Impact of STL file format on the cylindricity deviation of models manufactured using FDM technology

Authors

  • Paweł Zmarzły Kielce University of Technology, Faculty of Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering, Tysiąclecia Państwa Polskiego 7 Ave., 25-314 Kielce, Poland https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3717-1500
  • Paweł Szczygieł Kielce University of Technology, Faculty of Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering, Tysiąclecia Państwa Polskiego 7 Ave., 25-314 Kielce, Poland
  • Anna Bujarska Kielce University of Technology, Faculty of Mechatronics and Mechanical Engineering, Tysiąclecia Państwa Polskiego 7 Ave., 25-314 Kielce, Poland

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24425/mms.2025.154673

Keywords

3D printing, FDM, MEX, cylindricity

Abstract

Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) is a category of MEX additive manufacturing processes that has gained considerable popularity. Its ability to produce cylindrical machine parts makes it a particularly useful technology in this field. In order to ascertain the accuracy of the cylindrical component, it is necessary to carry out a measurement and evaluation of the cylindricity deviation. This measurement can identify defects that are the consequence of the 3D printing process, thus providing valuable insight into the quality of the printed object. Nevertheless, in numerous studies, the impact of the manner in which STL digital files are saved on the formation of errors in the shape of cylindrical elements is overlooked. This article presents studies aimed at determining the influence of STL recording of a virtual model on the accuracy of the printout, as determined by the cylindricity deviation. The measurements were conducted using a Prismo Navigator coordinate measuring machine produced by Zeiss. It has been demonstrated that the manner in which a digital file is saved has an effect on the characteristics of irregularities in cylindrical surfaces, which, in turn, affects the value of cylindricity deviation. The findings of the study, as detailed in the article, will provide a framework for the selection of parameters for the recording of STL files, with the objective of obtaining cylindrical surfaces of an acceptable quality, 𝑖.𝑒. the lowest value of cylindricity deviation.

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Published

2025-09-30

How to Cite

Zmarzły, Paweł, et al. “Impact of STL File Format on the Cylindricity Deviation of Models Manufactured Using FDM Technology”. Metrology and Measurement Systems, vol. 32, no. 3, Sept. 2025, pp. art. no. 4, 1-15, doi:10.24425/mms.2025.154673.

Issue

Vol. 32 No. 3 (2025)

Section

Articles