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UltiMaker 3D Printer Guide

🛑 Important Reminders (Read First)

  • Always wear gloves when touching the build platform or removing prints.
  • Double-check that the build platform is correctly reinstalled — all four alignment holes must match precisely. Misalignment can damage the printer.
  • Name your file using your Slack name. If we can’t identify you, your print will be paused or canceled.
  • Not confident or unsure? Ask a Technician before printing.

3D Printing Workflow Manual

From Modeling to USB Printing with UltiMaker Cura. Applies to: UltiMaker Cura users and USB-compatible 3D printers (e.g., UltiMaker series).

📌 Workflow Overview

  1. CAD Export – Save your model as .STL or .OBJ
  2. Install Cura – Download and install Ultimaker Cura
  3. Slice in Cura – Import, adjust slicing settings
  4. Export G-code – Save file named after your Slack ID
  5. Prepare USB – Format to FAT32, save .gcode
  6. Pre-Print Self Check – Inspect setup and hardware
  7. Monitor First Layers – Watch first layers carefully
  8. Post-Print – Cooldown, safe removal, clean up

📝 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. CAD Software Recommendation

Use CAD tools optimized for 3D printing:

  • Fusion 360 – Great for parametric design and functional parts
  • Rhino – Ideal for complex, freeform modeling with great STL control
  • Tinkercad – Browser-based and beginner-friendly

❌ Avoid Maya and Blender:

  • They’re built for animation/VFX, not solid modeling, so objects might not be closed properly, or may not be watertight.
  • Blender lacks parametric accuracy and often produces non-manifold meshes.

Tip: Choose tools built for precision modeling to reduce printing errors.

2. CAD Export

  • Export as .STL, or .OBJ
  • Recommended format: .STL
  • Ensure correct unit scale (preferably millimeters)

3. Install Ultimaker Cura

  • Download from: ultimaker.com/software/ultimaker-cura
  • Add your printer model (e.g., Ultimaker S7)
  • Set Material 1 to: White PLA AA0.8
  • Need different materials? Please speak with a Technician

4. Slice in Cura

  • Import your model into Cura
  • Adjust settings (layer height, infill, supports, speed)
  • Use “Settings Guide” plugin for help (Main page > Top right corner > Market Place > Search)
  • Preview the slice before export

5. Export G-code

  • Click Save to Disk button
  • 🔔 Filename format: yourSlackSame_modelMame.gcode
  • Unnamed or unclear files will be paused or cancelled

6. Prepare USB

  • Save .gcode file to the root directory
  • Bring it to the Lab

7. Pre-Print Self-Check

  • Confirm bed leveling — all 4 holes must be in their positions
  • Ensure the nozzles are clean and not clogged. If there is something wrong, please let the technician know and choose another machine to use
  • Load the filament; verify material matches
  • Carefully install the build platform — all 4 holes must be in their positions

⚠️ If unsure, ask a Technician – improper setup can cause damage or fire, and the user would be responsible for that.

8. Monitor the First 5 Layers

  • Insert the USB stick into the printer, choose your model, and start to print.
  • Watch the print until a few layers are complete, users are responsible for not damaging the machine
  • Check:
    • Adhesion to bed
    • No warping or dragging
  • If issues occur, pause immediately and contact a Technician

9. Post-Print Safety & Cleanup

  • Wait for the bed to cool down for few minutes
  • Always wear gloves if you need to touch the platform
  • Gently remove the model and/or build plate
  • Return tools and platform exactly as found
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