Frequently asked questions
Here you will find a few answers to frequently asked questions. If you can't find anything here, use our contact form.
How do I calculate the scale of a model?
To calculate the scale of a model, we need a measure of the original and a desired measure of the target model. This is usually calculated based on the length of the ship. The length of a ship (the template) can usually be researched on the Internet. If you have these, you only have to think about the model and its length. Then divide the original length by the desired model length. The result is the benchmark.
What do you mean by scaling factor?
The scaling factor is the factor by which a 3D model in the slicer is enlarged on all coordinates (X, Y and Z) in order to reach the desired scale. The scaling factor is usually given as a percentage. and can easily be calculated using the rule of three.
Which filament is suitable?
In principle, any filament is suitable for our models. However, there is a big "but." Pay attention to the properties of the respective materials.
PLA is the best material for delicate, decorative, or static models because it's easy to print and very dimensionally stable. However, it softens at temperatures as low as 60 degrees Celsius, and your model can warp. Therefore, using it in direct sunlight can be disastrous for your model.
PETG is the robust mid-range material, ideal for functional or weatherproof components that need to withstand somewhat higher stress. However, it is prone to stringing, which requires a lot of post-processing.
ABS is the most technically advanced yet most stable filament, suitable for highly stressed or post-processed model parts. It can be left outdoors without any problems. However, it should be painted, as UV light will damage it over time. Additionally, printing with ABS produces unpleasant fumes. Therefore, you should filter the air and use an enclosed build chamber.
Resin or filament
When in doubt, use filament!
In general, filament printing is the more sensible way to build the models, as the material is more robust. Resin is sensitive to impact and can break under stress.
Our models come with a generous number of parts. Some of these parts may be more difficult to print at smaller scales, or may result in a loss of detail.
If you own filament and resin printers, you can get even more out of the kits, as this allows you to achieve the absolute maximum level of detail.
How are the prints aligned?
There are a lot of opinions here. Depending on how experienced you are with printing components, many things will fall into place. The parts of our products usually have a flat side, which is suitable as the side to be positioned on the base plate. However, due to the nature of some components, it is not always possible to generate such areas. Here you have to work with a support structure so that your printing is successful. In such cases, you rotate your component so that it is placed as flat as possible on the base plate. Don't be afraid to position the parts to get a flat lay on the base plate. This increases the area of the support structure on the plate and increases adhesion.
In our construction instructions we specifically do not specify a fixed pressure direction. However, there are basic instructions on how to print the parts. Note that many parts will not be printable without a support structure.
My printout failed, what should I do?
Sometimes a print job fails due to incorrect print settings . Please first check the print settings (supports, wall thickness, temperature). Check if the part orientation is correct and adjust it if necessary.
Examine the sliced model carefully in your slicing software. Pay particular attention to the first few layers and, if you encounter problems, go through them in detail and check for errors. Try to repair the part.
If the problem persists, get in touch – we'll help you analyze the error.
How often can I use the purchased models?
Here in our shop, you're buying data sets, not "models" in the traditional sense. This means you can use them for your own personal use at home. You only need to buy one data set and can then print it as many times as you need – but please note that this is only permitted for use within your home. Printing the data at home with the intention of distributing the printed parts is a violation of the license terms. In the "Accessories" section, you'll find lifeboats, anchors, and much more. Buy one data set and then equip your model with as many printed parts as you require.
Can I also receive pre-printed models?
We offer partially 3D-printed model kits. Take a look at our shop. There you will find specific models that are printed on our behalf by the 3D printing shop Nord. The printed parts will be delivered to you after a production time of approximately 6 weeks. Models not explicitly offered as 3D printed in our shop are not available as 3D printed models.
Please note that 3D printing is very expensive and time-consuming. Some models are so complex to print that the cost can reach almost €1000 or even higher. Therefore, we do not offer a 3D-printed model, as you could buy your own 3D printer for that price and thus have unlimited spare parts available.
Downloadlink doesn't work
No problem – we'll gladly send you a new link to your order.
The download links are valid for 30 days, after which they are deactivated by the system. However, you will still have the option to retrieve your files again.
So if you've misplaced a product or your link has expired, just get in touch. Use the contact form, send us an email to info@printship3d.de, or send us a WhatsApp message.
In order to process your order, we need:
the email address you used to place the order
and your order number
Please note: We will only send new links to the email address you used to place the order.
