Sinterit STUDIO Software User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides a comprehensive guide to using Sinterit STUDIO software for preparing models for 3D printing. It covers installation, software features, and best practices for model positioning to ensure optimal print quality.

Table of Contents

1. Installation
2. Tabs Overview
   1. Preset
   2. Custom Material Parameters (open parameters)
   3. Scale
   4. Printing temperature
   5. Warmup and cooldown
   6. Laser power
   7. Laser movement and geometry
   8. Skeletons
3. Models
   1. Adding/removing model
   2. Collisions
   3. Positioning in the red area
   4. Visibility / Locking position
   5. Properties of the model
   6. Move/Rotation axis
   7. Context menu
   8. Duplicating models
   9. Auto-nesting
4. Slice
5. Preview
6. Printers
7. Positioning of Models
   1. Flat surfaces
   2. Solid blocks and boxes
   3. Spheres, cylinders, pipe cylinders and other rounded objects
   4. Sharp details vs. smooth edges
   5. Openings and holes
   6. Movable parts
   7. Temperature management
   8. Filling the build chamber
   9. Summary of positioning rules
8. Updating the Sinterit printers using Sinterit STUDIO
9. Unlocking Sinterit STUDIO ADVANCED
10. Hardware Requirements
11. Technical Support
12. General Legal Information
13. Disclaimer
14. Trademarks
15. Software License Agreement

1. Installation

System requirements for installing Sinterit STUDIO Software:

• 64-bit processor, Windows 10 or higher
• Minimum 1 GB of disk space, Minimum 2 GB of RAM
• Graphics adapter compatible with OpenGL 3.0 or higher.

Installation Steps:

1. Plug the USB flash drive into the USB port on your computer.
2. Locate the "Sinterit Studio" folder.
3. Open "SinteritStudioSetup.exe" file.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions.

(See Fig. 1.1 On-screen instructions during installation)

2. Tabs Overview

To prepare your models for printing, you will complete five steps, displayed as tabs at the top of the window:

• PRESET - configure printer model, powder type, layer height, etc.
• MODELS - arrange models on the PRINT BED.
• SLICE - slice models into layers and save the file for printing.
• PREVIEW - preview layers before printing.
• PRINTERS - overview of connected printers' status.

Key features in the top navigation bar:

• File: Open new/saved files, import models, save projects (*.sspf, *.sspfz), load *.scode files, exit.
• Edit: Undo/Redo changes, cancel material changes, model operations (Select all, Move model, Remove model, Duplicate model).
• Settings: Customize display and model positioning, import/export custom material profiles, change model colors, add printers, import/export models.
• Help: Check for software updates, update printers, view manuals, enter product key, view software information and legal disclosures.

File types in Sinterit Studio:

• *.sspf: Basic project format (does not contain model files).
• *.sspfz: Compressed *.sspf file with models, useful for transfer.
• *.scode: Sliced file, ready for printing.
• Supported formats: *.stl, *.fbx, *.dxf, *.dae, *.obj, *.3ds, *.3mf.

2.1 Preset

IMPORTANT: Settings in this section are global and essential for powder reusability and management during printing.

2.1.1 Basic settings

• Printer Model: Select your printer model. Available powders depend on the printer type (e.g., Flexa Performance for Lisa X, not for Suzy).
• Powder Type: Select the powder type. Dedicated printing parameters appear in other tabs. Available materials depend on software version and printer model. Use "Archived materials" for discontinued powder types.
• Subprofile: Allows using previously available powder formulations without workflow disruption.

2.1.2 Advanced options

Additional settings for customizing the printing process:

• Layer Height: Vertical distance between slices. Affects duration and accuracy. Increasing from 0.100 to 0.125 [mm] reduces printing time but decreases object fidelity.
• Laser Power Ratio: Multiplies final laser power. Allowed range: 0.5-3.0.
• Print Surface Temperature Offset [°C]: Added to Print bed temperature. Recommended +0.5 [°C] for highly utilized builds or powdery cake. Decrease by -0.5 [°C] for too solid cake.
• Shrink Ratio: Material shrinkage ratio. Models are expanded along the width of the print bed for expected size after shrinkage. Parameter is a dimension multiplier. Allowed range: 0.9-1.1.

(See Fig. 2.8 Difference in applying shrinkage)

Use short warmup tick to shorten warmup time (available for PA12 Industrial projects on Suzy and Lisa X printers with firmware version 590 or later).

2.2 Custom Material Parameters (open parameters)

Additional parameters for Lisa X users developing new materials. Select "Custom Material..." from the Powder Type list in the Preset step.

Note: Suzy printers do not support custom materials.

Use "Apply to all models" to update print settings for all extant models. You can also "Save" or "Delete material".

2.2.1 Basic settings

• Material name: User-defined name for the custom material.
• Modify existing material: Check to modify an existing material.
• Nitrogen required: Use when material is exposed to oxidation.
• Refresh ratio [%]: Defines how much fresh powder mixes with used powder. A 50% refresh ratio means mixing equal amounts of fresh and used powder.
• Recoater Blade required: Tick to require the Recoater Blade.
• Intake fan RPM, Exhaust fan RPM: Controls airflow for the laser protective glass system. Recommended settings vary by material.

(See Fig. 2.9 Powder refreshing process)

• Empty layer feed ratio: Calculates powder needed to cover a print bed layer without melted parts. Formula provided.
• Full layer feed ratio: Calculates powder needed to cover a print bed layer with melted parts. Formula provided.

2.2.2 Scale

Adjust virtual size of printouts to balance shrinkage.

• Shrink Ratio: Dimension multiplier for shrinkage compensation. Allowed range: 0.9-1.1.

(See Fig. 2.11 Scale settings)

2.2.3 Printing temperature

Set targets for heater groups and control piston temperature drop.

• Feed bed temperature: 0-150 °C. Should be lower than Print bed temperature.
• Print bed temperature: 0-210 °C. Should be a few °C lower than powder melting point.
• Cylinder temperature: 0-180 °C. Should be a few °C lower than powder melting point.
• Piston temperature: 0-180 °C. Should be a few °C lower than powder melting point.
• Print chamber temperature: 0-140 °C. Should be lower than Print Bed temperature.
• Piston temperature reduction: Customize piston temperature changes at different print heights.

(See Fig. 2.12 Printing temperature section)

2.2.4 Warmup and cooldown

Manage time and height of warmup and cooldown:

• Rising temperature warmup height/time: Powder to recoat before target temperature is achieved / time to raise temperature.
• Constant temperature warmup height/time: Powder to recoat while temperature is stable / time to stabilize temperature.
• Cooldown cover height: Powder to recoat when printing is completed.
• Cooldown time: Time to proportionally decrease temperature settings.

(See Fig. 2.13 Warmup and cooldown section)

2.2.5 Laser power

Adjust parameters related to laser power:

• Energy scale: Multiplier for all laser power parameters.
• Max energy per cm³, infill/perimeters: Affects infill/perimeter laser energy.
• Const energy, infill/perimeters: Affects infill/perimeter laser energy.
• Max power depth, infill/perimeters: Depth at which maximum laser power is used.
• Max infill/perimeter energy multiplier per repeat: Multiplier for repeated infills/perimeters.

(See Fig. 2.14 Laser power section)

2.2.6 Laser movement and geometry

Parameters for controlling laser movement and model geometry:

• Drawing order: Interleave infills and perimeters or draw them separately.
• Perimeter repeats: Use perimeters multiple times to strengthen models and improve details.
• Infill repeats: Use infill multiple times to strengthen models.
• Infill direction: Choose laser approach angle.
• Repeated scanning strategy: Order of repeated model drawings (Repeat whole layer or Repeat each model).
• Number of perimeters: Number of perimeters around the infill.
• First perimeter offset: Offset between model wall and first perimeter.
• Offset between perimeters: Offset between perimeter lines.
• Infill offset: Gap between infill line end and perimeters.
• Hatch spacing: Separation between infill lines, affects tensile strength.
• Model shell wall thickness: Defines maximum shell wall thickness for durability.
• Laser power ratio inside shell: Controls printing on the inside of the shell wall. Can be set to 0 for a hollow shell.

(See Fig. 2.16 Difference with hatch spacing, Fig. 2.17 Difference with shell thickness, Fig. 2.18 Laser movement and geometry section)

2.2.7 Skeletons

Enhance fine details that may fall off or break easily:

• Skeleton wall laser scale: Multiply laser power for thin walls at a distance > 0.2 mm from the surface.
• Surface skeleton wall laser scale: Multiply laser power for thin walls at a distance < 0.2 mm from the surface.
• Dot laser scale: Multiply laser power for single dots at a distance > 0.2 mm from the surface.
• Surface dot laser scale: Multiply laser power for single dots at a distance < 0.2 mm from the surface.

(See Fig. 2.19, 2.20, 2.21 Range of parameter area of effect, Fig. 2.22 Skeletons section)

2.3 Models

Visualize and align models in the Print Bed.

(See Fig. 2.24 Models step view)

Click "How to orientate models?" for detailed guidance.

2.3.1 Adding/removing model

• + ADD MODEL: Add models to the Print bed (supported formats: *.stl, *.fbx, *.dxf, *.dae, *.obj, *.3ds, *.3mf).
• REMOVE MODEL: Remove a single model from the Print bed (or use the delete key).

(See Fig. 2.25 Adding/Removing model)

2.3.2 Collisions

Check for model overlap using the "Show Collisions" button. Collision icons indicate overlapping areas.

(See Fig. 2.26 Collision of models)

2.3.3 Positioning in the red area

Avoid placing models in the red area to prevent deformation or destruction. A warning sign and red highlighting indicate this situation.

(See Fig. 2.27 Positioning in the red area)

2.3.4 Visibility / Locking position

• Visibility of the model: Make models visible, transparent, or hidden.
• Locking the model position: Lock or unlock the model to prevent movement or rotation.

(See Fig. 2.28 Adding/Removing model)

2.3.5 Properties of the model

Model properties are displayed on the left side when a model is clicked. Changes affect only the selected model(s). Hold CTRL to select multiple models.

(See Fig. 2.29 Displaying model properties)

• Selected models: Number of selected models.
• Details: File path and number of triangles (faces).
• Position: Manually set model position (X, Y, Z).
• Rotation: Manually set model rotation (Pitch, Yaw, Roll) or by dragging.
• Scale: Change model size (X, Y, Z).
• Dimensions: Model dimensions.
• Laser Power: Adjust energy scale and laser energy.
• Laser movement and geometry: Configure perimeters, infill, and gaps.
• Skeletons: Enable/disable skeleton feature for thin walls.

2.3.6 Move/Rotation axis

Use the panel in the bottom left to move and rotate models.

• Hide / Show move manipulators: Reveal XYZ axes manipulators for moving models.
• Rotation manipulators: Reveal rotation manipulators for changing model orientation.

(See Fig. 2.30 Hide/Show move manipulators, Fig. 2.31 Rotation manipulators)

Local / Global coordinate system: Switch between coordinate systems for arranging models.

2.3.7 Context menu

Right-click a model to access the context menu:

• Duplicate Models: Copy models based on specified amounts and gaps.
• Remove Models
• Add Models
• Move Models: Move models to specific edges of the print bed.
• Split Models into Submesh: Separate models into individual mesh components.
• Pack bed: Automatically arrange models in the print bed.
• Rest Models: Adjust model rotation and placement.
• View: Rotate the camera (Perspective or Ortho).
• Model Properties: Copy properties (rotation, scale) between models.

(See Fig. 2.32 Context menu of the model, Fig. 2.33 Camera views)

2.3.8 Duplicating models

Duplicate selected models across XYZ axes with specified amounts and gaps.

1. Add model.
2. Arrange model.
3. Open context menu and select "Duplicate Models...".
4. Fill in the "Linear pattern" window (Total number of instances, Gap, Dimensions).

(See Fig. 2.34 Selecting Duplicate Models, Fig. 2.35 Linear pattern window, Fig. 2.36 Original and duplicate model)

IMPORTANT: Maintain a default gap of 3 [mm] between objects for good print quality.

2.3.9 Auto-nesting

Automatically arrange models in the printing area to shorten build preparation time.

1. Add model in Models step.
2. Rotate model.
3. Duplicate model.
4. Right-click and select "Pack Bed".

(See Fig. 2.37 Added and prepared model, Fig. 2.38 Models after duplication, Fig. 2.39 Models after using Pack Bed)

2.4 Slice

Slice prepared models into layers. This process may take several minutes. Check "Generate report" to save results.

IMPORTANT: Information displayed after slicing is necessary for printer operation.

Information required for slicing:

• SCode file name
• Material type
• Layer height
• Estimated total print time
• Estimated powder needed in Feed Bed
• Refresh powder needed after print
• Laser power multiplier
• Total model layers count
• Models volume
• Estimated powder needed in Feed Bed (height)
• Total print height
• Estimated warmup time
• Estimated active print time
• Estimated cooldown time
• Models (numbers and names of sliced models)

(See Fig. 2.40 Slice step view)

IMPORTANT: The *.scode file is sent to the printer. You can re-slice if you need to change positioning or print settings.

2.5 Preview

Inspect individual layers of the sliced model and detect potential mistakes. Choose between 2D (1) and 3D views (2).

(See Fig. 2.41 2D and 3D view)

Check layers by clicking arrows (3) or moving the slider (4). Use "Show all layers" (5) to see previous layers.

View printing process as an animation (Preview section) at selected speed (6).

Load a *.scode file using the "Load from file" (7) button.

(See Fig. 2.42 Preview step view)

2.6 Printers

Check printing status and temperature of Sinterit Suzy/Lisa X printers connected via Wi-Fi.

Information available:

• IP address
• S/N (serial number)
• Loaded file name
• Printing progress (%)
• Time to finish
• Surface temperature

Useful features:

• Camera View: Monitor printing progress, record video.
• Name printer: Assign a name to the printer.
• Send SCode file: Send prepared files to the printer (Wi-Fi required).
• Update firmware: Update printer firmware (not available on Lisa X).
• Abort print: Remotely abort printing.

(See Fig. 2.43 Printers step view)

IMPORTANT: If the printer is not connected to Wi-Fi, upload files via a flash drive.

3. Positioning of Models

Arrange prints to minimize cross-section for best quality-to-durability ratio. Keep models within the white rectangle for proper sintering.

Tips for PA12 SMOOTH and PA11 ONYX materials (less critical for FLEXA powders):

3.1 Flat surfaces

Avoid laying flat and thin surfaces directly on the print bed due to internal strain and shrinking. Rotate models by 45 degrees on each axis to minimize surface area and aid heat release.

EXCEPTION: Flat surfaces up to 12 cm² or single-layer objects.

(See Fig. 3.1 Incorrect arrangement, Fig. 3.2 Correct arrangement)

3.2 Solid blocks and boxes

Position solid blocks and boxes so no side aligns with the Print Bed walls. Rotate models 15-85 degrees (45 degrees optimal) on all axes to diminish heat accumulation.

(See Fig. 3.3 Incorrect arrangement, Fig. 3.4 Recommended arrangement)

3.2.1 Solid blocks

For cylinders with smooth surfaces, print vertically along the Z axis. A 45-degree angle is also acceptable.

(See Fig. 3.5 Recommended arrangement of the cylinder)

3.2.2 Boxes

Avoid placing boxes upside down or covering them with lids. Heat accumulation can deform the print.

(See Fig. 3.6 Incorrect arrangement, Fig. 3.7 Correct arrangement)

3.3 Spheres, cylinders, pipe cylinders and other rounded objects

Print cylinders and pipe cylinders vertically with a smooth surface. If necessary, rotate at a 45-degree angle. Rotate models with details.

(See Fig. 3.8 Correct arrangement of the cylinder with details)

3.4 Sharp details vs. smooth edges

3.4.1 Sharp details

Orient detailed surfaces upward for sharp details. Keep the cross-section area small. Flat models with sharp details should be arranged at 45 degrees on each axis, with the detail facing up.

(See Fig. 3.9 Defined details, such as inscriptions, should be arranged face up)

3.4.2 Smooth edges

Arrange parts with smooth details upwards to avoid overrunning.

(See Fig. 3.10 The correct positioning of the detail for a smooth finish)

3.5 Openings and holes

Lay openings flat (axes X and Y) and facing up. Vertical arrangement may distort opening shapes.

(See Fig. 3.11 Correct arrangement of models with openings)

If necessary, arrange models with openings at an angle, but be aware of potential distortion.

(See Fig. 3.12 Acceptable arrangement of models with openings)

3.6 Movable parts

Position movable parts perpendicular/parallel to the printing chamber for accurate joints and articulation.

(See Fig. 3.13 This arrangement should provide a movable model)

Rotating movable models may affect joint accuracy.

(See Fig. 3.14 Incorrect arrangement, which may cause sticking of moving parts to surfaces)

3.7 Temperature management

When printing multiple elements at different heights, arrange them flush at the top to reduce the "orange peel" effect and curving.

(See Fig. 3.15 Incorrect arrangement. The possibility of defects., Fig. 3.16 Correct positioning considering temperature management)

3.8 Filling the build chamber

To fill the workspace, follow previous sections. Model quantity and volume affect print duration. Maintain a minimum distance of 3 [mm] between models to prevent sticking or warping. Printing layers with identical models is recommended to avoid defects.

(See Fig. 3.17 Incorrect arrangement of models in the print chamber., Fig. 3.18 Correct arrangement of models in the print chamber.)

TIP: Use the "CHECK COLLISIONS" button to check for model collisions.

3.9 Summary of positioning rules

• Optimize arrangement using the provided tips.
• Stack identical models on the same layers to avoid defects caused by different exposure lengths.
• Keep layers similarly filled. Stack longer layers higher if necessary.
• Skipping tips may reduce printing time but can lower quality.
• Always use "Show collisions" to ensure models do not collide.
• For concerns, contact Sinterit After-Sales: support@sinterit.com.

4. Updating the Sinterit printers using Sinterit STUDIO

Update Sinterit Suzy/Lisa X firmware to work with the latest Sinterit Studio Software. Check for updates via Help -> Check for update...

Update Steps:

1. Select Help -> Update printer.
2. Choose the printer model.
3. Insert USB flash drive and click "Create Update USB Drive".
4. After copying files, remove the USB drive, plug it into the printer (turned off), turn on the printer, and follow on-screen instructions.

(See Fig. 4.1 Creating update files, Fig. 4.2 Message after copying files)

5. Unlocking Sinterit STUDIO ADVANCED

Contact Sinterit sales team for access to the expanded version. Unlock new features by registering your printer and entering a license key.

1. Register your printer at www.sinterit.com/support/register-your-printer/.
2. Receive license key and activation files via email.
3. In Sinterit STUDIO Software, select Help -> Enter product key.
4. Enter your individual license code.
5. New features (open parameters) will be available.
6. Save attached files to a flash drive.
7. Insert USB flash drive into the printer.
8. Accept the update installation on the printer screen.
9. Reset the printer to complete the upgrade.

(See Fig. 5.1 Unlocking Sinterit STUDIO ADVANCED)

*Sinterit STUDIO ADVANCED features are compatible only with Lisa X printers.

6. Hardware Requirements

System requirements for Sinterit STUDIO Software:

• 64-bit processor
• Windows 10 or higher
• Minimum 1 GB disk space
• Minimum 2 GB RAM
• Graphics adapter compatible with OpenGL 3.0 or higher

7. Technical Support

For questions or doubts, contact After-sales department:

• Email: support@sinterit.com
• Phone: +48 570 702 886
• Visit www.sinterit.com for distributors and technical support lists.

8. General Legal Information

Sinterit sp. z o.o. is registered in Krakow, Poland. This document is protected by copyright and industrial property laws.

This manual assists in correct device use, maintenance, and problem-solving. Content is for information and use by professionally trained individuals.

Information is intended for use with Sinterit STUDIO and Sinterit STUDIO ADVANCED software.

Specifications and markings are subject to change without notice due to product development.

9. Disclaimer

Sinterit is not responsible for the use of this information with other products. Sinterit disclaims liability for incorrect information or omissions. Sinterit reserves the right to correct errors at any time.

10. Trademarks

The Sinterit logo is a registered trademark of Sinterit.

11. Software License Agreement

Sinterit grants a non-transferable license to use Sinterit STUDIO Software under the terms and conditions agreed upon with the buyer.