About
Welcome to Tiger Prints 3D
We are a creative, scientifically minded startup located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Our goal is to provide excellent 3D printing services to everyone while expanding public knowledge of 3D printing and its applications.
We want to inspire others by allowing them to create objects of beauty and usefulness with our 3D printing.
This section will guide you through the website.
- Learn more about how 3D printing works.
- To purchase a 3D printed object, head to the shop.
- Want to purchase a custom model? Upload a file to order.
- Want something designed? Go to Design Services
- Continue reading for tutorials on how to use this website.
Model Customization Explained
The object you want printed can be modified in many ways to improve the quality and features you are trying to emphasize.
Below, you will see dropdown bars explaining the variations and material properties.
Layer Height
Layer Height
Layer height determines the fineness of the print. Thicker layers are coarser, while finer layers are more refined and look better. For simple shapes and large models, the standard 0.2mm height is sufficient.
Layer height from left to right: 0.2mm, 0.15mm, 0.1mm
If you want to print a model with fine features, or make a small model, then shorter layer heights are recommended.
Special Support
Special Support
Tiger Prints 3D has printers that have two heads, one can print standard materials and the other a special support that can dissolve in water. This process can and should be chosen for either:
Models that have fine features and models (such as busts, ships, and complex geometric shapes).
Example of special support for complex overhangs.
Moving part models (such as internal wheels and gears).
Ball-and-socket joint can only be printed with special support. Note the holes for easy rinsing. Special support prints may require extra production time.
In each case, this should only be used if the model has been designed for easy printing with supports.
Infill
Infill
The amount of plastic that goes into a solid piece.
Infill from left to right: 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%
0% infill makes the model hollow, and should only be used when the model is intended to be small and light.
25% infill is standard. This is fairly strong, but light and does not use many resources.
50% infill is a bit heavier, and slightly stronger.
75% infill is even stronger and more dense.
100% infill is the strongest, but also the most expensive. Higher infill is only recommended for models experiencing plenty of use.
Materials
Standard materials.
These are best used for decorations, prototypes not subject to extreme force, and prints with two colors. Please be aware that all features should be larger than 1mm and anything smaller may not show up or be distorted when printed.
PLA – Polylactic Acid
PLA is both strong and easy to work with. It is relatively hardy, but good for making more precise models. Thin parts and small features can be done with PLA where other materials may warp and be imprecise.
ABS – Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
ABS is similar to PLA, though more difficult to work with. It makes up for this by being sturdier and having greater resistance to temperature changes.
Engineering materials
These can be used for objects that have to be tough, durable and survive conditions that would break lesser plastics. Due to their nature, they should not be used for creating models with fine features, and many cannot currently be printed with good support structures. Simple, block-like arrangements are usually best when working with these materials.
Nylon
Nylon is extremely strong, abrasion resistant and difficult to damage. While not indestructible (especially when printed thin), it can serve well for building clamps, containers and gears.
Semi-Flexible – Thermoplastic Polyurethane
These materials are somewhat flexible (especially when printed thin) and can be used for wheels, washers and other parts where some give is required. They are also quite tough.
CPE – Chlorinated Polyethylene
Tough, resistant to chemicals and weather.
Notes on what not to do:
Engineering materials should generally not be used for small or complex features. They also should not need support, and should only be built using the 0.2mm layer option. Dual prints should not involve any part using CPE or TIPU.
As always, contact us at [email protected] if you are uncertain on what to do.