Here is a challenge that will put your 3D slicer and printer to the test and can improve the quality of your PLA prints.

1. Print thepla_cooler_test1.stl model using PLA andno support material. Optimize the setting of your slic3r and printer to get the best quality you can (e.g. how clean is that inner surface of the ball?)
2. Print thepla_cooler_test2.stl model using theexact same settings. This model is identical to pla_cooler_test1.stl except that it has additional two 'needles'.
3. Compare the quality of the prints from the two models. Do you see a difference? For example, does one print has a cleaner inside the ball. (you can ignore artifacts that you can easily cleanup).

If the second print is of better quality than the cooling of your printing process is sub optimal and you will be benefited from the Customizeable PLA Cooler thing at http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:625303

Please share your experience and results in the comments below.

Category: 3D Printing Tests