FAQs
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Working With 3D Printed Parts:
Today, there are many different technologies and processes that are collectively referred to as "3D printing". After much testing and evaluation of the various technologies we have carefully chosen materials, printers, and post-processing techniques that produce parts with physical properties that will be familiar to modelers used to working with cast resin and injection molded parts. Our 3D printed parts are made of many layers of UV cured resin and have similar hardness and strength to cast resin. They are typically much lighter in weight and are more flexible than cast resin parts. There are also some other important differences that you should also be aware of. |
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Layering:
All parts are 3D printed in discrete layers that can be up to 32 microns thick. While we make every effort to minimize the visibility of the layering, you may see small step-marks on the part, particularly on large, smooth, curved surfaces. We recommend that you first prime the part with a high-quality primer. When the primer is dry, wet-sand to even the surfaces. Usually just a few minutes with a wet-dry sandpaper (from 320 to 600 grit) is all that is required. On smaller, more detailed parts any visible layering pattern can usually be eliminated with a few coats of a high-quality spray primer. |
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Support Material:
The printing technology that we use makes use of a wax-based support material during the printing process. You will notice a slightly rougher surface texture where the wax support has been in contact with the resin part material. This is normal. During printing we orient the parts to minimize the amount of surface that is in contact with support material (with careful attention paid to keeping critical, hard to sand surfaces free from contact with support material) but some rough surfaces are inevitable. This texture is mild and just a quick bit of wet sanding will smooth the surface. |
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Solvents:
3D printed parts respond well to the paints & enamels used by scale modelers. They may not, however, respond well to other solvents. Do not soak parts in degreaser or enamel thinner (as you might be used to doing for cast resin parts). It will damage the parts. Our parts undergo a multi-step finishing process so there should not be any residue that must be removed prior to painting. In the event that you find support material (parts appear yellowed), agitate the part in acetone to remove it. Limit submersion in acetone to 30 seconds or less. Extended contact will soften and distort the resin. |
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Assembly:
You can assemble parts using cyanoacrylate glue (superglue or equivalent) or two-part epoxy. Styrene cement and water-based glues will not work. |
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Clear Parts:
Our clear parts are made using a stereolithography process that uses a laser to cure liquid resin. Enhanced part clarity can be achieved by wet-sanding the smooth surfaces (usually the inside surface of canopies and windshields) with fine polishing cloth. We recommend the Micro-Mesh Finishing Kit with polishing cloths ranging from 2400 grit to 12000 grit. Additionally, you may find that a dip in Pledge Future Floor Polish can further enhance the look of the piece. *** Shapeways does not currently offer a transparent material. Please email them and post on the forums to encourage them to add this capability*** |
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Warped Parts:
3D printed parts can sometimes warp just like cast resin and injection molded plastic. To straighten a warped part, submerge in hot water and bend back to position. |
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Decals:
Download and print your own decals from our Decal files page |
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Instructions:
Download instruction sheets from our Instructions page |