Optimize SolidWorks Model for 3D Printing: Best Practices

To optimize a SolidWorks model for 3D printing, simplify the geometry by removing unnecessary details, ensure the model is watertight (no gaps or holes), and export it as an STL file with appropriate resolution settings. Also, check for thin walls and adjust the scale to fit your printer's capabilities.

Syntax

In SolidWorks, the key steps to prepare a model for 3D printing involve using specific commands and settings:

• Check Geometry: Use Tools > Evaluate > Check to find gaps or errors.
• Make Model Solid: Use Insert > Features > Combine or Delete Face to simplify.
• Export STL: Use File > Save As and select .stl format.
• Adjust STL Options: Set resolution by choosing Binary or ASCII and adjusting deviation and angle tolerance.

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Check Geometry: Tools > Evaluate > Check
Make Model Solid: Insert > Features > Combine
Export STL: File > Save As > STL (*.stl)
STL Options: Binary/ASCII, Deviation, Angle Tolerance

Example

This example shows how to export a SolidWorks model as an optimized STL file for 3D printing:

1. Open your model in SolidWorks.
2. Go to Tools > Evaluate > Check to verify no errors.
3. Use Insert > Features > Delete Face to remove small unnecessary details.
4. Click File > Save As, select STL (*.stl) as the file type.
5. Click Options and set Resolution to Fine or customize deviation and angle tolerance for smooth surfaces.
6. Save the file and import it into your 3D printer software.

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1. Open model in SolidWorks
2. Tools > Evaluate > Check
3. Insert > Features > Delete Face (remove small details)
4. File > Save As > STL (*.stl)
5. Options: Set Resolution to Fine
6. Save and import to 3D printer software

Output

STL file saved with optimized resolution, ready for 3D printing

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when preparing SolidWorks models for 3D printing include:

• Non-watertight models: Gaps or holes cause print failures.
• Too thin walls: Walls thinner than printer capability will break or not print.
• Overly complex geometry: Small details increase print time and may not print well.
• Incorrect STL export settings: Low resolution causes rough surfaces; too high increases file size unnecessarily.

Always verify model integrity and adjust settings to balance quality and file size.

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Wrong way:
- Export STL without checking model
- Use default low resolution
Right way:
- Use Tools > Evaluate > Check
- Remove unnecessary details
- Export STL with fine resolution

Quick Reference

Summary tips for optimizing SolidWorks models for 3D printing:

• Ensure model is a solid body with no gaps.
• Remove small features that won't print well.
• Check wall thickness matches printer specs.
• Export STL with fine resolution but manageable file size.
• Use binary STL format for smaller files.

Key Takeaways

Always check and fix model geometry to be watertight before exporting.

Remove unnecessary small details to reduce print errors and time.

Set STL export resolution to balance surface quality and file size.

Verify wall thickness meets your 3D printer's minimum requirements.

Use binary STL format for efficient file size and compatibility.