How the 3D Magnetic Printing Process Works
To have a better understanding of how the 3D magnetic printing process is going to work, it’s important to understand it from a simpler perspective. According to Kai von Petersdorff-Campen, a doctoral student at the Zurich University of Applied Sciences, “The “Embedded magnet printing” process would consist of mixing a magnetic powder with the plastic to form a 3D printing filament.”
Mixing the right components will guarantee that the magnets come out in a sturdy and clean condition. However, there are many more steps that need to be taken to ensure that the magnets will come out just right.
Steps to Take to Make Your 3D Prints Magnetic
Now it’s time to start making your 3D prints magnetic. Even though the process can be time consuming and tedious, following these steps will guarantee your project will come out a success.
Here is a list of the materials that you will need to get your project started:
- Magnets
- Calipers
- Access to CAD Software
- Access to an FDM 3D Printer
Now that you know what you will need, it is time to look at the steps you need to take to make your 3D prints magnetic.
Purchase Your Magnets
The first step is to grab your magnets. The recommended kind of magnet to use for this particular project are neodymium magnets. The versatility and strength that these magnets have will make it easier for your prints to come out better.
Measure Your Magnets
The next step to take is measuring your magnets. Use the calipers to get the precise dimension of the magnets. Stack the magnets between two or three high. This will increase the engagement and magnetic strength of the project.
Start Creating Negative Space in the CAD Model
Next, you’ll want to create a negative space in the CAD Model by 0.015” dimensions and make it 0.015” deep.
You don’t have to use a particular amount of magnets, but to have a better measurement, it is recommended to experiment with a stack of paper that is 0.015” deep to test the magnetic strength if you are not sure.
Get Started on the 3D print
Start printing out your 3D print. It's important to keep an eye on it while working, especially if this is your first time doing this project.
Make sure to pause the printer before it starts to cover up the magnet recesses that were made.
Insert Your Magnets
The next step is to pause the printer. Once this is done, put the magnets into the recesses.
Restart the Printer
Make sure the magnets are securely in place. Once this is complete, restart the printer. There’s a possibility that the magnets can come out of place, so it’s important to keep a close watch on them.
For an additional tip, it’s recommended that you do a test to see if the extruder has any magnetic properties with a brass nozzle.
Your Project is Complete!
Once everything is finished printing, your project will be complete! Take a moment to enjoy the hard work that you put into your project!
You don’t have to be the most crafty, creative person out there to invest in projects like this. By following along with the instructions and with the right material, the prints will come out to be just fine.
What Makes 3D Printing So Special?
3D printing is one of the best ways to present a project of any kind, especially in today’s world with the advancement of technology. Along with displaying an efficient project, there are many benefits that come along with 3D printing.
According to Beamler, “Its main advantage lies in a continuous expansion in the range of metals, alloys and metallic composites which can be produced in this technology." Beamler also stated that 3D printing materials accredit manufacturers to create any mechanical and chemical properties.
However, this is just the start of how 3D printing can help evolve the creativity and originality of 3D printing projects. To help fully comprehend the many ways that 3D printing is beneficial, here is a list of all of the advantages of 3D printing.
The 3D Printing Process is Quicker
Juxtapose to many other printer models, 3D printing is quicker in speed thanks to rapid prototyping. Rapid prototyping allows the printer to design, manufacture, and test a part that’s customized in a short amount of time.
A bonus to this is that 3D printing allows the designs to be changed without disrupting the process. This would be very beneficial for magnetic prints down the long run to ensure a sturdy, fantastic finish.
3D Printing is Cost-Effective
In terms of budgeting, 3D printing is excellent for all printing projects. Only one or two machines are needed to produce the parts, simplifying the project even further.
This is a factor that should be considered when beginning your project for your magnetic prints.
It Provides Flexibility
The versatility that comes with 3D printing allows it to create pretty much anything, which means that you won't have any trouble with making your magnetic prints. Its flexibility will enable you to create several designs however you like them to be. This factor is great for those who don't have that much experience with CAD models.
It Comes with A Competitive Advantage
Thanks to the speed and lower costs of 3D printing, it causes a reduction in product life cycles. While doing your magnetic print project, this will allow you to create better magnets in a short amount of time. This is a benefit that will help those with this tedious task, especially if you’re new with working with 3D printing projects.
According to Maker Bot, “It also allows for cost-effective market testing, obtaining feedback from potential customers and investors on a tangible product, without the risk of large upfront expenditures for prototyping.”
In this particular case, everyone wins with a competitive advantage.
Efficient Product Testing and Solid Designing
With most printing projects, you’re only able to see what is to come of the project that you are working on. This obviously would not work if you’re trying to make your 3D prints magnetic.
Another great feature of 3D printing is that you'll have something tangible to work with, thanks to a physical prototype. Looking at the prototype will allow you to examine your mistakes so that they can be corrected. You can modify the CAD to get the finish that you're looking for, so it will come outright.
They Provide Enhanced Quality
The technology of 3D gives the option of an assembly of parts or products that can guarantee an enhancement of the design to come out in a quality that is nothing less than great.
It Provides Consistency
Parts are printed in succession with 3D printing. So, imagine your project with magnetic printing, for example. Each magnet would be monitored, which can detect any errors and reduce the number of mistakes that would be made.
3D printing succeeds in remaining consistent with keeping the flaws out and providing an excellent design for a great finish.
It Reduces Risk in Manufacturing
With the features of 3D printing discussed before, such as consistency and quality, it reduces the number of risks when it comes to manufacturing. This will be a helpful feature with your magnetic printing project. With manufacturing risk being reduced, this will create fewer mistakes for all of your projects.
There’s More Accessibility
It’s easier to access pretty much every 3D printer, which is good because you won’t have to worry about where you’re going to find one for your magnetic printing project.
3D Printing Allows Sustainability
3D printing is more environmentally friendly, which helps create sustainability due to fewer parts needing outsourcing for manufacturing. It makes a lot less waste that will create an extra step in conserving the life of the environment around us.
Now knowing the perks of using 3D printing for your project, this will make it a lot easier to understand why it would be beneficial to have one for your magnetic printing project.
No Waste Equals More Saving
We've been over how 3D printing will help with your magnetic printing project, but we haven't gone in-depth about how it helps save not just in terms of finances but for the environment as well.
According to Zortax, “3D printing utilizing LPD technology, such as those by the Polish company Zortrax, doesn’t leave waste per se, only elements of the supporting material, and there’s relatively little of these.”
3D printing is excellent to keep production at a low volume, which helps make the environment even better. This is a factor to consider if you plan on doing magnetic printing projects frequently in the future. There are other beneficial factors, as well. Some of these factors include:
- Saving Money
- Saving Material
- Preserving the Environment
Bring Your Work to Market
3D printing projects can be used for more projects outside of fulfilling your hobbies or having fun. If you consider doing 3D magnetic printing projects for your job, you may want to think about how you’re going to bring your work to the market.
As stated before, using 3D printing will allow you to use less material for your work, cutting down the time that you would be working on your project.
According to All 3DP, “3D printing can help reduce overuse of this material with its ability to create efficiently-shaped and -sized magnets without the time or expense of tooling.”
Simply put, in a less amount of time, you will be able to create new designs every time with every project. So, you’ll never have to worry about working so hard with these particular projects ever!
FDM Printers to Use For This Project
As stated above, the recommended kind of printer that you should use for this particular project is an FDM printer. Using this particular printer will be more efficient that will help your project turn out to be the best in the end.
There are various brands of FDM printers, so you may not know where to start in picking the right one. Here’s a list of some of the best FDM printers to get you started on your project.
Create Your Model with the Any Cubic Mega Pro FDM 3D Printer
One of the best FDM printers you can use for your magnetic printing project is the Any Cubic Mega Pro FDM 3D Printer. This printer comes with multiple functions that suit 3D purposes with multi-color printing and smart auxiliary leveling. Other additional features include:
- Upgraded Silent Drive
- Filament Detection
- Resume Print
- Safe Power Supply
Make your magnetic printing project vivid and creative by considering this high-quality FDM printer.
Design Your Project with the Creality Ender 5 Pro Creative FDM 3D Printer
Another great FDM printer to consider buying is the Creality Ender 5 Pro Creative FDM 3D Printer. The Creality FDM printer comes with three different upgrade features. Every feature ensures fine quality printing for all of your projects so that you will receive nothing but the best for your work. These three upgrade features include:
- Silent Mainboard
- Metal Extruder Frame
- Premium PTFE Tube
The features for this printer are better for printing projects that may be a little bit more complex. Simplify your projects with a printer that'll have the best features to create a fantastic project with the Creality FDM printer.
Create Your Amazing Designs with the Creality Ender 3 3D Printer
If you’re looking for an FDM printer that’s a little bit more simple, then the Creality Ender 3 3D Printer is what you'll want to consider. The features on this printer are more straightforward for those who may not be tech-savvy, but it'll ensure that the work's quality will be just as amazing and exquisite.
It comes with upgraded extruder technology that’ll reduce plugging risk and bad extrusion with a certified power supply and a metal frame. This printer comes with a simple design to make your work a little bit easier while still producing great quality.
Make Innovative and Crafty Models with the FDM 3D Printer Kit Pyramid
The FDM 3D Printer Kit Pyramid will guarantee better quality printing. The advanced features in this printer will be great for projects that require a little bit more time and precision to create the best project.
This printer comes with a silent printing function that will allow you to concentrate on other tasks that also comes with a 3.5-inch touchscreen that’ll allow you to visually see and modify your work.
All of these FDM printers are great in their own way. You can use these handy printers for other purposes as well. These include:
- School Projects
- Working
- For Simply Having Fun
Fun Magnetic Printing Projects
When you’re not creating a 3D magnetic printing project for work, you may want to consider making other creative projects at home.
Now that you know the steps and best printers to use, it's time to try other magnetic projects. Here are a few ideas of some fun projects that would be great to do in the future.
Printing Magnetic Switches
One fun project to consider doing is printing magnetic switches. Generally, with these particular projects, you would have to start the base by making it from plywood.
However, with this project, in particular, you can simply buy the spare parts at your local home improvement store.
You will need the following tools to start this project:
- STL Files
- 1" Diameter Steel Rods
- The Base for the Magnets
With the right tools and properly following each step, you will end up with a pretty cool project that saves more money and time.
Get Inventive with a Magnetic Levitation Device
Another fun project to try out with 3D printing is building a magnetic levitation device. The purpose of this project is to create a device from a 3D printer that can levitate magnets.
The parts that are needed to build the device will be printed out first. Once that's completed, assemble the parts and add in the AA batteries in the compact that will be placed into the holder. Once that's done, turn on the switch on the back of the compact and hold the magnet up to the device.
If you've assembled the parts correctly and the magnet ends up levitating, your project is a success.
What makes this project even better that you don’t need a lot of tools or time to complete.
Following the step-by-step process will make things even easier, and you’ll experience you enjoy a fun activity!
Try Building an ATLAS Magnet
If you like working with magnets, then printing out an ATLAS magnet would be a great project to try out.
With this project, you would print out a 3D model of the ATLAS toroidal magnet. The designs for the ATLAS are already provided for printing, and it’s easily assembled.
You can make a lot of these and start a collection for them or find another project that’ll involve using this cool magnet. This project will be worth the time and effort.
Embedded Magnets
One fun fact about printing magnets is that you can embed them while they’re being printed! You can embed the magnets into the 3D model on your printer so that way the design will come out complete. All you will need are some ceramic disk magnets and some neodymium ring magnets.
Following the step-by-step tutorial will make this complex process a lot more simple, and the result of the project will be worth the work and effort.
Try Something Unique and Challenge by Printing Out Liquid Magnets!
Have some fun with your next magnetic printing project by printing out 3D liquid magnets! The concept of this project is focused on creating liquid structures that come from ferrofluids. These are solutions that are composed of iron-oxide particles. Once it’s placed within the presence of other magnets, the iron-oxide particles end up gaining strong magnetic properties.
Simply put, this would allow the magnet to act as a solid magnet with a liquid texture. This project is great for anyone who is looking for a challenge with printing magnets, and even a fun thing to do with your kids!
Printing Metallic Filaments and Magnets
If you're looking for a project that will help you get in touch with your artistic and creative side, then this next magnetic printing project is just for you. Expand your imagination and your creative ideas by printing out metallic filaments and magnets.
You can do so much more with this project. Not only can you print out basic magnetic designs, but you can shape and decorate them to be anyway that you like! Some of the potential shapes you can make include-but are not limited to:
- Stars
- Flowers
- Heart Shapes
- And more!
After printing these pieces, use them to create an artistic project, such as displaying an art project for your kids to take to school. You can also use it to show a creative way to create a presentation for work. The possibilities of what you can do for this project are endless, and it is highly recommended to give this a shot.
Create a 3D Magnetic Field
For a project that’s a little bit more simple yet crafty, try your hand at creating 3D magnetic fields. This project involves using poly magnets to create a magnetic field with a higher amount of control.
The 3D printing machine arranges maxels on a magnet while on a 2D surface that creates 3D behavior that will create a strong magnetic field. The process seems completed, but the instructions will guide you to make this basic process a complete success.
Develop and Modify Perendev Magnet Motors
Another really cool project you may want to think about trying for your next magnetic printing project is Perendev Magnet Motors. The purpose of a magnet motor is that it is meant to be a free energy device where you would put tiny pieces of magnets in them, and they spin.
This project is similar to creating a magnet levitation device, but a little bit simpler. The process takes less than ten minutes, with little to no hassle.
Building this magnet motor would be recommended for those who are looking to do a project that's simple but with a little bit of complexity to it.
Fast Morphing Smart Material
This project is for those who want to get in touch with their scientific side. Try printing out a 3D fast morphing smart material. With this project, you would embed small particles of magnetic iron in silicone rubber. This produces a substance that can be manipulated by a magnetic field and bend and contract in various ways.
The fun part comes is that you can print this to be any shape. Some of these shapes include:
- Squares
- Rectangles
- Triangles
- Something out-of-the-box like snowflakes!
This kind of project can be used in other areas, some of which include:
- The Medical Industry
- Robotics
- Engineering
The process for this project can be time-consuming and requires a lot of patience and precision. However, the right person who is dedicated will do the work to come up with an amazing project that will stand out!
Go in a Different Direction with Building 3D Magnetic Gear
One last project to think about investing your time and artistic nature is creating 3D magnetic gear. Creating the magnetic gear requires simple tools that’ll be meant to produce an entire piece of a mechanical gear.
This project is relatively simple, and the time it takes is no longer than ten minutes. The tools that you would need include:
- Ring
- Input Shaft
- Skateboard Bearings
- 8mm magnets
- Button calf fasteners
The gear can be used for many purposes and applications, including just having something fun to play around with.
This is another fun project that would be interesting and exciting to keep yourself occupied.
More 3D Magnetic Printing Projects Equals More Fun
Now that you know of the various ways that you can indulge your time in these fun and artsy projects, it’s time that you go off and get started on them on your own.
Make the most of these original and innovative 3D magnetic printing projects and add a spark of ingenious taste in your home with every amazing model you make!
