Z-suite: Slicing

When you first open Z-Suite you'll be presented with an option to choose a device to print from.

Select the appropriate device you need to use for the job

For this guide we'll be using the M300

Drag and drop your files into the software or browse for files by clicking "Add Files"

Clicking add files brings up your file explorer where you can select the 3d object you want to print

Make sure your file is in the appropriate file type of .stl

Select your file, then click open

Your file is then imported onto a plate virtually representing the build plate

Navigating is pretty easy and similar to other 3D software

Scrolling changes the zoom and holding down the left button of your mouse allows you to rotate the plate

All these basic tools have associated buttons on the left toolbar

Selecting a model on the plate allows access to a new set of tools on the toolbar

This includes moving, scaling, rotating, placing by face, and splitting the model

Access the resizing tool by clicking on the button with a line going through a point

Files can be exported in one unit system and then be imported in another so a part becomes either too small or too large

Retrieve the bounding box dimensions to fix this issue

This model should be 7" x 4" x 1.5", but as you can see, it has been scaled 0.1x in mm and is clearly too small

Convert one of your bounding box dimensions to mm and make sure that the little lock next to the dimensions is locked to preserve the scaling

Once you change the dimension your model will look like the appropriate size

Orient your model in the best way to be printed

Minimize overhangs

Optimize for the least amount of support

For this model it is pretty straight forward that we want the large flat face on the plate

Use the rotate model or place by face tool to achieve this action

Move the model towards the center of the build plate and ensure that it fits properly

Change values in the move function box or drag the model when the tool is selected

Once the model is correctly scaled and moved you can move on to the next page by clicking "Print Settings"

Select the correct material from the drop down menu

Click on "Automatic" for support

Use 0.14mm layer thickness for normal parts, but make it smaller for finer parts and larger for coarser parts

Set print quality to "Normal" in most cases

Use rectilinear infill pattern unless customer states otherwise

Use 5-15% infill unless customer states otherwise

Click "Preview" down at the bottom when finished

When you click preview, the software will go through and add support where its necessary and generate the .zcode for the printer to read

Note the time and amount of material needed

Export the file to use on the printer

Uncheck the "Export the report to a .txt file" unless you want that information

Save your .zcode file in your desired location