. To display the Options dialog box ➢ From the Tools menu, select Options. or— In the Objet Studio Commands menu , click Options. Figure 5-75 Options dialog box, Advanced tab The Advanced tab is only accessible when Professional Mode is active (see "Professional Mode Features" on the previous page). By default, when Objet Studio places objects on the build tray, it orients them Automatic optimally, for the shortest printing time. If necessary, you can choose to Orientation cancel automatic orientation each time you place an object on the build tray (see "Automatic Orientation" on page 5-19). In any case, when objects are on the build tray, you can change their orientation manually (see "Manual Positioning" on page 5-21.) To change the default setting so that Automatic Orientation is disabled: ➢ In the Advanced section of the Options dialog box, clear the check box. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-58...
Page 93: Opengl Driver Configuration
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Automatic Zoom When Auto Zoom is selected in the Advanced section of the Options dialog box, the display zooms in, to display the objects placed on the build tray. This allows you to carefully inspect and manipulate the objects. By default, this feature is not enabled. In any case, you can change the zoom level, as necessary (see "Zoom Options" on page 5-39). OpenGL Driver The OpenGL driver displays 3D graphics on your screen. There is normally no Configuration reason to adjust its settings. If you suspect a problem with the way Objet Studio displays objects, you can use the OpenGL Driver Configuration tool to check and configure the driver settings. To access the OpenGL Driver Configuration dialog box: 1. From the Tools menu, select Options. or— In the Objet Studio Commands menu , click Options. 2. In the Options dialog box, display the Troubleshooting tab. Figure 5-76 Access to OpenGL Driver configuration The Troubleshooting tab is only accessible when Professional Mode is active (see "Professional Mode Features" on page 5-57). DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-59...
Page 94 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio 3. Click OpenGL Driver Configuration. The dialog box that opens displays details of the pixel format ID (index) for the window and the memory. Figure 5-77 OpenGL Driver Configuration dialog box If you want to display the values and change them, click . Alternately, you can select Choose Format and change the values in this dialog box. To perform a test of the driver configuration and enter the suggested pixel format 1. Select Choose Format. 2. Click Test. Objet Studio returns the recommended pixel format ID. Figure 5-78 Recommended pixel format ID 3. Click OK. 4. In the OpenGL Driver Configuration dialog box (Figure 5-77), select Pixel Format ID and enter this number. 5. Click Apply. 6. Display the other pixel format tab, and repeat this procedure. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-60...
Page 95: Getting Additional Objet Studio Assistance
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Getting Additional Objet Studio Assistance Objet Studio Help provides on-screen instructions and information, as you work. To view Objet Studio Help: ➢ On the standard toolbar, click and then click Objet Studio Help. Figure 5-79 Help options You can also view information on the following subjects: ❒ Troubleshooting opens a list of error messages and their explanations. ❒ Check for Updates checks if you are using the latest Objet Studio version. Objet Studio Version, Material Module and Licensed Features You can view details of the Objet Studio version, the material module installed, and the features available with your license. To view details of your Objet Studio installation: ➢ On the standard toolbar, click ...
Page 96 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio About Objet The About Objet Studio tab shows the Objet Studio version number and basic Studio tab information about your computer. Figure 5-81 About Objet Studio tab The Materials Module tab shows details of the material module installed. Materials Module tab Figure 5-82 Materials Module tab • Module version If a Materials Module upgrade (patch) was installed, the new Materials Module version is displayed. If no patches were installed, the Module version is the same as the Objet Studio version. • Module date If a Materials Module upgrade (patch) was installed, the date of its creation is displayed. If no patches were installed, the Module date is the date of the Objet Studio version. • Module properties If a Materials Module upgrade (patch) was installed, its description is displayed. If no patches were installed, “Default” is displayed. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-62...
Page 97 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Feature License The Feature License tab shows the Objet Studio features available with your tab license. Figure 5-83 Feature License tab Click to expand the details for each feature. • Modes shows the printing modes available. See "Printing Modes" on page 5-41. • Materials shows model materials available. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-63...
Page 98: Monitoring And Managing Print Jobs
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Monitoring and Managing Print Jobs In the Job Manager screen of Objet Studio, you monitor and manage jobs sent to the printer. There are a few differences between Objet Studio on client workstations and on the computer connected directly to the 3D printer—the server workstation. • Objet Studio installed on a client computer only displays the queue and status for jobs sent to the 3D printer server from that computer, and it allows the user to edit only these jobs. Note: If there are several PolyJet printers on the local network, client computers can connect to any of them, but only one at a time. • Objet Studio installed on the computer directly connected to a specific 3D printer (server), displays the queue and status for all jobs sent to that 3D printer by the server and by all client computers on the network. It also allows editing and manipulation of all jobs, and enables re-sending previously-printed jobs to the printer. If Objet Studio is not connected to a printer (or printer server), you can prepare tray files for any PolyJet printer. Later, these files can be used by Objet Studio on the appropriate printer server. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-64...
Page 99: Job Manager Screen
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Job Manager The Job Manager screen on the client and server workstations looks Screen identical. The only difference is that options only relevant to the server workstation are disabled for client installations. Figure 5-84 Job Manager screen The Job Manager screen is divided into panels: • "Jobs Queue" • "Printing Progress" • " H istory "...
Page 100 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Jobs Queue On the server, the Jobs Queue lists the last 15 jobs sent from client computers. On client workstations, the Jobs Queue lists jobs sent from that computer to the printer server. 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. Stopped Printing of this job was interrupted. Printing can later be continued (Resume) or begun again (Restart). Error Errors occurred during the printing of this job, and it was placed in the Jobs Queue again. Editing This job is now being edited in Objet Studio . Spooling The job file is being spooled in the printer. Preprocessing The 3D printer is readying itself for printing: the cover locks, print heads warm up and are put in starting position, UV lamp is turned on, and the build tray level is adjusted.
Page 101: Setting The Printer Connection
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Waste If you move the mouse over the Waste display, the amount of waste in the container is displayed. Setting the When your printer is installed, the server computer is connected to that Printer printer. Normally, there should be no reason to change this connection. Connection Occasionally, however, you may need to reset the connection, to connect the server to another printer, or to use Objet Studio in off-line mode (without a printer connection). To set (or change) the printer connection: 1. On the Job Manager ribbon, in the 3D Printer group, click 2. In the Set Printer dialog box, click Connect. Figure 5-85 C onnecting to a printer (A) DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 102: Off-Line Mode
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio 3. Enter the computer name or its IP address, or click Browse to find and select it. Figure 5-86 Connecting to a printer (B) 4. Click OK. When the connection is established, Objet Studio is configured to prepare print jobs for that printer. If you can see the material levels in the "Job Manager Screen" (see Figure 5-84 on page 5-65), Objet Studio is connected to the printer. Normally, there should be no reason to change the printer connection. Occasionally, however, you may need to reset the connection, to connect the server to another printer, or to use Objet Studio in off-line mode (without a printer connection). Note: A printer can be listed by its name or by its computer's I P address. Off-line Mode You can use Objet Studio to prepare trays for printing in off-line mode, on a remote computer or when the printer connection is not available. You also use off-line mode to prepare trays for printing with other printers. In this case, if Objet Studio is currently connected to a printer, you must change to off-line mode by removing this connection. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-68...
Page 103 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio To disconnect Objet Studio from the printer: 1. On the Job Manager ribbon, in the 3D Printer group, click 2. In the Set Printer dialog box, click Connect (see Figure 5-85 on page 5- 67). Figure 5-87 Disconnecting Objet Studio from a printer (A) DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-69...
Page 104 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio 3. In the Printer Connection dialog box, delete the computer name/IP address. Figure 5-88 Disconnecting Objet Studio from a printer (B) 4. Click OK. “Unknown” appears in the printer-name field. 5. Click OK. 6. In the pop-up message, confirm that you want to work in off-line mode by clicking No. Figure 5-89 Off-line message When Objet Studio is in off-line mode, you can configure it for preparing print jobs for different printers. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-70...
Page 105 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio To change the Objet Studio off-line configuration: 1. In the Set Printer dialog box, select a printer type. Figure 5-90 Off-line printer selection 2. Click OK (not “Connect”). DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-71...
Page 106: Setting The Remote Printer Connection (Client Mode)
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Setting the When you open Objet Studio for the first time in a client installation, you are Remote Printer prompted to connect to a server computer that sends jobs to a 3D printer. To Connection do this, the server computer must be operating and connected to the local (Client Mode) network. To set (or change) the connection to the server-computer: 1. On the Job Manager ribbon, in the 3D Printer group, click 2. Enter the name of the server computer or its IP address, or click Browse to find and select it. 3. Click OK. Figure 5-91 Printer Server Connection dialog box The Job Manager ribbon has three icon groups: Job Manager Commands ❒ 3D Printer ❒ Queue ❒ ...
Page 107 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio The following operations are available on the Job Manager ribbon: Group Icon Purpose 3D Client: Sets the server connection. See "Setting the Remote Printer Con- Printer nection (Client Mode)" on the previous page. Server: Sets the printer connection. See "Setting the Printer Connection" on page 5-67. Configures options for printer alerts. See "Configuring User Alerts" on page 5-75. Queue Server: Moves a job to the head of the Jobs Queue. Client: Disabled. See "Jobs Queue" on page 5-66. Server: Moves a job to a higher position in the Jobs Queue. Client: Disabled. See "Jobs Queue" on page 5-66 Server: Moves a job to the bottom of the Jobs Queue. Client: Disabled. See "Jobs Queue" on page 5-66. Server: Moves a job to a lower position in the Jobs Queue. Client: Disabled. See "Jobs Queue" on page 5-66.
Page 108 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio In addition to using ribbon command icons, you can use commands on context (pop-up) toolbars and from the Job menu on the standard toolbar. Figure 5-93 Icons on pop-up toolbar (server) Figure 5-94 Icons on pop-up toolbar (client workstation) Note: Most icons and menu commands are only enabled when a job is selected. When you position the cursor over an item, a tooltip displays the name of the command. Figure 5-95 Job menu options (server) DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-74...
Page 109: Configuring User Alerts
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Configuring Objet Studio can alert you (and others) to the status of jobs sent to the server User Alerts for printing. This is especially useful during long printing jobs, when the operator is away from the 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. To send e-mail and SMS alerts, make sure that e-mail software supporting MAPI is installed on the server computer. To send SMS alerts, the cellular phone service must support the transmission of e-mail messages by SMS. Only the subject line of the e-mail message is transmitted by SMS. To configure Objet Studio to send notifications and alerts: 1. On the Job Manager ribbon, in the 3D Printer group, click Figure 5-96 Notifications dialog box (server) DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-75...
Page 110: Printing From The Jobs Queue
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Figure 5-97 Notifications dialog box (client workstation) 2. Set the desired reporting options. 3. Click Details. Figure 5-98 Event selection for alerts 4. In the Reports Events dialog box, select the alert events and click OK. 5. In the Notifications dialog box, click OK. If there is a job in the Jobs Queue, it is sent automatically to the Stratasys Printing from PolyJet printer—as long as it is on, there is a connection to the printer, and the Jobs the printer is on line. Queue Chapter 6 describes starting and operating the printer. DOC-34022 Rev. D 5-76...
Page 111: Additional Server Features
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Additional Objet Studio on the printer server includes the following additional features: Server • "Extended Tray Preview" Features • "Editing Jobs" • "Restarting Jobs" • "Resuming Jobs" • "Scheduling Jobs" • "Exporting Jobs (objzf)" • "Modifying the Job Manager Screen" These features are described on the following pages. Extended Tray Preview In this window, you can view the tray from different angles and magnifications without leaving the Job Manager screen. In addition to displaying the selected job in the Tray Preview pane, you can open an enlarged build tray window. To display the build tray window: 1. Select a job in the Jobs Queue or the History list. 2. Click the Tray Preview pane. Figure 5-99 Job Preview ❒ To change the tray magnification, turn the mouse wheel. ❒ To view the tray from a different perspective, click the relevant icon. ❒ To resize the window, drag its edge or corners.
Page 112 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio 3. Select Exclude from Build. Figure 5-100 Excluding a model from the build 4. Click Yes to confirm. On server computers, you can use Tray Preview to dynamically display objects as they are printed, layer by layer. This enables you to visually monitor printing progress on the computer screen. To display printing progress in the Tray Preview pane: ➢ From the Job menu, select Show 3dProgress. This option uses additional system resources. Editing Jobs You can open jobs in the Jobs Queue for editing. To edit a job: 1. Select the job. 2. Click the Edit icon The Tray Settings screen opens, displaying the build tray. The status of the job in the Job Manager screen changes to “Editing.” 3. Edit the job. 4. On the Tray Settings ribbon, click The status of the job in the Job Manager screen changes back to ...
Page 113: Resuming Jobs
Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Restarting Jobs You can restart jobs from the Jobs Queue and the History list. To restart a job: 1. Select the job. 2. Click the Restart icon The job status changes to “Waiting” (in the Jobs Queue). If the printing process is stopped or interrupted, you may be able to continue Resuming Jobs printing the job from the point where printing stopped. When resuming a print job, the printer tray does not move. The printer expects Objet Studio to send the slice from where the stoppage or failure occurred. To resume a job: 1. Select the job. 2. Click Scheduling Jobs You can schedule jobs to be printed at a future time. For example, you can configure Objet Studio to start long printing jobs in the late evening and early morning hours. To schedule a job: 1. Select a job in the Jobs Queue, and click on the pop-up toolbar. 2. In the Scheduler dialog box, set the Start Date and Start Time for the job. ...
Page 114 Objet30 User Guide 5 Using Objet Studio Exporting Jobs (objzf) You can save print jobs as compressed files. For an explanation of objzf files, see "Saving and Importing Build Trays" on page 5-49. To export a print job: 1. Select a job. 2. On the pop-up toolbar, click 3. In the Save As dialog box, select a folder. 4. Click Save. Modifying the Job Manager Screen You can change the size of the sections of the Job Manager screen, by dragging the panel edges. This applies to: • the Jobs Queue panel • the Time panel • the History panel Similarly, you can change the way the screen area is divided between the main section (Jobs Queue/Time/History) and the panels on the right side of the screen. You can collapse (hide) the right panels (Available Resources/Material Consumption/Tray View) by clicking the top of the panel. • Click again to display the panel. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 115 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Starting the P rinter Loading Model and Support Cartridges Producing Models Preparing the Printer Printer Interface Color Key 6-10 Printing Indicators 6-11 Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped 6-12 Changing the Printing Material 6-14 Keeping the Printer in Idle Mode 6-20 Shutting Down the Printer 6-21 Shutdown Wizard 6-22 Material Flush/Fill Wizard 6-24 Maintaining the Printer 6-27 Routine Maintenance Schedule 6-27 Cleaning the Print Heads and the Roller 6-28 Cleaning and Replacing the Wiper 6-31 Pattern Test 6-33 Improving Print Quality 6-35 Cleaning and Replacing the Roller Waste Collector...
Page 116 Replacing the Pump Tubes 6-83 Built-in Tests 6-94 Replacing the Waste Container 6-96 Cleaning the Exterior Panels 6-98 Backing-Up and Restoring Printer Settings 6-99 ReInitiate Wizard 6-99 Preventive Maintenance Tasks 6-99 DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 117: Starting The Printer
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Figure 6-1 The Objet30 3D Printer Starting the Printer Caution Do not attempt to operate the printer before being trained by a Stratasys Customer Support representative. Observe all safety warnings and follow the safety guidelines described in Chapter 2. 1. Turn on the main power switch, located at the back of the printer. Figure 6-2 Main power switch and cable The main power switch turns on the Objet30 printer, which includes — the built-in computer. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 118 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 2. After the computer boots, open the Remote Desktop Connection on the server (“host”) computer, by double-clicking the Printer computer shortcut. A HASP plug containing a valid product activation key is required on the printer computer. This is installed at the factory or during printer upgrade. If the application does not open and a HASP message appears, contact your dealer or Stratasys Customer Support. The Objet printer interface screen opens. All monitoring and controlling of the printer is done from this interface. Figure 6-3 Objet30 interface The time zone on the printer computer is factory-set and it cannot be changed. Similarly, the computer’s clock cannot be configured to automatically change the time for different seasons of the year. If necessary, you can change the displayed time manually, but do so only when the printer is idle. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 119: Loading Model And Support Cartridges
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 loaded and their current weight appears in the printer interface (see Figure 6-3 on the previous page). Note: The printer-control interface displays the type and weight of the material cartridges loaded only if the materials drawer is closed. The printer uses RFID technology to automatically identify cartridges of printing material. For this purpose, an RFID module is part of the printer hardware. Tampering with this module will render the printer inoperable and may void Stratasys warranties and service contracts. Important: If you need to replace the Model material currently installed with another type, see "Changing the Printing Material" on page 6-14. Otherwise, make sure to replace the Model cartridge with one containing the same type of material. To load Model and Support material: 1. On the front of the printer (see Figure 3-1 on page 3-2), push the materials drawer to release it and pull it open. 2. If you are replacing a cartridge, remove the old one by pulling it straight 3. Load Model and Support cartridges into their respective compartments ...
Page 120 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 5. Check the printer interface to make sure that the new cartridge is detected and that its weight is displayed (see Figure 6-3 on page 6-4). Tips about loading and replacing material cartridges: It recommended that you always have two material cartridges loaded in the printer. When the weight of the material in one cartridge drops below 100 grams, the printer pumps material from both cartridges until one is empty. If only one cartridge is used, printing stops when the weight of the material drops below 100 grams. (Similarly, printing stops if the weight in both cartridges is below this level.) Note: Objet Studio does not display the weight of material in a cartridge if it is under 100 grams. 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 materials drawer within three minutes. This ensures that the print job is not interrupted. (When the drawer is open, the cartridges are not displayed in the printer interface.) If printing stops for an extended time before you replace a material cartridge, the printer may go into Standby or Idle mode. If this happens, see "Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped" on page 6-12. You can replace partially used cartridge to avoid the need for replacing them during printing. However, repeated removal and installation of a cartridge may cause the material in it to leak. Therefore, it is recommended that you limit the re-installation of used cartridges. ...
Page 121: Producing Models
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Producing Models The Objet30 printer produces models after they are arranged on a virtual build tray i n the Objet Studio application and sent to the printer from there. For information about preparing model files for printing, see "Using Objet Studio" in this user guide or Objet Studio Help. The Objet30 printer is capable of printing models with the following maximum dimensions: ➢ 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)* * OrthoDesk printers—100.0 mm (3.94 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)* * OrthoDesk printers—97.9 mm (3.85 inches) Preparing the Printer ...
Page 122 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 3. On the printer interface, click the red button to switch the printer to online mode. The color of the button changes from red to green (see Figure 6-7 on the next page). If there is a job in the Job Manager queue, it is sent to the printer. When switching the printer to online mode, a message is displayed if a maintenance activity is required to ensure optimum printing quality. (See "Routine Maintenance Schedule" on page 6-27.) Maintenance notifications can be disabled/enabled from the Options menu. On the printer interface, the printer mode changes from Idle to Pre-print, as the printer’s components prepare themselves for production: • The print block is heated. • If more than 48 hours have passed since the last print job, the printing materials in the print heads are flushed and replaced, to ensure quality printing. (This step adds 7 to 14 minutes to the Pre-print cycle, and it is displayed on the printer interface.) Figure 6-5 ReInitiate process during the Pre-Print cycle • The UV lamp is powered and it warms up. When printing begins, Objet Studio sends seven slices to the printer-control application. This is the standard buffer between Objet Studio and the printer. As each slice is printed, another slice is sent 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 ...
Page 123 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer When the weight of a cartridge drops below 100 grams, the printer alternates the pumping of material between the heavier and the almost-empty cartridge. This is indicated on the printer interface by an hour-glass icon. (See Figure 6- 8 on page 6-11.) When a cartridge is completely empty, a trash icon is displayed. Figure 6-6 Empty cartridge indicator You can monitor printer status indicators by switching the printer interface display. To do this, click the display toggle button on the printer interface screen. Figure 6-7 Printer indicators DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 124: Printer Interface Color Key
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Printer The background colors in the printer indicator fields tell you at a glance Interface whether or not the value or item is suitable or ready for printing. Color Key • Green—suitable/ready for printing For example, in Figure 6-7 on the previous page: ❒ Ambient—The ambient temperature of the printing chamber is within the acceptable range. ❒ Heads Liquid—The level of Model and Support material in the print-block reservoir is OK. ❒ Vacuum—The vacuum level in the system is within the acceptable range. • Red—not suitable for printing (or indicates a warning) For example, in Figure 6-7 on the previous page: ❒ Waste—The weight of the waste container is 1520 grams, more than allowed when beginning a print job. ("Replacing the Waste Container" on page 6-96.) • Blue—not ready For example, in Figure 6-7 on the previous page: ❒ UV lamp—The UV lamp is not on. ❒ Heads (°C)—The heads have not reached the temperature required for ...
Page 125: Printing Indicators
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Printing The printer interface screen changes when you send a print job to the printer Indicators (from Objet Studio), if the printer is on line: • The mode changes from Pre-print to Printing. • The specific activity being performed is shown in the “current activity” field. • Current job-printing information is displayed. • The printing progress bar is displayed. • The Stop button is enabled. Figure 6-8 P rinter interface during printing During printer operation, the following window may occasionally appear. Figure 6-9 Q-Monitor This window records information for service personnel only, and it does not require your attention. You can close or minimize it to remove it from view. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 126: Resuming Production After Printing Has Stopped
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Resuming Production After Printing has Stopped If the printing process is interrupted, Job Manager stops sending slices to the printer. This can happen, for example, if the printing material runs out in the middle of a print job, and you do not replace the empty cartridge immediately. After the printer changes to Standby or Idle mode, you need to resume printing from the Job Manager screen of Objet Studio. After printing stops, the printer goes into Standby mode, when heating of the print heads is reduced. About 20 minutes later, the printer goes into Idle mode, when heating of the print heads is stopped. To continue printing the model: 1. If the printer is in offline mode, switch it to online mode by clicking the red button at the bottom of the printer interface (see Figure 6-3 on page 6-4). The button changes from red to green (see Figure 6-3 on page 6-4). 2. If you don’t know why printing has stopped, make sure that the connection between the printer and the server computer is active. 3. In the Job Manager screen of Objet Studio, click the Resume icon 4. In the Continue from Slice dialog box that appears, confirm the slice ...
Page 127 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer You cannot continue printing the model if: • The number of the last slice printed does not appear in the printer interface, even if the server computer displays the Continue from Slice confirmation dialog box. • There was a relatively long interruption in printing, even if the “last slice” and “continue from slice” indicators are correct. The part of the model already printed may deform or shrink, and there might be a visible difference between it and the newly printed part. The effects of a printing stoppage on a model depend on the model size and structure, Model material used, ambient temperature and the length of the stoppage. If you cannot continue printing: 1. Cancel the print job in the Job Manager screen. 2. Remove the partially printed model from the build tray. 3. Restart the job from the Job Manager screen (in Objet Studio). You can stop printing from either the printer interface or from the Job Manager screen of Objet Studio. Resuming printing is only available from the Job Manager screen. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-13...
Page 128: Changing The Printing Material
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Changing the Printing Material When you want to produce models with a different type of printing material than is currently installed, you need to run the Material Replacement wizard to flush the print block and feed tubes. However, if the type of material used for printing the new models is unimportant, you can replace the material cartridge without first flushing out the old material. You should carefully plan printing models with different Model materials to avoid unnecessary waste of the materials currently loaded. The amount of material flushed depends on the flushing cycle chosen and if you are replacing one or both Model cartridges. For details, see Flushing Options. To replace the printing material with the wizard: 1. Start the Material Replacement wizard from the Options menu. Figure 6-12 Starting the Material Replacement wizard 2. In the opening screen, click Next. 3. If the printer cover is not closed, a screen appears, prompting you to close the cover. Confirm that it is closed and click Next. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-14...
Page 129 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 4. When the Cartridge Loading screen appears, indicate whether or not replacement cartridges have been loaded. Figure 6-13 Replacement-cartridge status 5. Click Next. ❒ If the replacement cartridges are already loaded in the materials drawer, a screen appears, showing the materials currently in the system and the material cartridges in the drawer. Figure 6-14 Material Replacement Summary screen After reviewing this screen, click Next and continue with step 8. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-15...
Page 130 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer ❒ If the replacement cartridges are not loaded in the materials drawer, the Compartment Selection screen appears. Figure 6-15 Compartment Selection screen 6. Select the cartridge(s) you want to replace, and click Next. 7. From the drop-down menu, choose the material you want to install, and click Next. Figure 6-16 Material Selection screen The Model materials available for selection depend on your printer type and license. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-16...
Page 131 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 8. In the Flushing Options screen, choose the appropriate cycle for the Model material you want to install. Figure 6-17 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. Since traces of the previous material may be present in the first models printed with the new material, this cycle is usually acceptable when replacing a light-colored Model material with a darker material (such as TangoBlack™ or VeroBlack™), or if the exact color of the printed models is unimportant. In most cases, models will have the mechanical properties of the new material (except when switching between Vero and Tango materials). The amount of material flushed during this cycle is— ¤ 65 grams (± 10%) when replacing one cartridge ¤ 110 grams (± 10%) when replacing two cartridges ❒ High-performance. During this cycle, which takes about 60 minutes, ...
Page 132: Producing Models 6
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 9. Click Next, and take note of the warning. Figure 6-18 Material Replacement warning screen Once you start this procedure, you must complete it before you can produce models with the Objet 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. 10. Click Next. ❒ If the replacement cartridges are already loaded in the materials drawer, the wizard checks that there is sufficient material to complete the procedure. Continue with step 7. ❒ If the replacement cartridges are not loaded in the materials drawer, the wizard prompts you to remove the cartridge(s) from the drawer. Continue with step 11. 11. When prompted by the wizard screen, remove the material cartridge(s). Confirm this in the wizard screen and click Next. Figure 6-19 Remove Cartridge confirmation screen 12. When prompted, load the new cartridge(s) and close the drawer. Confirm this in the wizard screen and click Next.
Page 133 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 13. After checking the amount of material in the cartridges, the wizard proceeds as follows: ❒ If the amount of material is insufficient for completing the procedure, the wizard prompts you to replace the cartridge(s). Figure 6-20 Prompt to replace cartridge due to insufficient material Replace the required cartridge(s). Confirm this in the wizard screen and click Next. ❒ If the amount of material is sufficient for completing the procedure, the printer purges the current material from the system, then flushes the system and fills the print heads with the new material. Figure 6-21 Material replacement: filling heads with new material 14. Click Done to close the wizard. The printer-control application is automatically updated, and the interface displays the new material(s). Objet Studio (on the server computer) is also updated and displays the new material(s). 15. Inspect the area around the purge unit and clean it, if necessary. Caution Dispose of all material cartridges in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. If necessary, the cartridges can be disassembled for recycling. If this is done, protect the person handling the cartridges from direct exposure to uncured resins. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-19...
Page 134: Keeping The Printer In Idle Mode
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Keeping the Printer in Idle Mode Between printing jobs, the Objet30 printer can be left unused for up to one week. If the printer will not be used for more than a week, use the Shutdown wizard to automatically perform the procedures that must be done before turning off the printer (see "Shutting Down the Printer" on the next page, below). When the printer stops producing models, the printer software automatically reduces the temperature of the print heads as follows: After printing stops Mode Change in heating of print heads first 15 minutes Standby 1 no change next 5 minutes Standby 2 heating reduced (to room temp.) after Standby 2 Idle heating stopped...
Page 135: Shutting Down The Printer
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Shutting Down the 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. The Shutdown process flushes printing materials from printer components. To avoid flushing out valuable material, make sure to print models at least once a week. Many printer operators use this opportunity to print customer samples or test models. 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 the Shutdown wizard.
Page 136: Shutdown Wizard
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Shutdown To run the Shutdown wizard: Wizard 1. Select Shutdown wizard from the Options menu, or press F8. Figure 6-22 Shutdown wizard, opening screen 2. Select Run wizard unattended, unless you want more control over the shutdown process. Note: If you select Run wizard unattended, the wizard automatically turns off the printer computer at the end of the process. 3. Click Next. The options in the following screens are enabled only if you selected Run wizard manually in the opening wizard screen. 4. In the next screen, indicate whether or not the tray is empty and click Next. Figure 6-23 Tray status screen DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-22...
Page 137 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer The shutdown procedure begins. Figure 6-24 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 screen appears, in which you choose whether or not to shut down the computer in the Objet printer at this time. Figure 6-25 Computer Shutdown confirmation screen 5. When completely shutting down the Objet printer and turning the power off, select Yes and click Next. 6. After the printer computer shuts down, turn off the main power switch at the back of the printer ( see Figure 6-2 on page 6-3). DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-23...
Page 138: Material Flush/Fill Wizard
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Using the Material Flush/Fill wizard before and after an extended period of Material inactivity (more than one week) ensures proper printer maintenance and Flush/Fill quality printing. Each time you run the wizard, you select one of the following Wizard processes: • draining printing materials and flushing the system with cleaning fluid Use this process to prepare the printer for a shutdown of more than one week. This process takes about 60 minutes, and requires four (4) cleaning- fluid cartridges in the materials drawer. • filling the system with fresh printing materials Use this process to restore the printer to working condition. This process takes about 30 minutes, and requires two (2) cartridges of Model material and two (2) cartridges of Support material in the materials drawer. After more than one week of inactivity, drain and flush the system if this was not previously done. In this case, run the wizard twice before printing—first, to drain old printing material and clean the system, and again, to fill it with fresh material. To run the Material Flush/Fill wizard: 1. Start Material Flush/Fill wizard from the Options menu. 2. In the opening screen, click Next. Figure 6-26 Wizard procedure selection 3. Select the required procedure, and click Next. Note: Before continuing, make sure the required cartridges of material are available for the procedure selected. ...
Page 139 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 4. Load the required cartridges, close the drawer, and confirm this in the wizard screen. Figure 6-27 Cartridge confirmation screen—before flushing Figure 6-28 Cartridge confirmation screen—before filling 5. In the next wizard screen, confirm that the printer cover is closed, and click Next. The wizard runs the material-flushing cycles. Figure 6-29 Flushing cycles in progress DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-25...
Page 140 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 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 6-30 Final wizard screen After preparing the printer for an extended shutdown period with this wizard, you should close the printer-control application and Windows, and then turn off the printer. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-26...
Page 141: Maintaining The Printer
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Maintaining the Printer Performing routine maintenance tasks is essential for getting satisfactory results from Objet30 3D printers. Perform the tasks at specified intervals. When switching the printer to online mode, a message is displayed if a maintenance activity is required to ensure optimum printing quality. Maintenance notifications can be disabled/enabled from the Options menu. Routine Frequency Task For More Information Maintenance After every print job Clean the print heads and See "Cleaning the Print Schedule the roller surface. Heads and the Roller" on the next page. Weekly Perform the Pattern test. See "Pattern Test" on page 6-33. Weekly Clean and inspect the ...
Page 142 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D 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 and the Roller you through the procedure, and adjusts components of the printer to enable you to perform it. To maintain the 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 and the roller: 1. Prepare— ❒ isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) ❒ disposable cleaning gloves ❒ a supplied cleaning cloth or equivalent ❒ a mirror 2. Start the Head Cleaning wizard from the Options menu (see Figure 6-35 on page 6-31). 3. Follow the instructions on the wizard screens, and select the confirmation check boxes.
Page 143 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Warning: Hot Surface 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. Caution Uncured printing material on the print heads might cause skin irritation. Use disposable cleaning gloves to protect your hands. 8. Soak the cleaning cloth with alcohol. 9. Clean the orifice plates, with a back-and-forth motion (see Figure 6-33). Use the mirror to make sure that you have removed all of the residue material. Figure 6-33 C leaning the heads 10. Clean the entire roller surface, by rotating it as you clean.
Page 144 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer The head-purge cycle begins. When this is complete, the final wizard screen appears. Figure 6-34 Head-cleaning wizard—final screen 14. Click Done to close the wizard. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-30...
Page 145 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Cleaning and A rubber wiper removes excess material from the print heads after the purge Replacing the sequence. This is done automatically before each print job, and performed Wiper manually during maintenance tasks. You should clean the wiper and surrounding area daily. If the wiper is damaged or worn, replace it. To inspect and clean the wiper: 1. Prepare— ❒ isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) ❒ disposable cleaning gloves ❒ a supplied cleaning cloth or equivalent ❒ a spare wiper ❒ an M2.5 hex (Allen®) key 2. Start the Wiper Cleaning wizard from the Options menu. Figure 6-35 Starting the Wiper Cleaning wizard 3. In the opening wizard screen, click Next. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 146 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 4. Make sure that the build tray is empty, and close the printer cover. Confirm this in the wizard screen and click Next. Figure 6-36 Wiper Cleaning —step 4 5. When the following screen appears, open the cover. Figure 6-37 W iper Cleaning wizard during steps 6–9 6. Put on the cleaning gloves. 7. Using a generous amount of alcohol on the cleaning cloth, remove any material remaining on the wiper and the surrounding area. 8. Inspect the wiper. ...
Page 147: Pattern Test
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer b. Grasp the wiper unit and remove it. Note: Do not remove the grease. c. Insert the new wiper, making sure that it is level, and tighten the securing screw. 9. In the wizard screen (see Figure 6-37), confirm that the wiper blade is clean, and click Next. 10. Remove all tools and cleaning materials from the printer, and close the cover. 11. Confirm this in the wizard screen, and click Next. Figure 6-39 Confirmation screen 12. Click Done to close the wizard. 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 printer, tape the pink paper to the center of the build tray. ...
Page 148: Improving Print Quality 6
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 5. In the following dialog box, click OK to confirm that the paper is in place on the build tray. Figure 6-41 Confirmation before printing on test paper The printer prints a series of lines on the test paper (see next figure). Figure 6-42 Sample Pattern Test 6. Carefully inspect the test paper to see if there are missing lines. 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" on the next page. Note: Acceptable model quality is subjective, and depends on the type and scale (size) of the models produced. As a rule, however, more than 10 missing lines in one area of a column is considered unacceptable. 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. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-34...
Page 149: Improving Print Quality
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Improving If you suspect that print quality is poor, perform the pattern test (see "Pattern Print Quality Test"). If the results are poor, use the following procedure to improve print quality. If the results of the last pattern test are poor: 1. From the Options menu, select Purge Sequence, or press F4. 2. In the confirmation dialog box, click Yes. The print heads are purged of Model and Support material, and the wiper removes excess material from them. 3. Repeat the purge sequence. 4. Perform the pattern test. If the results of the pattern test are still poor: 1. Manually clean the print heads (see "Cleaning the Print Heads and the Roller" on page 6-28). 2. Perform the purge sequence. 3. Perform the pattern test. If the results of the pattern test are still poor: 1. Carefully clean the print heads again, making sure there is no residue left on them. 2. Perform the purge sequence.
Page 150: Cleaning And Replacing The Roller Waste Collector
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Cleaning and Normally, you do not have to inspect and clean the roller waste collector. This Replacing the is done by a customer-support engineer during regular maintenance visits. Roller Waste Occasionally, however, a blockage or damaged scraper may cause material Collector leakage on the build tray. If this happens, remove the roller waste collector to inspect it. To remove the roller waste collector: 1. Start the Head Cleaning wizard from the Options menu (see on page 6- 31). This wizard prepares the printer for removing the roller waste collector. 2. When the following screen appears, confirm that the tray is empty and that the printer cover is closed, then click Next. Figure 6-43 Wizard confirmation screen The print block moves to the center of build tray, and the tray lowers. 3. When the following screen appears, open the cover. Figure 6-44 Wizard screen that appears when you can begin the procedure Warning: Hot Surface The print head orifice plates (bottom surface) may be hot. Do not touch ...
Page 151 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 5. Loosen the two side screws securing the UV lamp assembly, and place the assembly on top of the print block. Figure 6-45 UV-lamp-assembly securing screws 6. Pull out the drain-tube release mechanism to raise the tubes out of the waste collector (see figure below). Figure 6-46 Freeing the drain tubes from the waste collector Important: Pull out the release mechanism completely. 7. Support the roller waste collector with your hand under it, and use a 3 mm hex (Allen) key to loosen the screws. Figure 6-47 Roller-waste-collector screws DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-37...
Page 152 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 8. Pull out the roller waste collector, taking care not to touch or damage the scraper. Warning The scraper is very sharp! Proceed with caution. Figure 6-48 Roller waste collector 9. Inspect the roller waste collector. ❒ If the scraper is damaged, replace the entire roller-waste-collector unit. ❒ If the scraper is not damaged, carefully remove any waste from the waste channel, taking care not to damage the scraper. If necessary, use IPA or ethanol to dissolve residue material in the waste channel and on the scraper. Note: The waste collected in this unit contains uncured resin. Dispose of it in accordance with applicable environmental regulations. To install the roller waste collector: 1. Carefully insert the roller-waste-collector unit. 2. Secure the unit evenly, by alternately tightening the screws. 3. Return the drain-tube release mechanism to its original position by pushing it in all the way. Figure 6-49 Returning the drain tubes from to the waste collector 4. Move the print block back to the middle of the printer. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 153 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 5. Replace the UV lamp assembly in the printer, making sure that the cable fits into the slot together with the side securing screw. Figure 6-50 UV-lamp cable in place after securing the assembly 6. Remove all tools from the printer, and close the cover. 7. In the wizard screen, click Cancel to return the build tray to its former position. Aligning the You should check the alignment of the print heads— Print Heads • once a month • after replacing one or more heads • if model quality is not acceptable even after cleaning the orifice plate on the bottom of the print block (see "Cleaning the Print Heads and the Roller" on page 6-28). This procedure takes about 20 minutes. To check the alignment of the print heads: 1. Prepare— ❒ a transparency sheet, at least 10.5 × 13 centimeters in size (4.5 × 5.5 inches)—about one-quarter of the standard A-4 or Letter size ❒ any type of adhesive tape, to fasten the transparency sheet to the build tray 2. Start the Head Alignment wizard from the Options menu.
Page 154 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 4. In the wizard screen, select the check box to confirm that the cover is closed, and click Next. Figure 6-51 Door is closed confirmation screen 5. When instructed to do so, place the transparency on the build tray— near the left and rear edges of the tray, as shown in the following figure. Figure 6-52 Positioning the transparency on the build tray 6. Make sure that the transparency sheet is lying flat, and tape it to the tray. 7. In the wizard screen, select the check box to confirm that the transparency sheet is on the build tray, and click Next. The printer prints the head alignment test on the transparency. 8. When the following screen appears, remove the transparency. Figure 6-53 Head Alignment wizard—steps 8–10 DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-40...
Page 155 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer The transparency sheet is printed with sets of vertical lines in two rows, each showing the results from a different print head. Figure 6-54 Sample head-alignment test ❒ The top row was printed by the head used for applying Model material when producing models. From right to left, the columns represent heads M1, M2, M3, respectively. (There is no column for head M0 because its alignment is used as a reference for aligning all other heads.) ❒ 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 and lower rows, are aligned, as in Figure 6-54. In the example shown, no change to the head alignment is necessary. If other lines in the set are aligned, you need to change the alignment—in the next wizard screen. 10. In the wizard screen shown in Figure 6-53, select the Transparency removed check box, and click Next. The first in a series of alignment screens appears. Figure 6-55 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. 12. Click Next.
Page 156 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer The following screen is displayed. Figure 6-56 Parameter update confirmation 13. Continue as follows: ❒ To make the alignment changes in the printer, make sure that Yes is selected, and click Next. ❒ To recheck the alignment test results before making the alignment changes in the printer, click Previous. ❒ If you do not want to make alignment changes in the printer at this time, select No and click Next. 14. In the following screen, you can 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 Repeat the test, 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 End the wizard, then click Next. Figure 6-57 Repeat head alignment option DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 157: Optimizing (Calibrating) Print Heads
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer If the Head Alignment wizard was opened from the Head Optimization wizard after replacing print heads, the printer application closes and re- opens when you click Done in the final wizard screen. Optimizing The condition of the print heads directly affects the quality of printed models. (Calibrating) To maintain optimum printing, test the print heads, and calibrate them to the Print Heads best working configuration possible by running the Head Optimization wizard. This procedure takes about one hour to complete. If, during the optimization process, the wizard determines that a print head is faulty—or that it is negatively affecting layer uniformity with the current head configuration—the wizard instructs you to replace it. If this happens, you can continue the wizard to replace the print head, or abort the wizard, to replace the head at another time. This procedure takes about 2.5 hours more to complete. Run the Head Optimization wizard every 300 hours of printing or whenever the condition of print heads is negatively affecting the quality of printed models, or if you suspect that there is a problem with one or more of the print heads. To test and calibrate the print heads: 1. Prepare— ❒ isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) ❒ disposable cleaning gloves (any clean, powder-free protective gloves) ❒ the supplied cleaning cloth or equivalent ❒ ...
Page 158 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 3. Start the Head Optimization wizard from the Options menu. Figure 6-58 Starting the Head Optimization wizard 4. In the opening wizard screen, click Next to begin. 5. Close the printer cover, and confirm this in the wizard screen. 6. In the following screen, make sure Optimize all print heads is selected, and click Next. Figure 6-59 Procedure selection screen The print block moves into position for cleaning and inspecting the print heads. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-44...
Page 159 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 7. When the following screen appears, clean the print heads. Figure 6-60 Clean print heads screen Warning: Hot Surface The print head orifice plates (bottom surface) may be hot. Do not touch them with your bare hands, and proceed with caution. 8. Place the mirror on the build tray. 9. Put on the cleaning gloves. 10. Soak the cleaning cloth with alcohol. 11. Clean the orifice plates, with a back-and-forth motion. Use the mirror to make sure that you have removed all of the residue material. Figure 6-61 Cleaning the print heads 12. When the print heads are clean, select the confirmation check box in the wizard screen and click Next. 13. Remove the cleaning materials and the mirror from the printer, and close the cover. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-45...
Page 160 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 14. Confirm the items listed in the next screen, and click Next. Figure 6-62 Confirmation screen Make sure that the scale for weighing the printed samples is calibrated. Inaccurate readings may result in print heads that are not optimized for quality printing, or a false indication that a head needs to be replaced. 15. Select the confirmation check box in the wizard screen and click Next. Figure 6-63 Printing Weight Test The printer prepares itself for printing (by running the reinitaite process). Then, 6 or 12 samples are printed on the build tray, depending on the printer model. This can take up to 80 minutes. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-46...
Page 161 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 16. When the following screen appears, open the printer cover to inspect the printed samples. Figure 6-64 Data-entry screen for some Objet30 printers Figure 6-65 Data-entry screen for Objet30 Pro printers The layout of the data entry screen matches the printed samples on the build tray. You enter the data for the sample indicated by in the screen. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-47...
Page 162 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 17. Using the Missing Nozzles ruler, determine the number of clogged (“missing”) nozzles. Figure 6-66 Missing Nozzles ruler Clogged nozzles are seen in Weight Test samples as missing rows of printed material. a. Place the alignment line on the right side of the ruler next to the bottom of the sample, as shown. Figure 6-67 Aligning the ruler to the bottom of the sample DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-48...
Page 163 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer b. Check if there is a space below the line on the ruler marked “Maximum height of sample.” A space below this line indicates missing nozzles at the extremes of the printed sample. The numbers indicate how many printed rows (nozzles) are missing. Remember this number. Figure 6-68 Measuring missing nozzles at the extremes of the sample Note: Because you align the ruler to the bottom of the printed sample, missing nozzles at the bottom edge are measured at the top of the ruler. c. Check if there are gaps in the printed sample by matching the gap in the sample with a line on the Missing Nozzles ruler. The number on the ruler next to the line indicates the number of missing rows/nozzles. Figure 6-69 Measuring a missing row in a printed sample In the example above, the number of missing nozzles is two (2). DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-49...
Page 164 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer d. Enter the total number of missing rows in the wizard screen (in the “missing nozzles” field). Note: During this procedure, the roller does not smooth the surface of the printed samples. Do not mistake the visible lines in the sample for missing material. Figure 6-70 Printed sample for Head Optimization 18. Carefully remove the sample, weigh it, and enter the weight in the wizard screen. Be sure to remove and weigh the entire sample, even if it breaks into several pieces. 19. After entering the number of missing nozzles and the weight of the sample, click Apply or press Enter. The data-entry-indicator moves to the next position. 20. E nter the data for all printed samples. To change an entry, click Edit Data, enter the correct data, and click Save. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-50...
Page 165 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 21. When you have entered the data for all printed samples, click Next. The wizard uses the data collected to analyze the condition of the print heads, and optimizes them so they print models with a uniform layer of material. ❒ If the heads are in satisfactory condition, the following wizard screen appears. Figure 6-71 Final wizard screen, after optimizing print heads Note: To apply the optimized settings to the print heads, the printer application must be restarted. When you click Done, the application closes and re-opens. ❒ If the wizard determines that a print head is faulty—or that it is negatively affecting model quality with the current head configuration—the wizard instructs you to replace it. In this case, the following screen appears. Figure 6-72 Defective print heads found However, after optimizing print heads following their replacement, a screen appears enabling you to continue by running the Head Alignment wizard (see page 35). This is necessary before printing models. If you choose not to align the heads at this time, the printer application closes and re-opens when you click Done. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-51...
Page 166 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 22. C hoose Replace faulty head(s) if you are prepared to replace the print heads now. or— Choose Abort wizard if you want to replace the print heads at another time. Replace print heads only after consulting with a Stratasys- authorized customer-support engineer. To replace print heads, you need these tools and materials: ❒ replacement print head(s) ❒ isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) ❒ disposable cleaning gloves (supplied with the print head; or use any clean, powder-free protective gloves) ❒ a supplied cleaning cloth or equivalent ❒ the scale supplied for use in the Head Optimization wizard (Weight Test) ❒ the Missing Nozzles ruler If you are replacing print heads now, the wizard guides you through the procedure when you click Next. Continue with "Preparing the Print Block" on page 6-54.
Page 167 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer The Head Optimization wizard guides you through the procedure of replacing a print head, and adjusts printer components to enable you to perform it. Only replace a print head with the aid of the wizard. The entire procedure takes about 2.5 hours, and consists of the following phases: A. Identifying the head(s) needing replacement. This is normally done by the Head Optimization wizard. Otherwise, evidence of physical damage to the head surface or a malfunction message indicates which head needs replacing. B. Preparing the print block for head replacement. This is done automatically when you run the wizard. C. Removing the defective print head. D. Installing a new print head. E. Optimizing the print heads (done automatically by the wizard). F. Performing head alignment. To replace a print head: 1. Prepare— ❒ replacement print head(s) ❒ isopropanol (IPA—isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol (ethyl alcohol) ❒ disposable cleaning gloves (supplied with the print head; or use any clean, powder-free protective gloves) ❒ ...
Page 168 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 5. Select the print head(s) needing replacement, and click Next. Preparing the Print Block Figure 6-74 Head selection screen The printer heats and empties the print block, and prepares the printer. Figure 6-75 Printer preparation progress screen 6. The following screen appears when the printer is ready for you to replace print heads. Figure 6-76 Printer ready for head replacement DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-54...
Page 169 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 7. Put on the protective gloves and open the printer cover. Note: The printer disconnects power to the heads for your safety. Figure 6-77 Print-head replacement confirmation Removing the Defective Head To replace the Model print head, you must first remove the Support print head. Removing the Support Print Head DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-55...
Page 170 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer ➢ If you do not need to replace the Model print head, continue with "Removing the Defective Head" on the previous page. Removing the Model Print Head DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-56...
Page 171 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Installing the Model Print Head ➢ When re-installing a used print head, always replace the O- ring seals with new seals. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-57...
Page 172 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-58...
Page 173 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Installing the Support Print Head ➢ When re-installing a used print head, always replace the O- ring seals with new seals. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-59...
Page 174 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-60...
Page 175 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 8. In the Replace print heads screen, select the check box to confirm that you have replaced the head(s), and click Next. Figure 6-78 Head replacement confirmation 9. Confirm that the heads are level and even by selecting the check box in the following wizard screen, and click Next. Figure 6-79 Installation-check screen 10. In the next wizard screen, confirm that you have removed all tools and objects from the printer and that the cover is closed. Figure 6-80 Cleared-tray confirmation screen The wizard continues by heating the heads, then filling and purging them. If there are no installation problems, the optimization procedure begins, to DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-61...
Page 176 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer calibrate the print heads to the best working configuration—see "Optimizing (Calibrating) Print Heads" on page 6-43. After this procedure, you should run the Head Alignment wizard before printing models. If installation problems are detected, the wizard alerts you and instructs you how to continue (see "Installation Problems", next). 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—the following message appears. Figure 6-81 Used print head message ❒ To continue with the installation of this print head, click Yes. ❒ To remove this print head and install a new one, click No. • If the printer software does not detect the replaced head, the following warning screen appears. Figure 6-82 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 Next. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-62...
Page 177: Testing And Calibrating The Uv Lamp
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Testing and The effective UV radiation from the lamp used for curing models can change Calibrating the over time. Too little UV curing can cause some of the printing material to UV Lamp remain in a liquid state, on models, when printing has finished. Test the lamp and calibrate its effective UV radiation after every 300 hours of printing, or when you suspect that this is necessary, by running the UV Calibration Wizard. The wizard compares the measured radiation to the recommended radiation level. When calibrating the lamp, the wizard attempts to adjust the radiation level, if necessary. • If the reading is within the acceptable range, the wizard continues. • If further adjustment is necessary, the test is repeated. • If the UV radiation is too low to be properly adjusted, the wizard indicates that the lamp’s radiation for the printing mode is unacceptable. Before testing and calibrating the UV lamp, make sure the glass lens is clean. For easy access, run the Head Cleaning Wizard, and use the special cleaning pad supplied. ...
Page 178 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer The following screen appears. Figure 6-84 Printer preparation 4. Expose the UV sensor by sliding its cover to the right, and check that the glass is clean. Figure 6-85 UV sensor exposed 5. If necessary, clean the glass over the UV sensor with a cleaning cloth and alcohol (IPA). Do not use the abrasive cleaning pad to clean the glass. When you click Next, the UV lamp powers up and stabilizes. (This takes several minutes.) Then, the print block passes over the sensor and the wizard compares the measured radiation to the recommended level. Figure 6-86 UV measurement progress If the UV level measured is not acceptable, the wizard calibrates the UV lamp by adjusting the current supplied to it, and then tests it again. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-64...
Page 179 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer When completed, the wizard displays the condition of the lamp, after calibration. Figure 6-87 Final condition of UV lamp—acceptable intensity level Figure 6-88 Final condition of UV lamp—unacceptable intensity level 6. If the wizard cannot adjust the lamp to within the specified UV intensity range, perform the following steps and run the wizard again before replacing the lamp: ❒ Check that the UV-lamp glass is clean. ❒ Check that the UV sensor is completely uncovered and that the protective glass is clean. If the results are still unacceptable, contact customer support for further advice. 7. Click Next, close the UV sensor cover, and confirm this in the wizard screen. Then click Next to complete the wizard. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-65...
Page 180: Calibrating The Load Cells
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Figure 6-89 Final UV Calibration Wizard screen Calibrating the Load cells are sensors that measure the weight of the material cartridges and Load Cells the waste container in the printer. It is important that you periodically check that the weight measurements are accurate to prevent unnecessary waste of printing materials. It is recommended that you calibrate the load cells after 500 hours of printing, or every six months. To calibrate load cells: 1. Start the Load Cell Calibration wizard from the Options menu. 2. Select one or more load cells that you want to calibrate, and click Next. Figure 6-90 Load cell selection 3. Remove the cartridge, as instructed by the wizard, and close the materials drawer. Important: Make sure that the materials drawer is closed before continuing. Otherwise, calibration will be affected. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-66...
Page 181 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 4. Select the confirmation check box and click Next. Figure 6-91 Confirmation of cartridge removal 5. 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 6-92 Level stabilization 6. Select the check box, and click Next. If you need to calibrate more than one load cell, the next calibration screen appears. Repeat steps 5 and 6 until all of the load cells are calibrated. 7. Click Done in the final wizard screen. Figure 6-93 Final wizard screen DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-67...
Page 182: Replacing The Waste Container 6
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 8. Replace the cartridge. When replacing the waste container, hold the waste bag with one hand while connecting the waste tube. Otherwise, the bag will be twisted, and the flow of waste will be restricted. Make sure to replace the metal cover over the waste container. Operating the printer without the cover results in an inaccurate measurement of the waste weight, which will cause waste to overflow into the printer. Replacing the If the printer exhaust is not connected to an external ventilation system, a Odor Filter built-in activated-carbon filter removes odors from printing materials. This filter should be replaced regularly (as necessary) to keep your working environment pleasant. T his is normally done during the preventive- maintenance routine. To replace the odor filter: 1. Locate the filter drawer at the rear of the printer and pull it open. Figure 6-94 Rear of the cartridge printer 2. Remove the used filter. (You can push it out from underneath the drawer.) Figure 6-95 Odor filter in drawer 3. Insert a new filter and close the drawer.
Page 183 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Replacing the The UV lamp used for curing models has a long, but limited, working life. You UV Lamp can test and adjust its effective power with the UV Calibration wizard (see "Testing and Calibrating the UV Lamp" on page 6-63). If you need to replace the UV lamp, follow these instructions: 1. Start the UV Lamp Replacement wizard from the Options menu (see "Starting the Material Replacement wizard" on page 6-14). Warning Before continuing, make sure that the safety interlock in the printer cover is not defeated, and that the lamp is not hot. 2. Make sure that the build tray is empty, and confirm this in the wizard screen. Then, close the printer cover and click Next. Figure 6-96 “Empty tray” confirmation screen The axes move to the “home” position. 3. On the UV-assembly cover, loosen (do not remove) the thumbscrew indicated in the photograph below. Figure 6-97 UV-assembly cover 4. Remove the other four (4) thumbscrews that secure the UV-assembly cover, and remove the cover. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-69...
Page 184 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 5. Disconnect the UV lamp cable and the fan cable. Figure 6-98 Disconnecting the UV lamp assembly (top view) 6. Loosen the two side screws securing the UV lamp assembly to the printer. Figure 6-99 UV-lamp-assembly 7. Remove the assembly, and place it on a flat surface. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-70...
Page 185 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 8. Loosen the screws securing the UV lamp cover and remove the cover. Figure 6-100 UV-lamp-cover screws 9. Loosen the two screws securing the UV reflector. Figure 6-101 UV-reflector screws DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-71...
Page 186 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 10. Remove the UV reflector by raising it slightly, then pulling it out of the housing at an angle, from the bottom. Figure 6-102 Removing the UV reflector from the UV assembly 11. Discard the old UV reflector and lamp. Dispose of the used UV lamp in accordance with environmental and safety requirements. Warning: Broken UV lamp hazard UV lamps contain mercury. Deal with broken lamps with caution. Ventilate the room thoroughly. Use protective gloves when collecting mercury and lamp components. Remove spilled mercury with a method that prevents the generation of mercury vapor, such as a syringe, packing tape or paper. Place the broken lamp, mercury and contaminated materials in an air- tight, non-metallic container. 12. Insert the new UV lamp/reflector unit into the housing. 13. Make sure that the UV-lamp cable is in place, inside the housing, and then tighten the securing screws. Figure 6-103 Cable position when installing the UV lamp 14. Replace the UV lamp cover, and tighten the securing screws. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-72...
Page 187 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 15. Replace the UV lamp assembly in the printer, making sure that the cable fits into the slot together with the side securing screw. Figure 6-104 UV-lamp cable after replacing the assembly 16. Tighten the two side securing screws. 17. In the wizard screen, confirm that you have replaced the UV lamp and that the black strip is attached, then click Next. Figure 6-105 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 6-106 Final wizard screen Note: The UV lamp remains on until you click Done . DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-73...
Page 188: Preventive Maintenance Tasks 6
Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer After replacing the UV lamp: Calibrate its power by running the UV Calibration wizard (see "Testing and Calibrating the UV Lamp" on page 6-63). Wait at least two minutes for the UV lamp to cool before starting the UV Calibration wizard. Calibrate the new UV lamp again after 100 hours of printing. Replacing the The Model and Support filters are replaced during the periodic preventive Material Filter maintenance routine (see "Preventive Maintenance Tasks" on page 6-99). The material filters are located at the back of the materials drawer, as shown below.
Page 189 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 2. Close the printer application. 3. Shut down the printer computer, wait 60 seconds after the monitor goes blank, and turn off the main power switch. Caution: The monitor goes blank as soon as the remote desktop link terminates— before computer shutdown. Turning off the printer before computer shutdown can cause damage. 4. Put on protective gloves. Warning: Toxic and Corrosive Materials Prolonged contact with resins could cause skin irritation. Put on protective gloves before continuing. 5. Open the materials drawer. 6. Remove the cover from the waste container. Figure 6-108 Removing the waste container cover 7. Unscrew the cap connecting the waste-drain tube to the container. 8. Carefully lift out the container and remove it from the printer. 9. Place paper towels in the waste compartment to absorb any material leaks.
Page 190 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 10. Extend the materials drawer to the end of its track, as follows: a. Push the drawer slightly inward. b. Lift the extension latch and pull out the drawer, all the way. Figure 6-109 Materials drawer extension latch 11. Remove the cable tie securing the Model and Support filters to the printer. Figure 6-110 Material filters secured to the printer DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-76...
Page 191 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 12. Disconnect the feed tube from the Model material filter, as shown. Important: To disconnect the feed tube, hold the fitting at the end of the tube in place and turn the filter. Otherwise, the feed tube will be twisted and material might leak. Figure 6-111 Model and Support material filters 13. Make sure that the fitting at the end of the feed-tube remains attached to the tube. Re-attach it, if necessary. 14. Cover the filter with a cleaning cloth (or paper towels) to absorb material spillage. 15. On the new filter, identify the side marked INLET. Figure 6-112 Inlet side DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-77...
Page 192 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 16. Attach the inlet side of the new filter to the disconnected tube. Important: To attach the filter, hold the fitting at the end of the feed tube in place and turn the filter. Otherwise, the feed tube will be twisted and material might leak. 17. Disconnect the old filter from the outlet tube. 18. Discard the old filter Caution: The filter contains uncured printing material. Discard the filter in accordance with applicable environmental regulations. 19. Cut and remove the cable tie securing the fitting at the end of the outlet tube. Figure 6-113 Tube with cable tie and fitting 20. R emove the fitting from the end of the tube. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-78...
Page 193 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 21. Attach the fitting to the new filter. Important: To attach the filter, hold the fitting at the end of the feed tube in place and turn the filter. Otherwise, the feed tube will be twisted and material might leak. Figure 6-114 Fitting attached to the new filter DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-79...
Page 194 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 22. A ttach the outlet tube to the fitting. Make sure that the tube is firmly attached by pushing it onto the entire length of the fitting shaft. Figure 6-115 Tube attached to the new filter 23. S ecure the tube to the fitting with a cable tie. Cut off excess length. Figure 6-116 Tube secured with a cable tie 24. R epeat steps 2–13 to replace the Support filter. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-80...
Page 195 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 25. W ipe the filters, tubes and surrounding area to remove material leaks and spills. 26. P osition the filters in their slots. Figure 6-117 Material filters positioned in the printer 27. Secure both filters to the printer with a long cable tie. Cut off excess length. To secure both filters properly, route the cable tie through the holes in the filter holder (see Figure 6-117). Figure 6-118 Filters secured in the printer DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-81...
Page 196 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer To return the printer to operating mode: 1. Place the waste container in the materials drawer, and attach the cap connected to the drain tube. Important: Hold the waste bag with one hand while attaching the waste tube. Otherwise, the bag will be twisted and the flow of material will be restricted. Figure 6-119 Attaching the waste drain tube DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-82...
Page 197 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 2. Place the cover over the waste container, and make sure that the drain tube is free and not bent. Important: 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. Figure 6-120 Cover installed on the waste container 3. Close the materials drawer. Replacing the Pump tubes in Objet30 Desktop V3 printers are replaced during periodic Pump Tubes preventive maintenance (see "Preventive Maintenance Tasks" on page 6-99). To replace the pump tubes: 1. Prepare the following tools and materials: ❒ key ❒ flat screwdriver ❒ protective gloves ❒ cleaning cloths ❒ wire cutter ❒ ...
Page 198 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 2. Close the printer application. 3. Shut down the printer computer, wait 60 seconds after the monitor goes blank, and turn off the main power switch. Caution: The monitor goes blank as soon as the remote link terminates—before computer shut down. Turning off the before the computer shutdown can cause damage. 4. Open the materials drawer. Figure 6-121 Material pumps 5. Remove the three screws securing the right printer panel and remove the panel. Caution: Remove the screws carefully so that they do not fall and scratch the printer panel. Figure 6-122 Removing the right printer panel DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-84...
Page 199 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 6. Put on protective gloves. Warning: Toxic and Corrosive Materials Prolonged contact with resins could cause skin irritation. Put on protective gloves before continuing. 7. Remove the cover from the waste container. Figure 6-123 Removing the waste container cover 8. Unscrew the cap connecting the waste tube to the container. 9. Carefully lift out the container and remove it from the printer. 10. Place cleaning cloths in the waste compartment to absorb any material leaks. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-85...
Page 200 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 11. Extend the materials drawer to the end of its track, as follows: a. Push the drawer slightly inward. b. Lift the extension latch and pull out the drawer, all the way. Figure 6-124 Materials drawer Waste Pump To replace the waste pump tube: Tube 1. On top of the waste pump, locate the tube near the PRESSURE label. Figure 6-125 Tubes connected to the waste pump 2. Label (mark) the tube. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-86...
Page 201 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 3. Carefully cut and remove the cable ties on the ends of the tube extending from the pump. Figure 6-126 Waste pump 4. Disconnect the tubes with their fittings from the ends of the tube extending from the pump. If you experience difficulty disconnecting the tube fittings from tubes in the pump, make a small slit in the tube, as shown. Figure 6-127 Tubes disconnected from the waste pump DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-87...
Page 202 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 5. Release the tube latch, as shown. Figure 6-128 Releasing the tube latch 6. Remove the pump tube with its holder from the pump assembly. Figure 6-129 Removed tube and tube holder 7. Remove the tube from the tube holder and discard the tube. Caution: The tube contains uncured printing material. Discard it in accordance with applicable environmental regulations. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-88...
Page 203 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 8. Attach a new tube to the tube holder. Make sure that the tube extends equally on each side of the tube holder. 9. Insert the tube holder into the pump assembly. 10. Close the tube latch. When the latch is closed, you should hear a clicking sound. Caution: Crimped tubes can cause material leaks that can damage the printer. When securing the tube latch, make sure that you do not crimp (pinch) the surrounding tubes. 11. Attach the tube you labeled in step 2 to the tube extending from the pump near the PRESSURE label. 12. Attach the other tube to the tube extending from the pump near the SUCTION label. 13. Secure each tube to its fitting with a cable tie. Cut off excess length. 14. Remove the label y ou attached in step 2. Support Pump To replace the support pump tube: Tube 1. Close the drawer approximately half way so that the Support pump is accessible from the opening in the chassis on the right side of the printer. Figure 6-130 Right side of printer 2. On the Support pump, locate the tube near the PRESSURE label. 3. Label (mark) the tube so that you can connect it correctly later on.
Page 204 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Model Pump To replace the model pump tube: Tube 1. At the back of the Model pump, remove the screw shown below, using a 4-mm h ex (Allen) key. Figure 6-131 Model pump—securing screw to remove 2. Loosen (do not remove) the other securing crew. Figure 6-132 Model pump—securing screw to loosen DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-90...
Page 205 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 3. Turn the Model pump assembly so that the pump is facing you. Figure 6-133 Model pump assembly turned 4. On the top of the Model pump, locate the tube near the PRESSURE label. 5. Label (mark) the tube. The replacement procedure is the same as for the waste pump. Continue with step 2 on page 6-86, and then return the pump to its working position. To return the Model pump to its working position: 1. Turn the Model pump s o that it is facing the drawer. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-91...
Page 206 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 2. Secure the Model pump to the printer with two screws. Insert and tighten the securing screw you removed before, and tighten the screw that you loosened. Figure 6-134 Model pump in the working position Returning To return the printer to working order: Printer to 1. Remove the cleaning cloths from the waste compartment and make sure Working Order that the compartment is clean. 2. Place the waste container in the materials drawer, and attach the cap connected to the drain tube. Important: Hold the waste bag with one hand while attaching the waste tube. Otherwise the bag will become twisted, and the flow of material will be restricted. Figure 6-135 Waste container with waste tube attached DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-92...
Page 207 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 3. Place the cover over the waste container, and make sure that the drain tube is free and not bent. Important: 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. Figure 6-136 Cover installed on the waste container 4. Attach the right printer panel. Make sure that the materials drawer is open while you attach the panel. 5. Close the materials drawer. 6. Make sure that the right panel and the drawer are aligned properly. 7. Switch on the printer. Important: Switching on the printer activates the waste pump and stops working when you open the printer application. If you hear unusual noises from the pumps when switching on the printer, verify that the waste pump tube holder is installed properly. If necessary, remove the tube holder and re-install it. 8. Open the printer control application. Important: If you hear unusual noises from the area of the pumps during printing verify that the Model pump or Support pump tube holders are installed properly. If necessary, remove the tube holders and re-install them. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 208 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Built-in Tests A sanity check of the software parameters is available from the Built-in Tests interface. Because this affects the operation of the printer, you can only open the Built-in Tests interface when the system is not printing. Accessing Built-in Tests To open the Built-in Tests screen, do one of the following: • From the Options menu, select Built-In Tests. • Press Ctrl+Alt+B. Figure 6-137 Selecting Built-In Tests from the Options menu The Built In Tests screen lists pre-configured tests. Figure 6-138 Built In Tests screen DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-94...
Page 209 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Status The “S” column shows the results of the test after you run it: Test successfully completed. Test failed. Unknown results. (The test has not been run yet.) To run the test: ➢ Select the check box and click After you run the test, the Save and View command buttons are added to the Built In Tests screen. Figure 6-139 BIT command buttons Test Results To save and view a report of all tests: ➢ Use the Save and View command buttons. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-95...
Page 210 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Replacing the Printer waste contains partially cured polymeric material, collected during Waste normal operation and maintenance of the printer. For safety and Container environmental reasons, this material is kept in a special leak-proof, disposable container. The container has a capacity of 1.8 kilograms of waste material—usually enough for several weeks of printer use. The printer application displays a warning message when there are 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 printing job or 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 printer: ➢ In the main printer interface screen, click the display toggle to view the printer indicators. Figure 6-140 Printer interface, showing waste weight (red background indicates operator alert) The waste container consists of a sealed bag inside a cardboard box. You typically dispose of the entire waste container—including the box. Therefore, you must assemble a new box and insert a new waste bag before you can install it in the printer. Replacement boxes, waste bags, and sealing caps are supplied in the Objet30 printer start-up kit and in the preventive-maintenance kit. DOC-34022 Rev. D 6-96...
Page 211 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer To prepare a new waste container: 1. Assemble the cardboard box, making sure to punch out the perforated sections. 2. Fold a new waste bag—so it fits in the box—and insert the bag’s screw- connector into the hole in the top of the box. Note: Do not close the box until you connect the waste drain tube from the printer. To replace the waste container: 1. Open the materials drawer. 2. Remove the fireproof cover from the waste container. Figure 6-141 Removing the waste-container cover 3. Unscrew the cap connecting the waste drain tube to the container. 4. Carefully lift out the waste container to remove it from the printer. 5. Close the full container with the cap supplied with the new waste container. 6. Place the new waste container in the materials drawer, and attach the cap connected to the drain tube. Important: Hold the waste bag with one hand while attaching the waste tube. Otherwise, the bag will be twisted, and the flow of waste will be restricted.
Page 212 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 7. Close the new waste-container box. Figure 6-142 Waste container with drain tube attached 8. Place the fireproof cover over the waste container, making sure that the drain tube is free and not bent. Figure 6-143 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. 9. Close the materials drawer. Dispose of the full waste container in accordance with environmental and safety requirements. The painted exterior plastic panels of Objet30 3D printers have a durable ...
Page 213 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer 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 6-144 Backup and restore desktop icons One of the wizards listed in the Options menu is ReInitiate. You normally do ReInitiate not have to run this wizard. The process that this wizard controls runs Wizard automatically, when needed, as part of the Pre-print mode (before printing begins). Run this wizard only if a Stratasys Customer Support engineer instructs you to do so. Preventive Performing regular preventive maintenance improves system reliability, Maintenance reduces downtime, and prolongs the life of your system. Perform the tasks Tasks listed below once a year, or every 1000 printing hours, whichever comes first. Performing these tasks on schedule: • improves system reliability • reduces system downtime and costly repairs • protects and prolongs the life of your system The first preventive maintenance (after purchase) is performed by a Stratasys Service Engineer. Note: To perform Preventive Maintenance routine, you will need the Preventive ...
Page 214 Objet30 User Guide 6 Operating and Maintaining the Objet30 3D Printer Replace the Model and Support material filters. See "Replacing the Material Filter" on page 6-74. Replace the Model, Support and Waste material pump-tubes. See "Replacing the Pump Tubes" on page 6-83. Roller Waste Collector Replace the roller waste collector. See "Cleaning and Replacing the Roller Waste Collector " on page 6-36. UV Lamp Replace the black strip in the UV reflector. See "Replacing the UV Lamp" on page 6-69. Clean the glass lens of the UV lamp assembly with the special 3M cleaning pad. ...
Page 215: Photo-Bleaching Instructions 7
Handling Printed Models Removing Models After Printing Removing the Support Material Post-Printing Treatment for Models Made with VeroClear 7-4 Photo-Bleaching Instructions Storing Models DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 216: Removing Models After Printing
Objet30 User Guide 7 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 printer, it is best to let the printed models cool in the printer, with the cover closed, as long as possible. If the 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. 3. Place the models on a flat surface, and cover them with a cardboard box or paper hood. This allows the models to cool slowly and evenly. 4. Let the models cool for several hours. Removing the Support Material After printed models have cooled, the support material must be removed. This can be done by different methods, depending on the size of the model, how delicate it is, the amount and location of the support material, and other factors. Use the following methods as a guide, and adapt them (or a combination of them) for finishing the models you are handling. SUP705 (FullCure705) can be removed from printed models using the ...
Page 217 Objet30 User Guide 7 Handling Printed Models Removing For most models, the most efficient way to remove support material is by Support Material using a high-pressure water jet. One suitable system is the Objet WaterJet with Water cleaning unit. Pressure Figure 7-1 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 Soak models in a 1-percent solution of caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) to SUP705 with remove support material from difficult-to-reach areas and to give the model a Caustic Soda 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. Mixing it with water generates heat that could ignite other materials. Never pour water into caustic soda. When diluting the solution, always add caustic soda to water. Take adequate safety precautions; always use nitrile gloves when handling caustic soda and models soaked in it. DOC-34022 Rev. D...
Page 218: Post-Printing Treatment For Models Made With Veroclear
Objet30 User Guide 7 Handling Printed Models Post-Printing Treatment for Models Made with VeroClear Models made with VeroClear (RGD810) have a slight yellow tint when removed from the printer. This is especially true for models printed with a glossy finish. The yellow tint fades naturally over time, but you can greatly accelerate this process by using a suitable photobleaching treatment. As a rule, best clarity is achieved when parts are printed with a matte finish, and treated as explained below. Photobleaching models involves exposing them to light. To achieve highly controlled and predictable results, a professional illumination chamber is recommended. However, adequate results may be obtained using ordinary desk lamps fitted with suitable fluorescent elements. Figure 7-2 Left: Illumination chamber; Right: Desk lamps Photo- Follow these instructions for photobleaching printed models. Bleaching • The fluorescent lamps should be rated 45W, 6500K. Instructions • When using desk lamps, place the models in a container lined with aluminum foil. Use at least two lamps, more when treating models in a large container. • Arrange the models with enough space between them to allow light to reach all sides of each model. • Verify that the ambient temperature around the models is approximately 40°C (104°F). Higher temperatures may cause model distortion; lower temperatures may not produce satisfactory results. When using desk lamps, you can achieve the required temperature by positioning the lamps ...
Page 219: Storing Models
Objet30 User Guide 7 Handling Printed Models Storing Models Models are cured as they are printed, making them safe and stable for a long time. However, proper storage conditions are necessary to prevent deforming. • Keep printed models at room temperature and in a low-humidity environment. • Do not expose models to direct sunlight and other heat sources. DOC-34022 Rev. D...

Stratasys Objet30 User Manual

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Handling Trays

Applying Additional Objet Studio Features

Customizing Objet Studio

Professional Mode Features

Getting Additional Objet Studio Assistance

Objet Studio Version, Material Module and Licensed Features

Monitoring and Managing Print Jobs

Operating and Maintaining the Objet30D Printer

Starting the Printer

Loading Model and Support Cartridges

6-3

Preparing the Printer

Producing Models

Resuming Production after Printing Has Stopped

Changing the Printing Material

Keeping the Printer in Idle Mode

Shutting down the Printer

Maintaining the Printer

Quick Links

Chapters

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Questions and answers

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Summary of Contents for Stratasys Objet30

Table of Contents