Printing Multiple ABS Parts

multiple ABS parts printed "all at once"

Summary: Print ABS parts one at a time, not "all at once".

Lately I have been printing a lot in ABS to make some custom parts for my multirotor helicopter. When I need to print several copies of the same part, I have been using the "print all at once" option just as I did with PLA. With PLA, this setting allows time for each layer to cool and generally gives higher quality prints.

layer separation

However with ABS, I noticed some layer separation in my prints with printing with the "print all at once" setting. There were obvious gaps in some of the layers. With just a little pressure, the layers pulled apart very easily.

layers pulled apart

I think this is due to the fact that ABS shrinks some as it cools. Print continuously and the previous layer is still hot while the next layer is printed. But given extra time to cool, the previous layer shrinks before the next layer is printed and you end up with the layers not touching.

Luckily, print quality has not been an issue; it seems easier to get good prints with ABS. So the print all at once option does not seem to be necessary. I have been printing my ABS parts one at a time and the quality and strength are perfect.

Printing Multiple Files at Once

5 files printed at same time

Summary: Print multiple files at once for ease and better quality.

I have always wanted to get an old Spirograph set for my kids. But then I discovered this 41 piece Spirograph set on Thingiverse. Why buy when you can print? Looks like a nice Christmas present I can make for the kids. There are a lot of parts to this set, so I decided to print several gears at once. Printing multiple parts at once is not only easier, it can also result in nicer prints because each layer has plenty of time to cool before the next layer is printed.

To print multiple parts you just keep loading model files. Cura will automatically space the parts out for you. Select the "print all at once" option under the tools tab to for better print quality. Otherwise you will just be printing one model at a time and you won't get the benefit of letting each layer cool. Then just save the file to the SD card and print as you normally would.

I printed these at 220°C with the normal quality defaults and they came out great. The teeth mesh perfectly. The one downside to printing multiple parts is you can get stringing between the parts. There was no stringing on this print. I'm going to wait until I have some more colors of PLA before I finish the set to make it a little more colorful. Six parts of the Spirograph done, 35 more to go!