Republic of the Philippines

Cebu Technological University – Main Campus

M.J. Cuenco Avenue Corner R. Palma St. Cebu City
1st Semester Midterm 2022-2023

IE PC 212 LAB

A Written Report of the Activity of 3D Printing and Laser Cutting in Cebu

Technological University- Danao Campus

Submitted by:

Abing, Diodalo C.
De Jesus, Elizabeth Ann I.
Malabosa, Kasandra Eliesha C.
Salinas, Harvie B.
Tampus, Rovi John A.

BSIE 2-5

Submitted to:

Engr. Allen Mae De Leon

Course Instructor

November 13, 2022

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Part I. Introduction……………………………………………………………………………… 2

Part II. Industrial Process Description………………………………………………………… 3

2.1 General Production Process……………………………………………………… 4

2.2 Industrial Processes (include equipment, techniques, others) ....................................

6

Part III. Analysis of the Study……………………………………………………………………10

Part IV. Recommendation………………………………………………………………………. 11

Part V. Conclusion………………………………………………………………………………. 12

Part VI. Realization of the Activity……………………………………………………………… 13

Part VII. Glossary………………………………………………………………………………… 14

Part VIII. Bibliography…………………………………………………………………………… 15

Part IX. Pictures…………………………………………………………………………………. 16

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INTRODUCTION

The technical discoveries, inventions, and engineering applications utilized inside

society to complete specific jobs have both aided and hampered ancient and modern human
civilizations. Technological advancements have become required for societies to exist and
grow, but human societies' culture, goals, and ambitions have affected how those
civilizations have generated, profited from, and been hampered by technology. It is widely
believed that 3D printing has the vast potential to become one of these technologies.

Second-year students from Cebu Technological University (CTU)-Main Campus'

Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering, Section 2-5, visited a fabrication laboratory on
one of the university's satellite campuses in Danao, Cebu, on October 24, 2022. where
students were assigned and given the opportunity to examine what and how laser cutting
and 3D printing will be carried out. Essentially, 3D printing technology, also known as
additive manufacturing (AM), refers to procedures used to build a 3D item that employ
computer-aided design (CAD) to create objects layer by layer. Charles Hull popularized 3D
printing in 1980. Since then, 3D printing technology has been genuinely revolutionary,
opening new prospects and giving hope to many organizations wanting to increase industrial
efficiency.

Laser beam cutting, on the other hand, is a well-established and successful means of
cutting a broad variety of materials. Laser cutting works by focusing a high-power pulsed
laser on a specified area of the material to be cut. The energy beam is absorbed into the
material's surface, and the laser's energy is transformed into heat, which melts or vaporizes
the substance. Marking, cutting, and welding are the three most popular general uses of
laser processing. Aside from laser processing of metallic materials, there are several
industrial uses of laser processing of nonmetallic materials, such as polymer welding and
wood-based material cutting (Steen 2003; Caiazzoa et al. 2005; Eltawahni 2013).

The primary purpose of this study is to give more details on the diverse experiences
encountered by students of the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering section 2-5
from Cebu Technological University's Main Campus all through their progression at CTU-
Danao by clearly defining the production operations, materials, and automated systems
used throughout 3D printing and laser cutting.
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INDUSTRIAL PROCESS DESCRIPTION

Three-dimensional printing and laser cutting involve a range of procedures,

equipment, and materials. The basic material utilized in 3D printing is polylactic acid 3D
printer filament, often known as PLA, which is one of the most regularly used materials in
desktop 3D printing. PLA prints at a low temperature, often between 190°C and 220°C, and
a heated bed between 80° to 110°C is required during the process. The nozzle temperature
is 210°C, while the heated bed temperature is 60°C.

Mirrors are placed on both sides of the laser cavity with important parallel alignment
in laser cutting. The light will bounce off the mirrors indefinitely, generating precisely
perpendicular light beams. The buildup of light along the laser cavity's axis finally produces a
high-power laser beam. Optics are widely used in laser cutting to focus the output of a high-
power laser. Using laser optics and computer numerical control, the laser beam is steered to
the material.

Manufacturers are utilizing digital technology to simplify complicated operations to

enhance production and profitability. Streamlining long-established and frequently
complicated procedures is a demanding and time-consuming endeavor. Furthermore, by
automating processes and offering templates and other tools, productivity software may help
users work more quickly and efficiently. Accuracy has been improved. Automated features
can assist eliminate mistakes in data entry and other processes.
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GENERAL PRODUCTION PROCESS

This section provides an overview of the flow of the production process for 3D
Printing and Laser Cutting:

Import STL file

Digital 3D Design
Export file to STL into the slicer
using Autodesk
format using Ultimaker
123D
Cura

Slice the 3D
Import G-code file Export G-code
model file to
to the 3D printer File
create a Print File

Select file on
Machine Set-up Printing Process
printer interface

Post processing Remoal of the 3D

for the 3D printed item from the
Object machine

Figure 2.1 Schematic Diagram of the 3D printing process

Polylactic acid filament is the raw material used in the 3D printing process. PLA
filaments are an excellent starting point for 3D printing due to their ease of usage and low
warping. PLA is also one of the most ecologically friendly 3D printing materials and, unlike
ABS, is biodegradable. Other advantages of PLA include its inexpensive cost and a broad
range of colors and mixes. PLA is one of the easiest materials to 3D print successfully
because of its low melting temperature and little distortion.
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Design Canvas Remove

Rastering images
using Adobe background to the
and fonts
Illustrator images selected

Prepare and open Export the canvas

Cutting of the
the file In RD into (AI,JPEG,
Edges
Works V8 SVG) File Format

Download and send

Rescaling Machine Set-up the file in laser
cutting machine

Post processing
Laser Cutting Print the file in
for the final
Process Acrylic
product

Figure 2.2 Schematic Diagram of the laser cutting process

Acrylic is the basic material utilized in the laser cutting process. Some polymers are
more suited for cutting than others. Acrylic produces the greatest laser effects. Acrylic is
frequently used as a shatter-proof replacement to glass. While many polymers are prohibited
from laser cutting, acrylic is declared safe and performs admirably.
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INDUSTRIAL PROCESS

This section focuses on the procedures involved in 3D printing and laser cutting,
covering the equipment, techniques, and machines used.

Three-dimensional (3D) Printing Process

Manufacturing is now associated with 3D printing. According to research, it is the

most popular prototyping process employed by manufacturers. Manufacturing organizations
may swiftly create prototypes for testing and quality assurance by using a 3D printer. As a
result, the following procedures should be followed:

 First Process

Typically, 3D printing begins with a computer. You must construct your design in 3D
utilizing CAD (computer-aided design) software. The program may also offer some indication
of the structural integrity of the completed product, using scientific data on specific materials
to produce virtual simulations of how the thing would react under certain conditions. If you
are unable to develop the design yourself, there are several free web sites providing free
designs. CTU-Danao used Autodesk 123D software, but the researchers created their own
3D model with Fusion 360.

 Second Process

Once you've generated or selected a design, you must either export or download the
STL file. The STL file contains information about your conceptual 3D item. After the
researchers have decided on a 3D model, the object model is stored as a stereolithography
(STL) or an additive manufacturing file (AMF) format. Manufacturing businesses will verify
the model file for faults during the modeling stage.

Most CAD software can identify flaws that, if ignored, might result in faults in the
printed item. Common model file faults include holes, self-intersections, manifold flaws, and
faces. The STL file will then be imported into a slicing program, such as Ultimaker Cura. The
information from the STL file will be converted by the slicing program into G-code, which is a
particular code containing explicit instructions for the printer.

 Third Process

When the researchers have done exporting the g-code file, they will link it to the 3D
printer via a Micro SD Card. Following that, they will choose the file from the list of options
on the printer's interface.
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 Fourth Process

The next step is to prepare the machine for printing, with an Ender 3 Pro serving as
the preferred printing device at CTU-Danao. Before beginning the printing process, make
sure that the printer bed temperature is set to 50 or 60 degrees Celsius, the nozzle
temperature is between 200 and 210 degrees Celsius, and the fan speed is set to 100
percent.

To obtain a better degree of printing precision, both the extruders and the printing
base must be calibrated. To create the layers, the filament is rolled around a reel, passed
through the extruder, and melted at the hot end. The nozzle rotates back and forth, and after
each layer is applied, it is allowed to dry before adding the next one. This procedure is used
repeatedly until the 3D design is complete.

Allow the machine to do its work; the construction process is largely automated. Each
layer is typically 0.1 mm thick, however this can vary greatly. This procedure might take
hours or even days to complete depending on the size of the item, the machine, and the
materials utilized. Check on the machine on a regular basis to ensure there are no faults.

 Fifth Process

Take the printed item out of the machine. Wear gloves to protect yourself from hot
surfaces or dangerous substances. Removing the printed object off the printer bed may be a
difficult and even risky task. As a result, the researchers employ a high-quality scraper to
reach beneath the printed object and pull it off the printer bed. The created object from many
3D printers will require some post-processing. Cleaning away any residual powder or
washing the printed item might be examples of this. Because certain materials need time to
cure, the new print may be weak at this process, so use caution to ensure it doesn't break or
fall apart.
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Laser Cutting Process

Laser cutting is one of the quickest cutting processes available, ensuring excellent
precision and accuracy without causing material degradation. A CNC or computer numerical
control laser cutting machine is a machine used in the manufacturing process that uses a
laser to engrave and cut both metals and nonmetals. A laser beam is focused on a
workpiece to cut it. The stages below will help you better comprehend the procedure.

 First Process

With the help of Adobe Illustrator, the researchers were able to create a layout to
canvas, which is the first step in the process of laser cutting. Afterwards, the researcher
imports and removes the background of the objects and positions them on the precise
template, then adds the appropriate text, logo, and a border.

 Second Process

Because the machine can only identify and etch black patterns, rasterizing the
images and altering the text to make them black is required. The researchers then
completed the design by cutting the pattern so that the machine could recognize the
appropriate canva forms. When the file is ready, the researcher saves it as an Adobe
Illustrator vector file type on the USB and transfers it to another laptop running RDWORKS
version 8.

 Third Process

With the help of the trainers, the researchers were able to rescale the layout in fit
within the raw material used. Before printing, the laser cutter's fundamental parameters must
be altered according to the material in the "Print Properties" dialogue box. Changing speed
and power must be done thoroughly since a high power will cut through stronger, thicker,
more combustible stock, but a low power may not be powerful enough to entirely cut through
the material. Because the laser swings back and forth very fast during raster operations, a
high speed on a big piece may wear out the gantry. The interns then assist the researchers
in rescaling the layout so that it can fit within the raw material used while they prepare the
machines. A laser cutter has basic settings that must be adjusted according to the material
in the "Print Properties" dialogue box of the laser cutter before printing. Changing speed and
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power must be 100% thoroughly since a high power will cut through thicker, stronger, and
more combustible stock, whilst a low power may not be strong enough to entirely cut through
the material. Because the laser swings back and forth swiftly during raster operations, a high
speed on a big piece may wear out the gantry. After tweaking the settings, the file is loaded
into the machine and prepared for laser cutting.

 Fourth Process

The completed pattern was then fed into the machine, which was then prepared for
laser cutting by the acrylic; only hairline-registered lines or vector pictures with the smallest
possible line thickness will be sliced by the laser throughout the procedure. Vector cutting is
utilized to cut out the shape of the object as well as any features or holes specified by the
researchers will be carved out in the material since the laser will cut all the way through the
acrylic when fitted with the right settings.

 Fifth Process

Start the laser cutting process by running the file that was delivered to the machine.
During the cutting process, the cutting head constantly shoots a laser at the acrylic to cut
through it. The laser cutter driver scans all the data to determine where to cut and engrave,
after which the object is brushed with a soft bristle and the sticker is removed off the 4 mm
thick acrylic. Finally, the researchers dispose of any scrap materials that will no longer be
utilized.
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ANALYSIS OF THE STUDY

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RECOMMENDATION

The following are the recommendations that the researchers observed during the
operating process of 3D Printing and Laser Cutting.

 In the 3D printing area, the researchers observed that there is no proper

organization of the connection wires from the equipment to the outlet, which
may cause an accident or halt the process of 3D printing. The researchers
would like to recommend that there should be a proper organization of wires
to reduce the errors in the 3D printing process.
 The researchers would like to propose that there should be other options for
filament colors in 3D printing to have a more natural and /or specific
visualization of a miniature model of the designed project.
 The researchers experienced an error in the 3D printing process due to the
wrong measurements used in designing the 3D model. Therefore, the
researchers want to suggest that they should have guidelines on what are the
minimum and maximum measurements of the design, specifically the fonts
and other details.
 In the laser printing area, the researchers want to recommend putting some
safety precautions in place to remind people of the danger and ensure safety
in the workplace.
 The researchers experienced an error during the exporting and importing of
files from the computer used in designing to the laptop used for the laser
cutting. Therefore, the researchers want to recommend that they have a
yearly upgrade of their flash drives to reduce file system errors.
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CONCLUSION

The 3D Printing and Laser Cutting services that CTU Danao Fablab provides
highlight how technological advancements have aided and paved the way in today's
generation through emerging in a most simple and diversified approach of procedures. It
illustrates the entire procedure and conception of how these technologies should be carried
out, down to their materials, methods, machines, and including the significance and
applicability of their contribution to society.

The flow on each of these operations depicts the importance of its processes and
methods in regards with that the use of 3D Printing today is truly astounding, it is uncertain
what might the future hold, but it is certain that additive layer manufacturing will be a large
corporate entity in solving various aspects of problems and that it also distinguishes its
potential to create an almost infinite number of forms. Although, making changes to the
design itself might increase the operation's efficiency even if 3D printing is a labor-intensive
procedure depending on how it is designed. In contrast, Laser Cutting works by directing a
high-power laser's energy onto the surface of the object to be cut. Since the laser beam
won't wear out throughout the cutting process, laser cutting machines produce higher
precise levels and greater edge quality than conventional cutting methods. Additionally, we
can cut complex forms with the aid of laser cutting technology at a speed that is comparable
to or even faster than that of traditional cutting techniques.

In conclusion, this study is a good alternative for getting hands-on experience in line
with the fact that it is relevant to our course, but it also establishes mind-based experiences
that can help us develop in accordance with the environment to which we are exposed.
Additionally, the procedures, methods, materials, and machines assist us students in
learning about the applications of these technologies and make us aware of any potential
outcomes or scenarios that may arise. The training itself gives students both the freedom
and responsibility to learn through real world situations that enhance our capabilities and
makes us equipped and ready for our future endeavor.
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REALIZATION OF THE ACTIVITY

As of these days 3D Printing and Laser Cutting becomes more and more common, it
will become more accessible and easier for inventors and creatives to turn their ideas into
realities. 3D Printing already makes it far easier for inventors to produce prototypes. In the
future, the manufacturing process could be carried out by 3D printing as well.

By physically manipulating already printed instructional aids or creating their own

tools, 3D printing gives students an opportunity to genuinely interact with the material. This
hands-on component of 3D printing in the classroom increases engagement and
participation, especially for students. By having this 3D Printing it can really help our life
more less hassle and worry free since it can usually copy those things we need in our
everyday lives.

Same goes by Laser Cutting in this process it can really help us to do things easier
and on time. Laser cutting is quick in comparison to other traditional cutting techniques as
most of the work is automated. The cuts obtained by laser are more precise than can be
done by any other method of cutting metals. We realized also that no other technology can
cut so many different types of organic and inorganic materials such as wood, acrylic, glass,
textiles, paper, metal, stone, etc. With these inventions we tend to get things done in time
and somehow make our life easier.
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GLOSSARY

3D Printing- The process of converting a computer file into a three-dimensional object. It is

often accomplished by stacking two-dimensional layers of material to generate a tangible
three-dimensional object. Material extrusion—also known as Fused Deposition Modeling
and Fused Filament Fabrication—is the most prevalent 3D printing technology that employs
thermoplastic filament. Additive manufacturing is another term for it.

Autodesk Fusion 360 - is a commercial computer-aided design, computer-aided

manufacturing, computer-aided engineering, and printed circuit board design software tool.

CAD - Computer Aided Design (CAD) is the method of creating 3D models digitally.

Calibration - The act or practice of modifying an equipment or instrument to improve its

performance or efficiency.

CNC - A CNC machine, also known as a numerical control machine, is a machine that
employs subtractive manufacturing to build 3D objects.

Filament - A thermoplastic that has been made into a continuous wire and coiled onto a
spool to be compatible with the extrusion mechanism of a 3D printer.

Laser Cutting- Laser cutting is a method that vaporizes materials using a laser, resulting in
a cut edge. While it was originally designed for industrial manufacturing, it is now utilized by
schools, small enterprises, architects, and hobbyists.

Process- a step done to complete a certain stage of manufacturing.

Post processing- post-processing in 3D printing refers to any procedure or activity that

must be performed on a printed item, as well as any technology used to further enhance the
product. Consider it a final touch for treating and refining 3D printed components.

Machine- A machine is a physical system that uses power to apply forces and regulate
movement to execute an action.

Ultimaker Cura- Cura is a 3D printer slicing program that is open source.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY

Shahrubudin, N.; Lee, T.C.; Ramlan, R. (2019). An Overview on 3D Printing

Technology: Technological, Materials, and Applications. Procedia Manufacturing, 35(),
1286–1296.

S.L. Chen, The effects of gas composition on the CO2 laser cutting of mild steel,
Journal of Materials Processing Technology, Vol. 73 (1998), p. 147-59.

How to 3D print? The Beginner’s Guide to 3D Printing. (2022, September 13). Retrieved
from https://www.bcn3d.com/the-beginners-guide-to-3d-printing-6-steps/?
fbclid=IwAR1jYOQpeMNAI1eucplYOPy91hmTBZDxNGd2bg1wbF8xNJ7LC4dok
5XojMw

The 3D Printing Process. (n.d.). Retrieved from

https://www.alma.edu/ddsc/resources/technology/3d-printing/the-3d-printing-
process.php?
fbclid=IwAR2_GphyC81V1onA6MRRNzFzcRAEmt2fHFAPBigLD7Tg4jNIWrb
XPpAm4fU

Laser cutting / Technologies - MicroStep. (2022). Microstep.eu.

https://www.microstep.eu/technologies/laser-cutting

Lee, J. (2021, October 29). What is a CNC Laser Cutter? How it Works, Types &

Advantages. Gensun Precision Machining.

https://www.china-machining.com/blog/what-is-a-cnc-laser-cutter/
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PICTURES

Laser Cutting
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Three-dimensional (3D) Printing

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CERTIFICATES