3D Printing Basics
All devFrame parts have been designed to print on a small desktop printer capable of printing in ABS. No support material, raft or brim required. We test print all parts on a Lulzbot Mini.
For a full list of printed parts, with links to download stl files, please see the Frame Details page.
Material Selection
ABS, ABS or ABS. At least you can pick a color. We have found nothing that compares to ABS in strength, toughness, durability, service temp, and price. If you would like to experiment with materials, please let us know how it turns out.
Note – Some print services do not offer ABS as an option. PETG or other coploymers with properties similar to ABS might work, but they have not been tested as of this writing.
There are some optional parts, such as Landing Gear Feet, that are designed to be flexible, and should be printed in TPE/TPU. Just look for TPU at the end of the file name.
Print Settings
There are only two profiles we use for devFrame parts:
- Solid – 0.3mm layer height, 2 perimeters, 100% infill
- Standard – 0.3mm layer height, 2 perimeters, 50% infill
We use Solid if it’s a small part such as a sensor mount, or it is going to see a lot of stress like a motor mount. Otherwise, everything is printed using the Standard profile.
Note – The Frame Details section of the docs lists each part and respective print setting.
Public Resources
If you do not have your own printer, or know someone who does, make sure you check around your area before you order from an online service. You might be surprised. Some places to check:
- Libraries
- High Schools
- Universities
- Trade Schools
- Maker Spaces
- Coworking Spaces
- Robotics Clubs
- RC Flying Clubs
3D Printing Services
An internet search for “3D printing service” will yield plenty of options. However, in the spirit of trying to keeps things affordable, and sustainable, we suggest starting with these services to find a service near your location. These services help match your print requirements to service providers.