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Free slicer for 3d printer


Open source 3D printing toolbox

What is Slic3r?

Features

Compatible with your printer too. RepRap (Prusa Mendel, MendelMax, Huxley, Tantillus...), Ultimaker, Makerbot, Lulzbot AO-100, TAZ, MakerGear M2, Rostock, Mach4, Bukobot and lots more. And even DLP printers.

Fast G-code generation is fast. Don't wait hours for slicing that detailed model. Slic3r is about 100x faster than Skeinforge. It also uses multithreading for parallel computation.

Lots of input/output formats. Slic3r reads STL, AMF and OBJ files while it can output G-code and SVG files.

Do you like the graphical interface or command line? All the features of the user-friendly interface are also available from command line. This allows to integrate Slic3r in your custom toolchain and batch operations as you like.

Open source, open development. Slic3r is open source software, licenced under the AGPLv3 license. The development is centered on GitHub and the #slic3r IRC channel on FreeNode, where the community is highly involved in testing and providing ideas and feedback.

Dependencies? Nah. Slic3r is super-easy to run: download, double click and enjoy. No dependencies needed. Hassle-free. For MacOS X, Windows, Linux.

Print with dual multiple extruders. Print beautiful colored objects, or use your secondary extruder to build support material. Or put a larger nozzle on it and print a faster infill.

Use brim for the best adhesion. This unique feature improves built plate adhesion by generating a base flange around your objects that you can easily remove after printing.

Microlayering: save time, increase accuracy. You can choose to print a thicker infill to benefit from low layer heights on perimeters and still keep your print time within a reasonable amount.

Compose a plate but print one object at time. Use the built-in plating interface that allows to place objects with drag-and-drop, rotate and scale them, arrange everything as you like. The sequential printing feature allows to print one complete object at time in a single print job.

Cool cooling strategies. A very smart cooling logic will regulate your fan speed and print speed to ensure each layer has enough time to cool down before next one is laid on it.

Manage multiple printers, filaments and build styles. The configuration handling system was designed for people working with multiple machines and filaments: you can save configurations as presets for each category avoiding to multiply your saved configurations.

Enjoy support material. Automatic generation of support material for overhangs.

Gallery

Links


The RepRap Project

Slic3r - 1.

3.0

A new version, finally! Despite the long time since the last versioned release, work on Slic3r has never stopped. Daily automated builds are available on this website, so this release is not entirely new for all people who have been following development.

This release was curated by Joseph Lenox (Lordofhyphens).

Please join the discussion on GitHub and report issues and ideas.

New features:
  • Controller: print via USB directly from Slic3r! Spool your prints in a queue and print to multiple printers at the same time.
  • 3MF format read/write (#4046)
  • Experimental support for SLA/DLP machines (USB/video output)
  • Bonjour detection of Octoprint instances
  • Custom G-code now can have some logic and math, see the manual (#3390)
  • Solarized color scheme now available. (#4322)
  • Support for long retracts (Marlin/Repetier)
  • New infill patterns: gyroid, cubic, stars Infill pattern (#3666)
  • Adaptive Slicing (let Slic3r vary the layer thickness according to the slopes in the model) (#1386)
  • You can now nudge/move models with the keyboard arrows in the 2D plater. (#4102)
  • Generic modifier meshes – the powerful and well-known modifier meshes, already available in Slic3r, can be now created and positioned directly from the visual interface of Slic3r without the need for an external CAD program! (#3590)
  • Option to force M190/M109 for extruder and bed heater
  • You can turn off automatic centering and alignment in Z.
  • Optimistic time estimation for prints. (#3747)
  • Slic3r will now tell you cost of material used after exporting Gcode (°3669)
  • Linux AppImage and tarball builds.
  • Undo/Redo for rotate, mirror, split, cut (#3265)
  • Custom G-code can now be entered for between objects in sequential object mode.
  • Reprapfirmware/Duet print server support (#4028)
  • Custom G-code can be set for filament profiles. Its start G-code is placed after printer start G-code and its end G-code is placed before printer end G-code. 3/s is now output in gcode.
  • “Move to bed center” option in object menu.
  • Experimental option z_steps_per_mm to have slic3r auto-align layer height to integer Z steps. (#1827)
  • Top and bottom fill pattern can now be specified separately.
  • Brim can now be specified for inside holes.
  • Seams can now be specified in “rear” position.
  • Detect thin walls can produce variable-thickness perimeters now in some situations.
  • Brim connections
  • Bed temperature can now be specified at 0.
  • New option to tell Slic3r if your printer has a heatbed (and whether or not to bother putting bed heat gcode in).
  • Smoothieware G-code flavor (primarily affects retraction) (#3373)
  • You can now specify some overrides for Printer settings from Filament. (#3770)
  • The pattern angle for rafts is now configurable.
  • Doxygen-generated documentation for libslic3r.
  • Print and filament profiles can be marked as compatible with specific printer profiles. (#3770)
Improvements
  • New build/packaging system for Windows
  • New build/packaging system for OSX
  • Configuration options shortcuts are available in the main plater (#3912)
  • More code was ported to C++, including infill, bridge detection, cooling, GCodeReader and SpiralVase
  • Antialiasing for the plater. (#3343)
  • Switching to the 3D Preview now starts a slice if background processing is off.
  • Gap fill is much, much smarter now.
  • Rectilinear fill has been improved.
  • External perimeters are not slowed down even more if possible.
  • Lots of things are done in parallel in libslic3r.
  • Speed improvements in some cases.
  • If auto-arrange fails, ignore bed shape.
  • Speed settings now default to “auto” instead of “0” (same behavior, but more clear)
  • small_perimeter_speed is now ignored for overhangs.
  • Slic3r warns you when objects are outside of the print bed area.
  • UI: You can zoom without the mousewheel now. (#3233)
  • MotionPlanner should be much smarter now.
  • Mac Retina displays are now supported. (#2888)
  • Numerous C++11 related code cleanup.
  • Bridge detection is improved
Changes
  • Simple/Expert Mode is no more, we are all experts now.
Bugfix
  • External perimeters are now chosen to be 1.1*(nozzle width) when using auto.
  • 3D Honeycomb Infill switches
  • Brims are now nudged slightly closer to models.
  • DLP SVG export works now. (#4311)
  • Setting acceleration for reprapfirmware works now.
  • STL imports in big-endian architectures works now. (#4143)
  • Several crash bugs have been fixed, especially around custom gcode handling.
  • Bridging should be improved when there are narrow gaps under bridge anchors.
  • Scaling objects with multiple copies in the plater should now be consistent.
  • Fixes to background processing.
  • flowrate.pl now handles negative coordinates.
  • Windows build shouldn’t hang forever on a C++ Exception
  • Fewer copies are made when multi-object AMF files are converted to a multi-part onject
  • solid_infill_below_area is ignored when fill_density is 100%
  • Title labels for the layer height editor aren’t cut off.
  • Correct extruder order should be used now if more than 10 extruders are used. (#3235)
  • If there is a raft, print brims using the support material extruder.
  • Auto width now does not assume your hotend can produce infinitely wide traces.
  • Mousewheel zoom is now consistent.
  • Diagonal gaps (due to slopes) should now properly place extra perimeters.
  • Trimmed down the axis lengths on the plater.
  • Temperature standby works now on Makerbot/Sailfish firmware
  • Nonexistant config options should not cause Slic3r to crash (instead it just ignores them)
  • Variable-width perimeters can’t cause negative extrusion.
  • Combined infill (infill-every-n-layers) now correctly draws thicker infill than perimeters.

Read Article - Top Best Free 3D Printing Slicer Software in 2022

Below is a list of the best free 3D slicers in 2022 - software for converting 3D models into layers for 3D printing.

Cura

Cura is an open source slicing software created by Ultimaker for their 3D printers, but can also be considered a common standard as it is compatible with most other 3D printers. Its functionality can be easily extended with a large number of convenient plugins. Since this is one of the most popular and widely used 3D printer slicers on the market, there's a good chance that a profile for your 3D printer is already available in the software, allowing you to get started right away. If this is not the case, you can download and import a third party profile. nine0003

This 3D printing software is very easy to use and allows you to manage the most important 3D printing settings in a clear interface. Start with "Basic" mode for a quick start, where you can only reconfigure the most basic printer settings. If you need finer control over your print settings, switch to Advanced, Expert, or All for more settings. In these modes, Cura provides users with up to 400 customization options to suit your needs and get the best results. nine0003

This slicer is constantly updated and improved, new versions are constantly released, so you can be sure that you get the latest program. Recently, the new version of Cura 5.1 introduced settings for FDM metal printing.

You can also use Cura as a 3D printer remote control software, but the 3D printer must be connected to the PC during printing. Integration with CAD systems such as SolidWorks and Siemens NX makes the software valuable even in professional applications. But for the vast majority of home users, Cura is a simple and affordable 3D printing slicer. nine0003

In addition to ease of use, you can also find many educational resources on how to best use Cura's latest features, as well as a community forum on the Ultimaker website.

Cure download link.

Prusa Slicer

Prusa Research, the company behind the original Prusa 3D printers, has developed its own slicer, PrusaSlicer, based on Slic3r, an open source slicer. PrusaSlicer has gained a lot of popularity very quickly for a number of reasons: not only does it have a large list of Slic3r's adjustable settings, but it also has some handy features that the original software didn't have. nine0003

With a redesigned interface, built-in support for Prusa's own range of printers, and user-friendly settings for a range of common media, there are many improvements over the original software. Key features include customizable supports, support printing with different materials, and flexible layer height settings.

PrusaSlicer can be used to cut models for both FDM printers and photopolymer 3D printers. It has various modes allowing you to edit the settings depending on your experience, and the Expert mode opens up a huge list of customization possibilities. However, even simple profiles can work well in PrusaSlicer. There are fewer printer presets than some other popular slicers, but it's just as easy to set up or import custom settings. nine0003

Based on Slic3r, PrusaSlicer supports most of the original features and even accepts Slic3r configuration packages when importing profiles.

Link to download Prusa Slicer.

ideaMaker

Raise3D ideaMaker slicing software is optimized for the company's 3D printers, similar to how PrusaSlicer is optimized for original Prusa printers and Ultimaker Cura for Ultimaker hardware, but like other software, it also works well with third-party 3D printers. nine0003

The workflow and user interface is a bit more complex than Cura and PrusaSlicer, but it's worth a little digging and you'll have quick access to advanced per-layer settings and print modifiers, including the ability to texture models or brand your parts.

By connecting to Raise3D cloud services, you can download hundreds of community and Raise3D-created printer and media profiles for faster and better printing, or create your own library of settings and profiles. nine0003

Customizable supports, model splicing and mesh correction tools are all provided by ideaMaker, which allows you to get consistent print results every time. Print sequencing and built-in compatibility with OctoPrint are also additional features that improve print quality.

You can also switch between dark and light ideaMaker interface themes for a more comfortable slicer experience.

Download link for ideaMaker. nine0003

CHITUBOX Basic


Chances are if you're using a budget desktop 3D resin printer, it comes with CHITUBOX (now known as CHITUBOX Basic). The software is developed by CTB Systems, which also makes many of the motherboards and firmware for these printers (hence the company's default software is software that goes great with anything). nine0003

The main purpose of CHITUBOX Basic is cutting 3D models for printing on photopolymer 3D printers. With CHITUBOX Basic you get full control over printer settings as well as a large list of common and popular printer profiles and resins.

The most important element of preparation for photopolymer 3D printing is the orientation of the model and the setting of supports. Orientation is not the easiest - it does not have an automatic mode, but the generation of automatic support is quite reliable and in many cases gives good results. More fine-tuning may be required to properly support parts, but the support customization options are simple and intuitive. nine0003

Link to download CHITUBOX Basic.

Lychee Slicer


With a wide variety of 3D printer profiles and resins, the Lychee Slicer is an attractive third-party option for your model slicing needs. This, and being one of the most user-friendly and easy-to-use slicers, makes the Lychee Slicer an excellent multifunctional solution for desktop resin printers. nine0003

Automatic model orientation will help you get started preparing for 3D printing, but you can skip it and just hit the Magic button and let Lychee Slicer take care of everything. The results can sometimes be unpredictable, but when working with simple models, you will save time this way.

Some options are not available in the free version of Lychee Slicer, but this is not a problem. The free version is fully functional and has rich functionality.

Link to download Lychee Slicer.

Kiri:Moto


Written entirely to run in the browser, Kiri:Moto is a powerful tool that can be used to prepare models for 3D printing, laser engraving or CNC milling (the common factor here is that they are all exported via G-code) . The settings are simpler than locally installed slicers, but they provide most of what you would normally need, including z-axis retract settings. nine0003

There is complete freedom to add printers using a few simple parameters such as build area, G-code type, and number of extruders. In addition, there are necessary options for customizing and exporting G-code files.

Link to Kiri:Moto.

IceSL

IceSL is an amazing 3D printing software. This is not just a slicer, but also a 3D modeling tool. In the left window, you can edit your model directly using scripts in a language based on Lua. nine0003

On the right you will find a wide range of slicing settings. Beginner-friendly presets make cutting a model quick and easy. But once you open the advanced settings, you get a lot of cool features that the IceSL team has been developing over the years.

Most notable from the latest release are the progressive settings, which allow you to specify different print settings for different layers, with IceSL making incremental changes on its own. This means smooth transitions from high to low fill and from low to high, among other things. nine0003

Link to download IceSL.

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Top Free 3D Printing Software in 2021

How to prepare a 3D model for printing or learn how to create models from scratch? What software is best for beginners? All these questions can be answered in our article. The applications presented in the review are completely free or have free versions for students, teachers and open source projects. nine0003

Why did we put this section before all the others? The answer is very simple. By knowing the whole 3D printing process, you can better understand how each software is involved in the preparation and printing of 3D parts.

If you have become a happy owner of a 3D printer, but have absolutely no idea what to do with it and how to get started, then this part of the article is for you.

Different programs are used to print 3D models:

  • 3D modeling/design/CAD software; nine0117
  • Software for editing, viewing and restoring STL files;
  • Slicing software;
  • 3D printer host.

Before you start working, you need to create a 3D model. To do this, you can use different programs for modeling. We wrote in detail about free versions of software for 3D modeling here.

A small life hack for beginners. If you are not ready to create a model on your own, you can choose and download the right one from the marketplaces. There are also free download links in the maker communities - sometimes the proposed 3D models can be not only interesting, but also useful. nine0003

Once a 3D model has been created, it must be converted to a printable format. For desktop 3D printers, this is the STL format. Some created or downloaded files have defects that lead to failures during printing. It is for editing STL files that there is special software that helps prepare the model for playback on the printer.

The slicer program helps to convert the STL file into a printer-friendly G-code. The functionality of such programs allows you to split a 3D model into thousands of flat 2D layers, which will be sequentially reproduced on a printer. nine0003

Finally, the 3D printer host provides communication between the computer and the printer. It allows you to receive information for printing, as well as change the parameters of the device in real time via a PC. Often the Slicer and host are combined into one 3D printing software that is supplied by the printer manufacturer.

Dear readers of the 3DToday portal, we want to inform you that a new section "Knowledge Base" has been opened on our LIDER-3D online store website. In this section, we share owls, experience, settings and secrets of the world of additive technologies, go to the section at this link. nine0003

Examples of some already posted articles in the Knowledge Base section: Post-processing of models after 3D printing, 10 calibration models for your 3D printer, How and what 3D printers print, Printing with HIPS plastic, ABS printing settings, Recommendations for Resin Post-Processing HARZ Labs, Best Free 3D Modeling Software for Beginners.

Cura

One of the popular slicer software that comes with all Ultimaker printers. However, its functionality is suitable for use in conjunction with other 3D printers. Since this software is one of the most popular among makers, you can not waste time on profile settings - for most printers they can be found in the program itself. nine0003

The software is designed to change important print settings. Start with the “Recommended” mode to select improved quality settings for your printer and easily adapt to the program.

More precise control of all parameters is possible in the “Custom” user mode. By switching to this mode, you can manage more than 400 different settings.

Cura is not only a simple and intuitive slicer for home users. The software can be used as the main software for your printer, as well as integrated with CAD systems such as SolidWorks or Siemens NX. nine0003

The program is constantly updated and supplemented, which allows you to make 3D printing on your printer better.

►►►Link to office. site Cura

PrusaSlicer

This software is based on Slic3r and, unlike the prototype, has gained great popularity among users. The main difference is a large list of customizable parameters and additional features that make the work more convenient.

An easy-to-use user interface, built-in support for Prusa printers, and multi-plastic settings make it easy to get started with your 3D printer. The slicer also allows you to place additional supports, work with different materials and use smooth features with variable layer height. nine0003

The PrusaSlicer can be used with both FDM and resin printers. Settings panels for users with different experience in 3D printing help to significantly improve the quality of finished models.

A great bonus for those who have worked with Slic3r before - PrusaSlicer supports most of the original features and accepts Slic3r configuration packages when importing profiles.

►►►Link to office. website PrusaSlicer

MatterControl 2.0

MatterControl is a CAD modeling software, slicer and simultaneous host for a 3D printer. With host functions, you can directly control printing by connecting the printer via USB. The program also allows you to cut STL files for export to an SD card for offline printing and, of course, create projects in a separate section of the CAD software.

Structured interface makes it easy to create models and prepare them for printing. A file browser and a library of geometric primitives make it easy to import data into print. Geometric figures can be used as supports, which helps to achieve high quality printing of complex details. nine0003

Advanced print settings and a user-friendly viewer make this software one of the best for comprehensive control of the 3D printing process. In addition to the host and slicer functions, MatterControl has design tools that allow you to design parts. The resulting 3D models are easy to export to a slicer and print. Thus, the program allows you to control the entire process - from creating a model to cutting it and sending it to print.

►►►Link to office. PrusaSlicer 9 website0003

3DPinterOS

3DPrinterOS is a cloud-based program for managing a 3D printer. It combines the functions of a slicer, a host, and an STL file editor. The program can create a print queue, manage the printer and plug-in system based on STL data analysis and recovery applications, and perform cloud slicing.

The free Starter package allows users to download G-codes and send them to print, remotely control the printing process, and get support on a like-minded forum. For a modest fee, you can access additional features, including the ability to collaborate on a project. nine0003

In fact, this program is a universal tool for converting print files to STL format. That is why 3DPrinterOS is suitable for small businesses, education, production and design.

►►►Link to office. website 3DPinterOS

KISSlicer

The abbreviation of this application “Keep It Simple Slicer” can confuse inexperienced users. It's actually quite a complex 3D printing tool. Conflicting user reviews, however, allow us to conclude that the program is popular and has sufficient functionality to work with 3D printers. nine0003

The free version of the program is suitable for most users who work with printers with a single extruder. KISSlicer helps simplify certain aspects of slicing with Profile Wizards for printer-specific settings and Tuning Wizards for optimizing materials. The paid version of the program allows you to work with printers with 2 extruders.

Although the application settings are quite complex, it's worth the effort - the slicer allows you to have full control over the entire printing process. nine0003

►►►Link to office. KISSlicer website

Slic3r

This software is for open source slicers. Its main difference is advanced features that are not found in any other application.

Despite the fact that Slic3r releases almost no updates to its program, it is the base for many other open source software. For example, many programs use 3D honeycomb cavity filling, which is a special merit of the Slic3r developers. nine0003

In 2018, a new version of the software was released with new integrated functions. So, this version has new fill patterns, experimental support for SLA and DLP printers, 3MF format, and USB printing.

On the software website you can find a detailed manual that gives an idea of ​​all the functions of Slic3r. A great bonus of the program is the direct integration with OctoPrint for printing at the touch of a button.

►►►Link to office. site Slic3r

SliceCrafter

Browser-based slicer from IceSL developers. Using the program, you can quickly load STL files, cut them, and then prepare the G-code for printing. In the browser program, you can use almost all the options that IceSL offers.

Although many users find this version less powerful, it is suitable for beginners who do not want to set up more complex 3D printing programs.

►►►Link to office. site SliceCrafter

IceSL

IceSL is an excellent tool for 3D modeling and printing. Several working windows allow you to edit the model directly through a Lua script, select different settings for slicing the model, and view the result in real time. Despite the apparent complexity of working with the software, IceSL allows for elegant parametric modeling.

Slicer settings menu allows beginners to quickly and easily prepare a 3D model for printing. In the latest version of the program, it became possible to specify different values ​​for print settings at a certain layer height. All this allows you to make smooth transitions from dense to light filling and gradation of the thickness of the layers from fine to coarse. nine0003

►►►Link to office. site IceSL

OctoPrint

This program is a host for 3D printers that allows you to control printing and change settings. The software also allows you to remotely control the printer using a Wi-Fi module connected to the device.

OctoPrint accepts G-code from almost any slicer, while the host allows you to visualize the received files before and during printing. In addition, cutting files can be done directly in the program, using it as a slicer. nine0003

OctoPrint offers not only a wide range of tools for remote print management, but also several ways to keep track of your tasks. You can set up push notifications or send alerts through different messengers.

The software is open source and has an active user community that offers many plug-ins to extend the program's functionality. On the community page, you can find many add-ons that will be useful when printing. nine0003

►►►Link to office. site OctoPrint

Repetier-Host

Rep-Rap developers favorite host - Repetier is a high performance print management and file preparation software.

Repetier-Host is positioned as a universal software that helps manage printers with a large number of extruders (up to 16 extruders), and also supports almost any 3D printer on the market.

The program has remote access functions through the Repetier Server, which allows you to control your printer through a browser on a PC, tablet or smartphone. nine0003

►►►Link to office. Website Repetier-Host

AstroPrint

Like 3DPrinterOS, this program is a cloud-based solution for controlling and managing your 3D printers. Also, using AstroPrint, you can change slicer settings, manage printer and material profiles. A free account allows you to save print information and access all settings through a browser or the AstroPrint mobile app.

This software is unique in that it is compatible with Thingiverse and MyMiniFactory as well as free versions of CAD software such as 3D Slash and Leopoly. The application also has tools for cutting 3D models with the ability to send files for printing from a smartphone. nine0003

The software will be useful for those who work in large scale networks such as 3D farms, enterprises and universities.

►►►Link to office. website AstroPrint

3D-Tool Free Viewer

3D-Tool Free Viewer is designed to check the structural integrity of STL files and the ability to print a document on your printer. Additional functions, such as "Cross Section" also allow you to look inside the 3D model and evaluate some parameters.

This program can be useful if you want to check your STL file for errors. The user-friendly interface of the software allows you to measure the size, surface area and volume of all parts of the figure, as well as change the distance, angles and radius at the touch of a button. nine0003

For those who do not have sufficient knowledge and experience in CAD, the program offers a quick way to check the STL file and prepare it for 3D printing.

►►►Link to office. website 3D-Tool Free Viewer

MakePrintable

This useful web service allows you to check STL files for errors and fix critical values ​​that may affect printing. Unlike other free programs, MakePrintable gives you complete control over the process. You can choose the level of print quality, make the mesh hollow, fix the polygon count, and even merge multiple targets into one. nine0003

Although the program no longer offers a free version with limited functionality, users may find several ways to use the program. The program has different payment options - for a single file download (about $ 2 per file) or a "Maker" package with the ability to upload up to 30 files per month (monthly price about $ 15).

The advantage of the program is the compatibility of plug-ins with Blender and SketchUp.

►►►Link to office. MakePrintable 9 website0003

Meshmixer

Meshmixer is a super modern and free software from the Autodesk 3D printing family for viewing, checking, editing and repairing STL files. This program helps you identify potential problems and fix them automatically. For example, the program identifies insufficient wall thickness.

The program is positioned as a universal tool for 3D meshes, offering many tools for working with mesh, 3D modeling, surface embossing and others. nine0003

Whether you're trying to fix an STL file, prepare a model for printing, or construct multiple objects, Meshmixer is ideal for all of these purposes.

►►►Link to office. website Meshmixer

MeshLab

MeshLab is an open source application that allows you to edit STL files and also has tools for working with 3D triangular meshes. The software's capabilities help you check, render, repair, and transform meshes, and even solidify models and close holes. nine0003

The application is great for editing 3D models created in CAD. Despite the fact that the latest version was released in 2016, the program is still popular with makers.

►►►Link to office. website MeshLab

NetFabb

NetFabb is a slicing software that includes advanced analysis and recovery of STL files. One of the most powerful tools, NetFabb aims to streamline the user experience by offering support creation, mesh repair, and a wide range of generative design tools. nine0003

The program is free for students, as part of an Autodesk subscription. The 3-year student license allows you to choose one of the following versions:

  • NetFabb Standard allows you to quickly prepare a model for printing;
  • NetFabb Premium with advanced options for creating grids, supports and automatic packaging of parts;
  • NetFabb Ultimate allows you to calculate assembly failures, provides modeling tools, customizable toolpath strategies, and helps automate the process of preparing a model for 3D printing; nine0117
  • NetFabb Simulation helps you simulate certain metal printing technologies prior to production.

►►►Link to office. NetFabb site

About programs for 3D modeling, which even a beginner will understand, we wrote in this article. Here are equally useful, easy-to-use, and most importantly, free programs for three-dimensional modeling and 3D printing.

3D Builder

The 3D Builder application offers its users the ability to quickly visualize and edit 3D models. The software helps to create and import files in 3D printing formats. Using simple editing tools, even entry-level users can create 3D images. nine0003

The application has its own extensive library of 3D models. You can also upload an external file or use the Kinect V2 sensor to scan and import a new 3D image. By joining the 3D Builder community and downloading the 3D Printing SDK, you can expand the capabilities of this free program.

►►►Link to office. website 3D Builder

Figuro

This browser-based modeling software combines the accessibility of TinkerCAD with the power of more advanced 3D modeling tools. The program is suitable for those who want to improve their design skills without going too deep into details. nine0003

The creation of objects in Figuro is based on the principle of polygonal modeling - you generate polygons by modifying them and combining them with each other. If you are using the program for the first time, we recommend using additional tools for checking and repairing STL files.

The program has a simple and pleasant user interface. An extensive gallery allows you to evaluate the capabilities of the software and get inspiration for creating new objects.

►►►Link to office. Figuro 9 website0003

Fusion 360

Fusion 360 is a professional 3D modeling CAD program. Unlike other software, the software allows you to cover the entire process of planning, testing and 3D design.

The program has powerful tools for solving industrial design problems. Fusion 360 allows you to simulate the design of objects under design as well as the loads that they will face after commissioning.

Design collaboration, cloud file sharing, and import/export of various CAD file types make the application a pleasure to use. nine0003

Fusion 360 is free for students, startups and hobbyists. At the same time, amateur projects must not be commercial, startup income must not exceed $ 100,000 per year, and the student license of the program is limited to three years.

►►►Link to office. site Fusion 360

FreeCAD

Multifunctional CAD software is great for developing design skills. Parametric modeling software creates models according to the given parameters. The big advantage is the ability to drag and control objects directly with the mouse. nine0003

A feature of this program is the ability to return to the history of the creation of an object and edit its parameters. Despite the fact that the software is free, it has all the necessary tools for full-fledged work.

FreeCAD allows users to draw 2D shapes as a basis for creating additional objects. The program is suitable for product design, mechanical engineering, architecture and other areas.

►►►Link to office. website FreeCAD

OpenSCAD

Unlike other presented programs, OpenSCAD focuses more on the CAD aspect of 3D modeling. The software works as a 3D camillator that reads a script file describing a 3D model and then converts the object into a 3D model.

The open source program is constantly updated with new features. For example, the latest update has a new Customiser panel. Get support and advice on using the application and working with updates in the user community. nine0003

The software does not have interactive components, but it helps to better control the modeling process and control the design parameters settings. OpenSCAD is considered to be the ideal tool for students.

►►►Link to office. OpenSCAD website

Blender

A popular CAD program with a steep learning curve. This software is not the best choice for a beginner, but is ideal for those who are familiar with 3D modeling concepts and want to create more complex models.

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