3D printing in mining planning, does it make sense? 3D printing is gaining ground in several industries, and mining is no different. Yes, this technology has the potential to potential to transform the way mining projects are visualized, prototyped and optimized.
Using STL export, for example, we can create physical models of geological formations, prototype solutions and improve operational processes with more agility and precision.
3 benefits of 3D printing in mining planning
1. Advanced Visualization: The ability to transform digital data into physical models helps in understanding geological conditions and facilitates operations planning.
2. Rapid prototyping: Allows the creation of a more realistic test environment, reducing development time.
3. Hands-on training: 3D models facilitate safe and efficient training of teams, providing a clear understanding of equipment and procedures.
Choosing the ideal software for your mining planning
For 3D printing to be truly effective in mining planning, it is essential to have software that offers seamless integration with advanced modeling and analysis tools.
In this scenario the MinePlan® proves to be the ideal solution, allowing experts transform geological data into efficient physical representations.
With features ranging from 3D modeling to simulation of operational scenarios, MinePlan makes the process even more intuitive, improving visualization, team communication and decision making.
How to work with 3D printing within MinePlan
In MinePlan there is an option to export to STL files, which allows any 3D geometry from your design can be exported directly to your slicing software and consequent 3D printing.
To do this, simply follow the 4 steps below:
1. Access the menu surface and select one of the alternatives:
– Export from Viewer: Choose the desired object directly on the screen.
– Export from OCB: Locate the geometric object in the system folders.
2. Choose the option STL to export the file.
Figure 1: Export to STL function
- Configure printer parameters:
– Set the dimensions of the 3D printing bed and the maximum height.
– Save configuration profiles for different printers.
(At this point, it will open for you to configure the dimensions of your 3D printing bed, and the maximum height, being able to save the configuration profile of your 3D printer and if you have more than one printer, a profile can easily be created for each one.)
4. Adjust the scale so that the object fits on the print bed without altering its geometries.
(If your object becomes too large, you can resize it to the scale that fits on your print bed, without affecting your design geometries, only resizing your export.)
Figure 2: 3D printer parameter setting.
Expert tip: Use the function Verify in the Surface menu to ensure the model is error-free before exporting.
Figure 3: View of the print bed.
Figure 4: 3D Printing.
By integrating 3D printing into mine planning and using MinePlan 3D, you can take your projects to new levels of efficiency and accuracy.
Want to know more? Contact our team to explore all the features of MP3D and start transforming your operations today! Click here!
