Technical question - does i.materialise ever crunch/optimize meshes before printing?

#1

Hello,

I’ve noticed on a couple of casts (silver - gloss & bronze - raw) I’ve had done over the months from i.materialise that there looked to be visible triangulation in the metal - this triangulation is not in the meshes I provide, I always provide high res meshes pushing the MB limit.

Wondering if there’s any kind of optimization done on your side to lower the the tri count before the wax/resin version is printed? If so, it’s maybe being applied a little bit too strongly if it’s causing visible triangulation to follow through to the cast version. I’d provide pictures, but they’ve since been sold on.

Or maybe I was just unlucky with those particular print/casts? It’s not a major issue, it’s just noticeable to me as the designer so thought I’d enquirer.

Cheers

#2

Hi there,

When the model is received it is forwarded to production in its initial state and resolution. No adjustments are done unless it is required for the successful output, but this is discussed prior to printing the model.

Regarding gloss silver and untreated brass models, final outputs are in fact presented with visible print lines and uneven surface features that may be referred to as triangulation as well. Polishing contributes to the smooth output of 3D printed metal parts. I hope you can also find this article helpful.

Regards,
Ivan