Netfabb engine for RepRap

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Draft

Introduction

Netfabb engine for RepRap creates machine code for RepRap-like 3D printers printers from the *.STL format. Such software is sometimes called a "slicer".

This software is included in the purchase of a fabbster 3D printer. Since we own one, our documentation will focus on Netfabb engine for the fabbster.

See also:

• Fabbster 3D printer
• Fabbster testing and setup

“The netfabb Engine for RepRap is a machine-specific software designed for 3D-printing with devices based on the RepRap principle. It is able to process any STL file and generates high quality toolpaths. It does not require any additional software. The [default] Engine includes a customized firmware for the BFB 3000 and the BFB RapMan, which allows accelerated moves during printing, machine control with a USB connection and direct data transfer.” (Engine for RepRap, retrieved May 10 2012)

A variant of this engine is what we would call Netfabb engine for fabbster. However, so far it is not documented as such and since a fabbster is just a somewhat modified Mendel RepRap design, most functionality should be the same. Probably the only major difference is the easy to understand USB control interface, machine settings, etc.

Principles and levels of configuration

(to do)

Printing with PLA

I tried to print with translucid PLA and so far I didn't manage.

What I think so far:

• Don't print a raft
• Remove the filament, then when the extruder goes up for heating insert it with RPM = very fast. If you leave the filament inside it will clog the nozzle, i.e. expand in the square and then can't be pushed down anymore

Expert settings

• Lower speed by half (snake = 10, ultra = 60)
• Double all the width in the same way

Links

• Engine for RepRap. This is the menu page.

• Netfabb Engine for RepRap Machine Settings, explains basic settings and the interface with 3D printers.

• Calibration of Engine for RepRap. Calibration allows to detect what your machine can do, an alternative to thinking and trying out.

• Material Settings for netfabb Engine for RepRap. Actually more than Material settings. Explains how to configure basic parameters (temp, speed, layer size etc. for a material profile(

• Build Styles for netfabb Engine for RepRap. Most important reading, since it explains how one can configure Netfabb to deal with different sorts of parts.