3D SYSTEMS, INC.
75-D059 REV_A
18
ORANGE PEEL
Description:
Vertical surfaces on the part have voids or recesses that create a distinctive orange-like texture . This problem
usually appears on surfaces printed parallel to the front of the system .
Theory of Cause:
Lack of density at the part’s surface caused by excessive reuse of the material or thermal problems in the
print chamber .
Visual Signs:
None .
Consequences:
Although other part properties remain unchanged, surface finish and appearance are affected.
Corrective Action:
Take one of the following actions:
Verify that you are following correct sifting and recycling procedures and correct any problems . See
and
“Recycling Material” on page 9.
• Use a higher ratio of fresh powder to used powder .
• Increase the post- and/or pre-add powder delays
• In the Part Profile, increase the laser power.
• In the Print Profile, increase Part Heater setpoint.
POWDER FLUFF
Description:
The powders in the feeds are loose and fluffy.
Theory of Cause:
The powder is not uniformly consolidated during
the loading process .
Visual Signs:
The only visual sign may be short feeds during
the initial part of the build . If you adjust the feed distance in the
warm-up stage to compensate for short feeds, you may experience
excessive powder feeds toward the end of the build, if you do not
change the feed distances .
Consequences:
Powder fluff causes short feeds.
Corrective Action:
Take one of the following actions:
• Vary the Left/Right Feed Distance parameters in the Build
Profile to overcome short feeds due to powder fluff.
• Use a large scoop to settle the powder in the feeds . This
provides a uniform powder density in the feeds and reduces
the possibility of short feeds .
Related Problems:
RIPPLES, FEED BED
Description:
Ripples that run in the Y direction appear in the feed
powder .
Theory of Cause:
The feed temperature is too high or the feed
distance is too high .
Visual Signs:
Visible ripples in the feed beds .
Consequences:
May cause clumping in front of the roller
Corrective Action:
Take one of the following actions:
• Reduce the Left and Right Feed Heater Setpoint parameters
in 2-degree increments until the ripples disappear . Wait a
few minutes between temperature adjustments to allow the
change to take effect .
• Reduce the Left and Right Feed Distance parameters but take
care not to short feed across the part bed .
Related Problems:
