The Ultimate Guide to Achieving the Perfect Multicolor+ 3D Print

07.11.2024 | 3dprintal

What is Multicolor+ 3D Printing?

Are you ready to bring your 3D designs to life with full color? If you're considering using Multicolor+, our groundbreaking 3D printing material that allows you to print in more than one color, you're in the right place. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced designer, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get the perfect multicolor print.

The Technology Behind Multicolor+

Multicolor+ is powered by a cutting-edge full-color 3D UV inkjet printer. This technology enables you to print your models in up to 10 million colors! It's not just about color – the material is stronger, offering better surface quality and more precision compared to other 3D printing materials.

UV inkjet printing works similarly to the inkjet printers used for paper, but with a twist. It uses UV-curable inks, which are hardened by exposure to UV light, allowing for vibrant colors and strong prints. During the printing process, layers of ink are applied and hardened one by one until the design is complete. Water-soluble support materials are also used to support overhanging parts, and these are easily removed once the print is finished.

What Colors Can You Expect?

Before diving into your 3D print project, let's discuss what you can expect in terms of color. The colors you see on your computer screen might look a little different from the final print due to the difference between RGB (red, green, blue) and CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) color models. Here's why:

  • RGB: This color system is used by your monitor and combines red, green, and blue light to create colors. The more colors added, the brighter the result.
  • CMYK: The CMYK model is used for printing. It’s based on mixing cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks, and typically produces darker, more muted colors when compared to RGB.

Because your screen and the printer use different systems, the colors on your monitor might not match the final printed result exactly. Bright colors on your screen can often turn out a bit darker or duller in the final print. To get the best results, always keep this in mind – and if you’re working with specific colors (like skin tones), consider ordering a smaller test print to make adjustments.

Getting Your 3D Model Ready for Multicolor+ Printing

To get your perfect multicolor print, it's essential to upload the correct file format. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Use Supported File Formats: Your 3D file must include color data for the printer to print in full color. File formats that support color include:

    • 3MF
    • Colored STL
    • WRL
    • SKP
    • X3D
    • DAE
  2. For OBJ Files: If you’re using an OBJ file, you also need to include a MTL file and any texture files (like PNG images) in a ZIP. The MTL file tells the printer how to map the textures to your model. Make sure all the necessary files are included before uploading them to the platform.

  3. Ensure Texture Visibility: After uploading your file, check the preview to see if your textures are visible. If they’re not, contact customer support for assistance.

Design Tips for the Best Multicolor+ Results

Now that you’re set with the right file, let’s dive into some design tips to make sure your model prints perfectly:

1. Wall Thickness

  • The Multicolor+ material allows you to print with thinner walls, which is a major benefit for detailed designs. 1mm is the minimum recommended wall thickness for small sections, but larger sections should have at least 1.5mm walls to ensure strength and quality.

2. Hollowing Out Your Model

  • To reduce costs and material usage, you can hollow out your model. However, make sure that the walls remain at least 1.5mm thick. For models with hollow interiors, ensure that there are escape holes (minimum 10mm diameter) to allow the support material to be flushed out.

3. Interlocking Parts

  • Want to 3D print interlocking pieces, like a chain or a movable mechanism? Make sure there’s at least 0.5mm of space between each part for the support material to be properly removed. The more space you leave, the easier it will be for the support gel to flow through the gaps.

4. Assembled Parts

  • For designs that need to be assembled post-print, ensure there’s enough space between parts that will interlock. A 0.6mm gap between parts is recommended, as real-world friction might affect the fit.

5. Embossed and Engraved Details

  • If you’re adding text or surface details, make sure they have a minimum line thickness of 0.5mm and a depth of at least 0.5mm for engraving or embossing. This will ensure the details print clearly.

6. Maximum Print Size

  • The maximum print size for Multicolor+ is 150mm x 150mm x 150mm. Ensure your model fits within these dimensions.

Achieving the Best Color Accuracy

Since screen settings (brightness, gamma, and color temperature) can vary greatly from one monitor to another, it’s important to manage expectations when designing for color accuracy. If your design requires precise colors – like for realistic human skin tones or branded products – consider ordering a smaller print first to test and refine the colors.

Conclusion: Ready to Print?

With Multicolor+, creating detailed, colorful 3D prints has never been easier. By understanding the technology behind the material, preparing your files correctly, and following the design guidelines, you can achieve stunning, high-quality prints that truly bring your designs to life.

Remember:

  • Check that your textures are properly loaded before submitting your order.
  • Pay attention to wall thickness, interlocking parts, and hollowing to ensure a successful print.
  • Consider testing color accuracy for precise designs. 

If you're looking for multicolor 3D printing, feel free to reach out to us. We offer customized 3D printing services tailored to your specific needs. Whether you have a unique design in mind or require full-color printing for prototypes, models, or artistic projects, our advanced technology and expertise can bring your ideas to life. Let us help you create high-quality, vibrant, and detailed 3D prints that perfectly match your vision. Contact us today to discuss your project and get started!