When printing a lithophane, it's recommended to use a slower speed than usual, with the highest speed ideally being 30-35 mm/s. This specific speed range helps achieve the detailed and nuanced light transmission necessary for high-quality lithophane results.
Optimizing Your Lithophane 3D Print Settings
Creating a successful lithophane requires careful attention to several 3D printing parameters, not just speed. By optimizing these settings, you can ensure that light passes through the varying thicknesses of the print precisely, revealing your image effectively.
Here's a breakdown of the key settings for lithophane printing:
| Setting | Recommendation | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Print Speed | 30-35 mm/s (highest speed) | Ensures precision and detail for light transmission. |
| Infill | None (0%) | Prevents internal structures from interfering with light. |
| Wall Thickness | Equal to the thickest point of the image in your lithophane | Critical for proper light variation and image formation. |
| Layer Height | As small as possible, typically 0.1-0.15 mm | Provides fine detail and smooth transitions for the image. |
Detailed Setting Considerations
- Print Speed (30-35 mm/s): Printing slower allows the 3D printer to lay down plastic with greater accuracy, which is crucial for lithophanes where minute variations in thickness translate directly into changes in light and shadow, forming the image. Going too fast can lead to inconsistencies and loss of detail.
- Infill (None): Lithophanes rely on the solid plastic wall to create the image. Any internal infill structures would disrupt the light path and obscure the picture. Therefore, always set your infill to 0%.
- Wall Thickness: The entire lithophane is essentially one solid wall with varying thicknesses. Setting the "wall thickness" in your slicer to match the maximum thickness designed for your lithophane ensures that the printer creates a solid, continuous structure without internal gaps or multiple perimeters that could interfere with the image.
- Layer Height (0.1-0.15 mm): Using a very small layer height smooths out the transitions between different shades in your image. Thinner layers mean more distinct steps in thickness, allowing for a higher resolution and a more detailed, smoother-looking picture when lit.
By meticulously adjusting these settings, particularly prioritizing a slower print speed and fine layer height, you can achieve impressive and detailed lithophane prints that truly bring your images to life with light.
