Zcorp Series Zprinter 310 Plus Manual en PDF

ZPRINTER 310 PLUS
HARDWARE MANUAL
Part Number 09548
Rev C, August 2007
2002 - 2006 Z Corporation

11/12/07
All Rights Reserved
USE OF EQUIPMENT
Z Corporation's Equipment, and use of the Equipment, may be subject to limitations imposed under patents licensed to or owned by Z Corp., and is to be used solely for the fabrication of appearance models
and prototypes using new Z Corporation-supplied consumables from Z Corporation or its authorized distributors in the original packaging. Other uses may be restricted; contact Z Corporation for further information. Consult the User's Manual before operation of any Z Corporation Equipment. The Equipment may be
covered by the following U.S. Patents and/or U.S. Patent Applications:
5,204,055
60/558,940
60/741,573
10/848,831
7,087,109
5,340,656
08/771,009
60/808,721
6,416,850
11/335,282
5,387,380
60/612,068
09/706,350
6,610,429
10/817,159
6,007,318
60/789,758
09/835,292
6,403,002
10/650,086
6,375,874
10/999,847
11/453,695
6,989,115
5,902,441
11/000100
60/472,221
7,037,382
The Equipment is designed to be used by design engineers and other professionals in the production of
early-stage 3D appearance models and prototypes. The Equipment is not to be used to produce, either
directly or indirectly, medical or other products that may require precise dimensions or tolerances to ensure
the safe and effective operation of such products. You agree to indemnify, defend and hold Z Corporation
and its officers, directors and employees harmless from and against any and all claims, losses, damages,
costs and expenses resulting from any use of the Equipment other than for the production of early-stage
appearance models and prototypes.
If the customer has purchased all relevant casting-specific products as recommended by Z Corp. (castingspecific service contract, hardware, software, and consumables), as well as a casting license, then the
customer may also utilize the Equipment to fabricate molds for casting using new Z Corporation-supplied
consumables from Z Corporation or its authorized distributors in the original packaging.
2002 - 2006 Z Corporation

11/12/07
All Rights Reserved
ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

Table of Contents
1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.1 How It Works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2 System Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.3 ZPrinter 310 Plus Subcomponents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.4 Gantry(Top View) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.5 Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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2 Quick Start Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2.1 Printer Preparation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.2 Print A Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.3 Post-Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.4 Useful Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.4.1 Part Setup, Orientation and Print Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.4.2 Gross and Fine Depowdering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.4.3 Use of the Removable Build Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.4.4 Oven Dry the Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.4.5 Part Infiltration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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3 EZ Print Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
4 Prepare the 3D Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.1 Start the Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2 Prepare the Build . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.1 Fill the Feed Box With Powder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.2 Remove Air from the Powder and Pack the Feed Box . . . . . . . .
4.2.3 Prepare the Build Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.4 Insert the Removable Build Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.5 Clean Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.6 Clean the Service Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.7 Refill the Binder Bottle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.8 Change the Print Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.9 Empty the Waste Bottle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4.2.10 Place the Printer Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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5 Setup The Build In ZPrint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5.1 Open or Import a File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.2 Part Orientation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.2.1 Parts Containing an Opening or Hollow Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.2.2 Parts Containing Overhangs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3 Check The Build Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.3.1 Print the Build . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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6 Post-Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.1 Depowder the Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.2 Using the External Vacuum Bag Liner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.3 Dry the Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.4 Post-Processing Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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6.5 Infiltrate the Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6.6 Using Z-Max Epoxy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.6.1 Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.6.2 Mixing Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.6.3 General Application. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.6.4 Spraying Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.6.5 Curing Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.6.6 Painting Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.7 Using Z-Bond Cyanoacrylate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.7.4 Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6.8 Using Paraplast X-TRA Wax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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7 Material Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.1 Material Storage Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.2 Using ZCast Powder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.2.1 General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.3 Using ZCast With Your ZPrinter 310 Plus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.3.1 Temporarily Remove the Scraper Blade When Using ZCast . . .
7.3.2 Load ZCast Powder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.3.3 Spread Over The Build Bed and Print. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.3.4 Set Up ZCast Builds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.3.5 Post-Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.3.6 Recycling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.3.7 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.3.8 Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.3.9 Questions and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.4 Using Z-Snap Epoxy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.4.2 Mixing Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.4.4 Clean Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.4.5 Machine Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.4.6 Software Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7.4.7 Part Removal and Post Processing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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8 Maintenance and the Service Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8.1 Unpark. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.2 Change Print Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.3 Purge Print Heads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.4 Check Powder Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.5 Drop Feed Piston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.6 Fill Bed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.7 Preheat Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.8 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.8.1 Clean The Pogo Pins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.8.2 When To Oil/Not Oil 310 Fast Axis Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.8.3 Fast Axis Rails and Bearings Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.8.4 Refill the Wash Fluid Reservoir. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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8.8.5 Slow Axis Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8.8.6 Piston Screws Lubrication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.8.7 Change the Binder Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.8.8 Change the Binder Color. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.8.9 Bleed Air from the Binder Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.9 Service Print Head . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.10 Stripe Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.11 Toggle Roller On/Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.12 Check Status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.13 Print Head Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.14 View Printer Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.15 Upload New Firmware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.16 Upload New Printer Configuration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.17 Edit .INI File, Send File and Receive File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8.18 Machine Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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9 System Details. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
9.1 Symbols Used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
9.2 System Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
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Overview
Overview
This chapter gives you a description of the principles behind the ZPrinter 310 Plus 3D Printer, will familiarize you with the terminology we will use to describe the System, and will introduce you to some of the features of your printer.
This manual will speed you along the path towards quickly and inexpensively building parts. We recommend that you use this manual together with service training for best results. See service@zcorp.com for
more information. The manual contains the following chapters:
Overview. This chapter provides an overview of the principles behind the System, familiarizes you with
the terminology we will use to describe the System, and describes the printer components.
Quick Start Guide. Get printing quicky by following the steps in this chapter.
EZ Print Mode. Describes how to setup a print using EZ Print mode.
Prepare The 3D Printer. This chapter guides you through putting powder and binder in the printer, and
cleaning the Service Station.
Setup The Build In ZPrint. This chapter takes you through preparing the build and checking parameters
in the ZPrint Software before printing.
Post Processing. This chapter explains how to remove printed parts from the build envelope, how to
remove excess powder from the part, and how to infiltrate the parts to improve strength and surface finish.
Material Systems. This chapter instructs you on how to use the ZCast and the Snap-Fit materials with
instructions on how to prepare your printer, printing, and post-processing the part.
Maintenance And The Service Menu. Here we review a few preventative maintenance steps, offer some
tips for troubleshooting and inform you about where to go if you experience any problems printing.
System Details. Describes the System Specifications for the ZPrinter 310 Plus 3D Printer.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT THE Z CORPORATION SERVICE DEPARTMENT AT (781) 8525050, TOLL-FREE AT (877) 88-ZCORP OR VIA EMAIL AT SERVICE@ZCORP.COM. YOU MAY ALSO VISIT THE USER
GROUP WEBSITE AT WWW.3DPUSER.COM.
1.1
How It Works
Z Corporation 3D Printer processes are based on the Massachusetts Institute of Technologys patented
3DP (Three-Dimensional Printing) technology.
The proprietary ZPrint Software first converts a three-dimensional design file (built using 3D CAD) into
cross-sections or slices that are between 0.003" 009" (0.0762 - 0.2286 mm) thick. The printer then prints
these cross-sections, one after another, from the bottom of the design to the top.
Inside the printer there are two pistons. The feed piston is represented in the diagrams below on the left
and is shown in the down position filled with powder. The build piston is the piston on the right, shown
below in the up position. Also represented in the diagrams is the roller (drawn as a circle) and the print
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Overview
assembly (drawn as a square.) On the printer, the roller and the print assembly are mounted together on
the gantry which moves horizontally across the build area.
To begin the 3D printing process, the printer first spreads a layer of zp series powder in the same thickness as the cross section to be printed. The HP print head then applies a binder solution to the powder,
causing the powder particles to bind to one another and to the printed cross-section one level below. The
feed piston comes up and the build piston drops one layer of the thickness. The printer then spreads a
new layer of powder and repeats the process, and in a short time the entire part is printed.
The printer employs several techniques to quickly build great parts. First, binder solution is applied in a
higher concentration around the edges of the part, creating a strong shell around the exterior of the part.
The printer builds an infrastructure within the part by printing with a higher concentration of binder solution.
The remaining interior areas are printed with a lower saturation, which gives them stability, but prevents
over saturation, which can lead to part distortion.
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Overview
After printing, the part is removed from the powder, depowdered, and dried. The part can then be infiltrated with wax, or other performance resins, to increase strength and durability. For more information
regarding infiltrants, see Post-Processing.
There are several important characteristics of the printer that will help you print the best parts for your
intended purpose.
Part Placement. ZPrint will place the parts within the build box to maximize build speed, the most important criteria for the majority of our users. The software positions the parts with the smallest dimension in
the Z (vertical) Axis. In addition to part placement, however, the following other characteristics should be
considered.
Strength. This discussion only applies to untreated parts; once parts are infiltrated, they uniformly take on
the strength characteristics of the infiltrating material. The ultimate strength of the part will be affected by
its orientation within the build envelope. The part will be strongest along the Y-Axis and the X-Axis and
less strong along the Z-Axis. This is because the cross sections are printed in continuous strips along the
Y-Axis (the binder cartridge direction of travel), prints in bands across the X-Axis (the gantry direction of
travel) and prints in laminated layers along the Z-Axis.
Accuracy. The accuracy of the part depends on the materials you choose. You can use features in ZPrint
like Anisotropic Scaling to adjust for expected shrinkage and bring your parts into true scale. More information is found in Chapter 3, Prepare the 3D Printer.
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1.2
Overview
System Components
ZPrinter 310 Plus
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ZD5 Powder Recycling Station
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1.3
Overview
ZPrinter 310 Plus Subcomponents

Top Cover
Binder Bottle (on top

of the Top Cover)
Gantry
Service Station
Feed Piston
Build Piston
Control Panel
Overflow Bin
Waste Bottle
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Overview
Back Panel View
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1.4
Overview
Gantry (Top View)
C a b le C o v e r
Squ eege e
S c ra p e r
R ea r
S n o wp lo w
F a s t A xis R a ils
C a rria g e
Latc h
C a rria g e
P lu n g e r
O il F ille r
H o le s
C a rria g e
As s em bl y
F ro n t
S n o w p lo w
Gantry (Top View)
Service Station (Top View)
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Overview
Heater
1.5
Control Panel
Feed Up/Feed Down. Allows
the user to raise or lower the
piston in the feed box. A light
tap raises or lowers a small
distance; holding down causes
continuous motion.
Spread. This button allows you to

move the gantry from left to right
and allows you to spread powder
over the build box. Holding down
this button will result in continuous
spreading of powder.
Online/Offline.
Enables and
disables printer
communication.
ZPrinter 310 Control Panel Detail
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Build Up/Build Down.

Allows the user to raise or
lower the build box. A light
tap raises or lowers a small
distance; holding down
causes continuous motion.
Overview
ZD5 Powder Recycling Station
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Quick Start Guide
Quick Start Guide
This chapter provides an overview of the setup, part removal, and post-processing steps required to complete a print. For a detailed step-by-step guide to printer setup, please refer to the Setup The Build With
ZPrint, Prepare the 3D Printer, and Post-Processing chapters.
For additional information on post-processing techniques visit the Z Corp. 3DP User website at
www.3dpuser.com.
2.1 Printer Preparation
1. Fill the feed box with powder. Recycle any

powder in the overflow bin or add fresh powder as needed. (See Section 4.2.)
2. Spread powder over the build area and use

the tamper to gently compress the powder.
(See Section 4.2.2.) Vacuum any excess
powder from the top deck.
3. Clean and wipe the squeegees and parking

cap on the Service Station with distilled water.
(See Section 4.2.6.)
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Quick Start Guide
4. Clean the squeegee scraper with a damp

paper towel. (See Section 4.2.6 - Steps 9 and
10.)
5. Check the binder level and fill if necessary.

Fill the binder fluid to the neck of the binder
bottle. (See Section 4.2.7.)
6. Check the waste bottle. Remove and dispose

of liquid in accordance with local disposal
regulations. (See Section 4.2.9.)
7. Place the printer Online.
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Quick Start Guide
2.2 Print A Part

1. Launch the ZPrint Software. Open or import
the file for the build. (See Section 5.1.)
2. Select File > 3D Print Setup or click the 3D

Print Setup icon on the ZPrint Toolbar.
3. In the 3D Print Setup dialog, click Select

Printer to check that the software is communicating with the printer. Confirm whether the
printer is connected through either a Serial
Port or Network connection. The printer will
show up as an option in the text field if the
software is properly communicating with the
printer.
4. Check your powder settings to ensure the
selected Powder Type is the powder you are
currently using in the printer.
5. Click the 2D icon on the Toolbar to view the
build in 2D View and examine the cross-sections of the part before printing.
IMPORTANT: Before starting the build, run Collision Detection, (found on the ZPrint View
menu), when the build contains multiple parts, or
when you are printing a part with a Fixture.
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Quick Start Guide
6. Select File > 3D Print, or click the 3D icon on

the Toolbar, to initiate the build. The printer
will display the Printing dialog where the status of the build is reported for the duration of
the print. Click OK to start the build.
2.3 Post-Processing
1. Get a tray for transporting the part and

place it beside the build box. Use the
tools that ship with your printer to
remove excess powder from the part.
Gently remove the part from the build
box.
2. Place the part in the depowdering station and turn the compressor on. Test
the air pressure from the air wand
against your hand and adjust as necessary. Use low pressure for fine, delicate part features so they do not break
when air is applied.
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Quick Start Guide
3. After the part is depowdered, you can

allow it dry longer or you can infiltrate
the part with the material of your
choice. See Post-Processing for complete information regarding different
options for infiltration.
2.4 Useful Tips

2.4.1
Part Setup, Orientation and Print Settings
Do not tightly pack parts into the build. Keep in mind that you will need to depowder and remove
them from the build box. Allow a little room around the part so you can vacuum the powder away
and get your fingers around or under the part.
Orient parts so delicate features are supported in the Z-Axis. If a delicate feature is only supported
by unprinted powder the chances of breaking that small feature during depowdering is greatly
increased.
When building delicate parts always use a Fixture (see the ZPrint Software Manual). Raise the
part 0.25" (6.4 mm) from the bottom of the build and generate a Fixture under the part. With a Fixture, the part can easily be handled, or transported to an oven or a depowder station.
Do not enable the Bleed Compensation if you are building a part with features under 0.050" (1.27
mm). Go to www.3dpuser.com, or see the ZPrint Software Manual for additional information
regarding this important feature.
Parts printed with the High Performance Composite powders can be reliability printed to be within
+/- 1.0% or +/- 0.005 dimensional tolerance.
To increase the strength of thin parts, you can decrease the layer thickness to 0.0035" (0.089 mm)
if you are using one of the High Performance Composite materials. As you increase the strength of
the part in this manner you are also increasing the amount of time to dry the part. Use of the
removable build plate (see Section 2.4.3) and oven drying the part are recommended. Remove
the part from the removable build plate before placing in the oven.
2.4.2
Gross and Fine Depowdering
Use ZPrint to check where printed parts are located and oriented in the build box so you do not
accidentally bump or brush against a fragile part when removing parts from the printer.
When removing powder from around the part, do not plunge the vacuum nozzle into the powder
bed. Begin at the outer perimeter of the build box, slowly work your way into the build. Hold the tip
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Quick Start Guide
of vacuum nozzle approximately 0.25" (6.4 mm) to .375" (9.5 mm) away from the powder and
allow the vacuum to pull the powder up. Slanting the vacuum nozzle will enable you to control the
suction. This will decrease the chance of breaking a part during removal.
2.4.3
When fine depowdering, always start with low air pressure to minimize the chance of breaking fine
details on the part. When the top and sides of the part are completely depowdered, tilt the part
onto one of its sides. Handle the part carefully as it may be fragile and brittle before infiltration. If
none of the sides of the part can support the weight of the part, you can apply a small amount of
resin or epoxy to those areas to strengthen it. When doing this, be careful not to let any of the infiltrant come into contact with any powder that may still be on the part. Let the infiltrant dry before
continuing to depowder process.
Use of the Removable Build Plate
The removable build plate is an excellent tool. It allows you to quickly remove the part from the build
bed, clean up the printer, and start printing again. The removeable build plate also helps the user easily transport the part to an oven or a depowdering station without ever having to handle the part.
2.4.4
Oven Dry the Part
Although a part printed with one of the High Performance Composite materials can be handled when it
is not completely dried, the part reaches full strength when it is completely dried. Placing the part in an
oven at temperatures less than 200oF (93oC) for 2-4 hours will greatly increase the strength of the
part. This is only recommended for parts printed with the High Performance Composite materials.
Remove the part from the removable build plate before placing it in an oven.
2.4.5
Part Infiltration
Go to the 3DP User website for complete information on materials and applications.
When using Z-Bond:
Always infiltrate the most delicate features of the part first. Z-Bond immediately strengthens the
part areas it is applied to. Let the detailed areas cure for a couple of minutes and then continue
applying Z-Bond to the remainder of the part. Do not apply Z-Bond to the same area twice.
Try to avoid infiltrating the part by applying Z-Bond from spot to spot. When drizzling Z-Bond onto
a part, pick a good starting place and hold that area upward relative to the rest of the part. With
your free hand, place the tip of the Z-Bond bottle against the part and allow the cyanoacrylate (CA)
to flow from the bottle. It is important that the CA flows at a uniform rate and to see how quickly ZBond wicks into the part. By seeing how quickly Z-Bond wicks into the part, it will be easier to
judge where and how quickly to apply it.
Keep the part moving in your hand when you apply Z-Bond. Doing this will prevent Z-Bond from
sticking to your gloves.
When Using Z-Max or Z-Snap Epoxy:
If the part has delicate features, infiltrate them first and allow the epoxy to cure. This will decrease
the chance the feature will break from the part if nudged or bumped. Keep in mind that the features
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Quick Start Guide
that are infiltrated with epoxy will be weak until the epoxy has had a chance to cure and gain
strength.
If the part has multiple delicate features, or it is impossible to handle the part without breaking a
feature, infiltrate those features first. Allow the Z-Max or Z-Snap epoxy to cure and then infiltrate
the rest of the part. This will add time to post-processing the part but it ensures that you have a
good strong part without any fractures.
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EZ Print Mode
EZ Print Mode
You may choose to print using EZ Print mode if you are using ZPrint version 7.2 or higher. EZ Print mode
is useful for the inexperienced user who may need assistance in building a part. EZ Print automates some
functions that eliminates the need for the user to manually setup the part in the build. The EZ Print mode
settings are on the Settings > General Preferences > EZ Print Mode tab in ZPrint. For more information,
see the ZPrint Software Manual.
PLEASE NOTE: EZ Print allows you to easily print a SINGLE part and is ONLY available to use with
the high composite powder series (zp). EZ Print mode will print the part using the default settings for
the selected materials.
1. Launch ZPrint and select File >

Open. When the Open dialog displays, the EZ Print checkbox at the
bottom of the dialog is checked.
Select a file to print and click Open.
If you do not want to print in EZ Print
mode, uncheck the EZ Print checkbox before opening a file to print.
If you are opening a .zbd file and the

powder associated with the .zbd file is
not one of the high composite materials, ZPrint will give you the option to
proceed with the current powder settings, proceed with the default powder
settings, or cancel out of EZ Print
mode.
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EZ Print Mode
2. Select the display units for the part

and click Next.
3. If this part does not fit in the build box,

ZPrint will prompt you to scale the
part using the Scale dialog. Adjust the
scale and click OK to continue.
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EZ Print Mode
4. After the part is loaded, ZPrint will

prompt you to proceed. Select Next
to proceed with printing or select
Back to open a different part or to
change the scale of the currently
loaded part.
When Next is selected, ZPrint creates
a Fixture. It automatically runs Collision Detection to make sure the Fixture and part are not touching. If there
are any collisions detected, ZPrint will
regenerate the Fixture with a higher
accuracy level.
PLEASE NOTE: There are several
different options for Fixture generation on the Settings > General Preferences > EZ Print Mode tab. The
default setting is Auto. When Auto is
selected, ZPrint will determine if the
part has a non-flat bottom. If it does,
ZPrint will automatically create a Fixture for the part.
5. After a Fixture is created, you may

choose to print your part, save and
print later, or you can exit EZ Print
mode and cancel the print.
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EZ Print Mode
6. ZPrint takes you through four or five

dialogs to help you prepare the
printer. There are pictures for each
step, or you can watch a video of the
complete pre-printing preparation.
7. After the steps to setup the printer are

completed, ZPrint starts printing the
part. If the Auto-Saving option is
checked on the EZ Print Mode tab, Z
Print automatically saves your .zbd
file to a specified folder. For more
information, see the ZPrint Software
Manual.
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EZ Print Mode
8. The Printing dialog appears when

the build starts and will remain open
for the duration of the build, so you
can view the status of the build and
see the estimated time remaining
before the build is complete.
9. After the print job is completed, the

part must dry in the build box before it
can be removed. The drying cycle will
strengthen the part for easier handling and removal from the powder.
ZPrint will countdown the time
remaining before you can remove
your part from the build box. For more
information, consult the ZPrint Software Manual.
10. When the part is finished drying,
ZPrint will display a message informing you that the part is ready for
removal. This dialog contains several
helpful video clips about how to
remove, depowder, and infiltrate the
part. Remove and post-process the
part as instructed in the video, or in
the steps below. See the ZPrint Software Manual for complete details.
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Prepare the 3D Printer
This chapter is a step-by-step guide for preparing the printer to print. It covers preparing the build area,
cleaning the Service Station, filling the binder bottle, and emptying the waste bottle.
For additional assistance and information, please contact the Z Corporation Service Department at (781)
852-5050, toll-free at (877) 88-ZCORP or via email at service@zcorp.com. You may also visit the 3DP
User website at www.3dpuser.com.
4.1 Start the Printer

We recommend that you leave the printer on at all times. The printer periodically exercises a print head
routine that services the print heads during down times. If the printer is off, you must turn it on to prepare
the printer.
1. Press the main power switch located on

the back right side of the printer.
2. Press the power switch located on the

electronics box.
3. When the online light, located on the control panel, is on, the printer is ready.
4.2 Prepare the Build

4.2.1
Fill the Feed Box With Powder
Warning: Use only powder supplied by Z Corporation. Use of any other material may impact the performance and/or safety of your printer and will void warranty and service contracts.
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1. Press and hold the Feed DOWN button

until the online light begins to blink. The
feed piston will lower itself until it reaches
the bottom.
2. Check the overflow bin to see if there is
powder to be recycled. If so, remove the
powder from the overflow bin and place it
in the Feed box.
3. If you do not have any or enough powder
to recycle from the overflow bin, pour
fresh powder into the Feed Box.
TECHNICAL TIPS
Keep powder containers closed when not in use to keep powder dry and free of contaminants.
Scoop powder carefully to minimize airborne particles.
Make sure that you carefully vacuum up excess powder. It only takes a minute, and the cleaner the
machine is, the less often it will need maintenance!
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4.2.2
Remove Air from the Powder and Pack the Feed Box
1. Insert the powder scoop repeatedly a few

inches into the loose powder to compact it.
Continue for about a minute until it feels
firm. Repeat for every two scoops of powder.
2. When the feed box is filled to the top, take

the tamper and slowly press it into the powder surface. Be careful not to slap the
tamper into the powder, which will produce
airborne particles. About 10-15 pounds of
force will give it a smooth, flat, and compact
surface. Failure to firmly pack the powder
will affect part quality.
4.2.3
Prepare the Build Area
1. Press and hold the Feed UP button until the

surface of the powder is even with the printer
top deck.
2. Press and hold the Build UP button until the

build piston stops.
3. Make sure the build area is clean.
PLEASE NOTE: If using a build plate see directions below (Section 4.2.4), otherwise you may skip
these steps and go to the following section Clean Up.
4.2.4
Insert the Removable Build Plate
The removable build plate is a useful tool that helps you get the most out of your printer. It allows you to lift
delicate parts from the printer without handling them. It also provides a way for you to safely remove parts
from the machine sooner after they are printed, so that you can quickly start another build. You can also
use the build plate for transferring parts to an oven to quickly dry them to their full green strength.
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1. Bring the build piston all the way to the

top and place the build plate on top of
build piston.
2. The build plate will project above the

top of the build box. In this position, the
gantry would hit the build plate if you
tried to spread powder.
3. Lower the build piston so that the top of

the build plate is slightly below the top
of the build box.
WARNING: If the gantry or the spread

roller hits the build plate, you may damage your printer.
4. Press and hold the Spread button for

four spreads, on the fifth spread, the
automatic Fill Bed routine will take
over. The printer will perform 13 more
spreads with coordinated piston movements to prepare the build area. (You
can also perform this operation by
selecting Service > Fill Bed in ZPrint.)
(To cancel the Fill Bed operation,
press Online on the printer control
panel, or click Cancel in ZPrint.)
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4.2.5
Clean Up
1. Vacuum off any powder that is visible
on the printer top deck.
4.2.6
Clean the Service Station

1. With the printer top cover closed, place
the printer online.
2. Select Service > Unpark in ZPrint. The
gantry will move away from the Service
Station for easy access to the squeegees and parking cap.
3. Lift the printer top cover and manually

pull the gantry away from the Service
Station.
4. Fill the Wash bottle (supplied in the

Toolbox) with distilled water.
5. Rinse the squeegees with water until
all debris is removed.
Squeegees
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6. Rinse the Parking Cap with distilled

water.
Parking Cap
7. With a clean and dry paper towel, wipe

residue off the squeegees and thoroughly dry.
Squeegees
8. With a clean and dry paper towel, dry

off the Parking Cap.
9. Check the Wash Fluid reservoir and
refill if needed. For more information,
see the Maintenance and the Service
Menu chapter.
Parking Cap
10. Locate the squeegee scraper on the

back of the printer assembly.
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11. Using a damp paper towel, wipe off the

top and bottom surfaces of the squeegee scraper.
Wipe Here
12. Close the printer top cover.

13. Press OK in ZPrint to repark the gantry.
4.2.7
Refill the Binder Bottle
Warning: Use only binder supplied by Z Corporation. Use of any other material will impact the performance and/or safety of the printer and will void warranty and service contracts.
1. Unscrew the black cap of the binder
bottle.
2. Fill with binder fluid until liquid reaches

the neck of the bottle. Hold bottle sideways to avoid spilling binder.
3. Replace the binder bottle cap.
Refill until binder fluid

reaches the nec k of bottle.
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4.2.8
Change the Print Head
The only time you will need to change the print head is if it is expired. ZPrint will alert you if your print head
is old and may not complete the build. For more information about changing print heads, please refer to the
Maintenance and the Service Menu chapter.
Technical Tip
A good practice to get into the habit of performing is to fill the binder bottle everytime you change the
print head. This way, there will always be enough binder to last the normal life of the print head.
4.2.9
Empty the Waste Bottle
1. Remove the waste bottle by depressing the button

on the waste fitting and pulling down on the waste
bottle.
Push to unlock
2. Dispose of waste liquid. Binder waste should be

treated in accordance with local disposal regulations.
3. Replace the waste bottle by inserting the bottle back
onto the fitting.
PLEASE NOTE: Make sure the binder bottle is
completely inserted against the fitting. A double
clicking sound will confirm that the binder bottle is
locked into place.
Warning: Never recycle waste binder solution. The waste is contaminated with powder and use of this
liquid in the printer will clog the internal plumbing system and the print head.
4.2.10 Place the Printer Online
1. Press the Online button.
2. The green online indicator light illuminates.

3. The printer is ready to print.
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Setup The Build In ZPrint
This chapter explains how to setup a build in ZPrint, check the 3D Print Settings, and print. For more information about the features available in ZPrint, please refer to the ZPrint Software Manual.
For information and guidance on software features, please contact the Z Corporation Service Department
at (781) 852-5050, toll-free at (877) 88-ZCORP or via email at service@zcorp.com.
PLEASE NOTE: Verify that ZPrint is installed on the computer that is dedicated to the printer. If
needed, installation instructions can be found in the ZPrint Software Manual.
5.1 Open or Import a File

1. Launch ZPrint. The Open dialog appears. Highlight a file you wish to open and click Open, or doubleclick on the file.
2. Choose the display units for the part and click Next.
3. The file will be brought into ZPrint and sliced. To open additional files in the same build, choose File >
Import.
5.2 Part Orientation

5.2.1
Parts Containing an Opening or Hollow Area
If the part has an opening or is hollow, place the open or hollow side of the part so that it is facing upward.
This will allow for easier removal of powder during the depowder process.
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Part with
Opening
Hollow Part
5.2.2
Parts Containing Overhangs
Unsupported overhangs should be placed on the left-hand side of the build box. Generate a Fixture underneath the overhanging surfaces to reduce any movement of the overhang during printing. For information
on generating Fixtures, refer to the ZPrint Software Manual.
Cylindrical features are most accurate when they are parallel to the Z-Axis. For example, if you were to
print a bottle, the bottle should be printed standing up, with the mouth of the bottle facing the top of the
printer.
2.0
1.4
5.3 Check The Build Settings

ALWAYS check build settings before printing.
1. Select File > 3D Print Setup (or select
on the Toolbar).
2. Check the Printer selection, Powder Type, and the Layer Thickness for the build are correct in the
3D Print Setup dialog. Be sure the correct powder type is selected and that it matches the powder
type currently being used in the printer.
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3. It is strongly recommended that you run Collision Detection (if more than one part is being printed, or
you are printing a part with a Fixture) before starting the build. Collision Detection is found on the
ZPrint View menu.
5.3.1
Collision Detection will scan through each layer of the build and report those layers in which the
part is found to be overlapping or touching another part, or the Fixture. Adjust the build settings if a
collision is reported. For parts with Fixtures, this will likely mean adjusting the Fixture Clearance
value to a higher number. For builds containing multiple parts, use ZPrint to adjust the part positions so they are not overlapping or touching. In both cases, rerun Collision Detection until you
get the No Collision Found! message.
Print the Build
It is strongly recommended that the build settings be confirmed before printing. To check build settings,
choose File > 3D Print Setup, or click on the 3D Print Setup icon located on the Toolbar.
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After all of your build settings are confirmed:

1. Choose File > 3D Print , or click the 3D Print Setup icon on the Toolbar.
2. A dialog appears prompting you to check the powder and fluid levels.
3. Press OK to confirm that these have been checked.
4. Once the build has begun, the Printing dialog will appear and report the status of the build, from start
to completion.
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Post-Processing
Post-Processing
This chapter explains how to remove a part from the printer, how to remove excess powder by depowdering, and introduces the use of infiltration materials.
For information and guidance on Infiltration materials, please contact the Z Corporation Service Department at (781) 852-5050, toll-free at (877) 88-ZCORP or via email at service@zcorp.com.
1. Allow the part to dry in the machine using

one of these recommended times.
With specialty material parts (unless otherwise specified), wait approximately ten
to fifteen minutes to ensure that the
uppermost layers of the part have had a
chance to dry.
For parts made with High Performance

Composite materials, leave the part in
the bed for approximately 30-60 minutes. Keep the printer top cover closed
with the heater running to help dry the
part.
2. Take the machine Offline by pressing the

Online button.
3. Lift the printer top cover.
4. Press the Feed DOWN button to lower the
feed piston.
WARNING: When performing any vacuuming operation, use the vacuum provided as
part of the printer. Vacuuming powder can
generate static electricity, and use of a nongrounded vacuum hose will create static
charges, which may affect the operation of
the printer and harm the operator.
5. Place a tray on the top of the feed area.
6. Take a moment to look at the computer
screen and determine exactly where parts lie
in the build box.
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Post-Processing
7. At the printer, without raising the build piston, begin vacuuming powder out of the
build box. Hold the end of the hose on a 20
to 30 degree angle over the powder so the
hose inlet is 1/4" to 3/8" above the surface of
the powder. This generates enough of a
draft to lift loose powder without damaging
the parts.
8. Vacuum powder away from the buried parts,

and clean powder out of the margins against
the walls of the build box.
9. To gain access to the sides of the parts,
raise the build piston by holding the Build
UP button.
10. Remove the part or build plate and place on
the tray. The part is now ready to be fine
depowdered.
11. Vacuum off any remaining powder on the
printer deck.
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Post-Processing
6.1 Depowder the Part
1. Place parts inside the depowder station.
2. Turn on the vacuum cleaner.
3. Turn on the air compressor.

Technical Tip
The air pressure on your depowdering
station is adjustable. For bulky parts,
turn the air pressure up. For more delicate parts, turn the air pressure down.
Always test the air pressure against
your hand first before applying to a
part.
4. Change the air pressure as needed
and check the pressure with your hand
before applying air to the part.
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Post-Processing
5. Remove the excess powder from the

part.
6.2 Using the External Vacuum Bag Liner

Z Corporation has developed an accessory to the vacuum cleaner to assist the user with the removal of
the vacuum bag from the canister. The vacuum cleaner liner is easy to use and will prevent ripping and
tearing of the blue vacuum bag once it is full of powder. The vacuum cleaner liner is placed in the vacuum
canister prior to the bag, and once the bag is full, the liner handles are used to lift the bag out of the canister.
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Post-Processing
1. Start with the empty vacuum canister.
2. Place the vacuum cleaner liner into the

empty canister, being sure the cutout in
the liner goes around the vacuum inlet.
3. Install the vacuum bag inside the vacuum cleaner liner.
4. Fold the handles of the vacuum cleaner

liner up onto the top of the empty vacuum bag.
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Post-Processing
5. Install the vacuum filter.
6. Install the vacuum motor.
7. Once the vacuum bag is full, remove

the motor and filter. Remove the vacuum bag from the canister by lifting the
vacuum cleaner liner handles straight
up.
8. Rotate the vacuum canister, in the

direction of the inlet, from under the
vacuum bag.
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Post-Processing
9. Once the vacuum cleaner inlet tube is

disengaged from the vacuum bag, you
can lift and remove the bag and liner.
6.3 Dry the Part

Drying times and part wall thicknesses are directly related. If the average wall thickness is (6.35 mm),
then the part should be in the drying oven for 30 minutes. If average wall thickness is (12.7 mm) inch,
the part should be in the drying oven for 45 minutes. Use the chart below as a general guide.
Average Wall Thickness
1/8 inch (3.175 mm)
1/4 inch (6.35 mm)
1/2 inch (12.7 mm)
1 inch or greater (25.4 mm)
Drying Time
15 minutes
30 minute
45 minutes
90 minutes
For instructions on how to use the ZW4 or ZW3 Waxing Systems, please refer to the respective products
user manual.
6.4 Post-Processing Tools

There are six tools included in the Accessories kit that are used for gross depowdering and cleaning powder off of the part.
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Post-Processing
Wide Blade Utility Scraper: This part is extremely useful in moving powder from the build chamber or
deck surface back into the feed chamber, so it can be reused.
Polypropylene Scraper: When gross depowdering a bulky part, such as the engine block, the user may
choose to carve powder away from the part instead of moving it away with either the vacuum or their
hands.
Soft Horsehair Brush: This brush has very soft bristles and assists the user with the gross depowdering
process. Gently brushing powder away from the part is a useful technique prior to the vacuuming step.
Stiff Detailing Brush: This brush has very stiff bristles, which are useful for scrubbing caked powder out
of tight areas of a part. The brush is also very helpful when removing fringing from color part surfaces.
Stiff Handle Brush: This tool serves the same purpose as the Stiff Detailing Brush but is slightly larger
and is more useful when working with a larger surface area.
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Post-Processing
Soft Acid Brush: This part can also be used to remove caked powder from hard to reach areas and the
soft bristles make this brush perfect for delicate features.
6.5 Infiltrate the Part

All parts can be infiltrated with a variety of Z Corp. materials to produce a range of material properties. As
an early stage design tool, it may not be necessary to infiltrate printed parts at all. However, the true versatility of 3D Printing is derived from the wide spectrum of material properties that are achieved by applying
an infiltrant to a printed part. For additional information on how Z Corp. customers are utilizing our full line
of infiltration products, call us at Z Corporation, or visit our 3DP User Group website at www.3dpuser.com.
The website has a variety of application and technical tips that describe the many ways that our infiltration
products can benefit your 3D Printing operation.
6.6 Using Z-Max Epoxy

Z-Max epoxy is a high-strength epoxy infiltration system specifically formulated for Z Corporation. Z-Max
epoxy is a low viscosity, high strength, infiltration system designed to work on all of Z Corporations printers. Printed parts infiltrated with Z-Max epoxy are easily sanded and are surface machinable. For best
results always oven dry parts made with High Performance Composite materials at temperatures no
greater than 65C (170F). Oven drying will yield consistently stronger parts and deeper surface penetration when the epoxy is applied.
6.6.1
Safety Precautions
Read the Material Safety Data Sheet for Z-Max epoxy prior to using.
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Wear a lab coat, gloves (we recommend PVC Examination Gloves), face shield, or goggles. A
face shield is required when spraying Z-Max. Always apply in a ventilated hood.
Use specialized containers recommended for dispensing and application. Use a system for catching spills: catch pan, waxed paper, or plastic drop cloth.
Label disposal materials.
Wear a dust mask when sanding finished parts.
6.6.2
Mixing Instructions
It is recommended that you mix only what you need. Mix 100 parts Z-Max Resin to 37 parts Z-Max
Hardener by weight or 100 parts Z-Max Resin to 41 parts Z-Max Hardener by volume. Mix the two
parts thoroughly for two minutes before application. The material has a working time of 35 minutes in
a 425 gram mass. Please be aware of the gel time while preparing quantities of material. The gel time
decreases as the quantity of material increases.
6.6.3
6.6.4
General Application
Material can be brushed or sprayed.
Material will penetrate the surface between 0.079- 0.28 (2 - 7 mm).
Do not over apply the material, as it will pool off the part during curing.
Better surface penetration depth is achieved by applying several light coats of material.
Allow all mixed materials to cure prior to disposal.
Spraying Instructions
Use a Gravity Feed High Volume/Low Pressure (HVLP) Sprayer. We recommend a DeVilbiss Sprayer with
14 - 18 mm tip. The DeVilbiss Sprayer is available from Z Corp. with disposable canister liners and will
minimize the amount of cleanup.
1. Have the sprayer, parts and materials ready before mixing Z-Max.
2. Mix Z-Max and pour into the disposable liner in the sprayer canister.
3. Always spray in a vented hood. Spray Z-Max between 15 - 20 psi (1 - 1.4 bar).
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4. When finished, remove the disposable liner and clean the sprayer with a mild solvent, such as isopropyl alcohol or acetone.
5. Remove the tip and thoroughly clean by hand to avoid build up. (Cleanup takes approximately 15 minutes).
6.6.5
Curing Information
Allow the part to cure for 1 hour at room temperature prior to placing in the oven for accelerated
cure to avoid discoloration due to exothermic reaction.
Z-Max will cure at an accelerated rate in a ventilated oven. The oven must be vented. At 160F
(71C), a part will reach full strength in 2 hours. (Ventilation designs need to meet each customers
respective governmental health and safety requirements. A reference frequently used by U.S.
firms to comply with OSHA regulations is the American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists Industrial Ventilation Manual.)
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Wear gloves when handling the parts when they are still at an elevated temperature. Parts will
attain full strength and be safe to handle once they cool to room temperature.
The part should be placed on a non-stick, (wax paper, Teflon, etc.) material or it will adhere to the
surface it is sitting on while curing.
Z-Max will cure at room temperature after 24 hours.
6.6.6
Painting Parts
Parts can be painted to enhance surface finish and appearance. Z Corp recommends coating all surfaces with Dupont Fill N Sand Acrylic Primer-Surfacer #131S, a lacquer-based primer ideal for improving the adhesion of most paints. This material can be purchased at most autobody supply stores.
6.7 Using Z-Bond Cyanoacrylate

Z-Bond cyanoacrylate is an extremely fast setting, low viscosity, general-purpose infiltrant. This product is
designed to rapidly strengthen parts. Z-Bond is a one part, user-friendly, no-odor, non-blooming product
that eliminates the need for special ventilation. It is easily sanded and enhances the vibrancy of color
parts. Z-Bond 11 (which can be used with the specialty materials) is available in 0.5 lb bottles and Z-Bond
101 (which can be used with our High Performance Composite materials) is available in 3.5 ounce bottles
and 24 ounce spray bottles. Read the Z-Bond User Guide to learn more.
6.7.1
Safety Precautions
Do not use or handle this product until the Material Safety Data Sheet has been read and understood.
Wear a lab coat, gloves (we recommend Nitrile Examination Gloves), face shield, or goggles.
Always apply in a ventilated hood.
Use specialized containers recommended for dispensing and application. Use a system for catching spills: Catch pan, waxed paper, or plastic drop cloth.
Label disposal materials.
Wear a dust mask when sanding finished parts.
6.7.2
General Application
Part should be fully dried before applying Z-Bond. Resin reacts with water and produces heat. If
the part is not dried, it will heat up the part and produce a gas that may be irritating to the mucous
membranes.
Z-Bond can be dipped or drizzled.
Z-Bond will penetrate between 0.08 - 0.12 inches (23 mm).
Do not over apply Z-Bond, as it will pool off the part during the cure cycle.
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6.7.3
Post-Processing
Curing Information
The part should be placed on a non-stick material (wax paper, Teflon, etc.) or it will adhere to the
surface it is sitting on while curing.
Wear gloves when handling the parts to avoid contact with uncured Z-Bond.
Parts will attain full strength in two to fifteen minutes.
6.7.4
Tips
Always infiltrate the most delicate features of the part first. Z-Bond gives almost immediate
strength to the area of the part that has been infiltrated. When you handle the areas of the part that
have been infiltrated, they will be less likely to break.
Try to avoid infiltrating the part by applying Z-Bond from spot to spot. Pick a good starting place
hold that area upward relative to the rest of the part. With your free hand, place the tip of the ZBond bottle against the part and allow the cyanoacrylate (CA) to flow from the bottle. It is important that the CA flows at a uniform rate to see how quickly it wicks into the part. By seeing how
quickly it wicks into the part, you will be able to judge where and how quickly to move the tip of the
bottle when applying, being sure not to apply the CA to the same place more than once.
6.8 Using Paraplast X-TRA Wax

Paraplast X-TRA is a low viscosity, general purpose, infiltration wax formulated to melt at very low temperatures (122F or 50C) and to strengthen both starch and plaster powder parts. Wax cures rapidly and
enhances the vibrancy of color parts. Paraplast is available in a case of eight 2.2 lb. (1 kilogram) chips.
6.8.1
Safety Precautions
Liquid wax is hot and can cause burns. Follow all recommended safety precautions for your Z
Corp. Wax Unit.
Wear appropriate gloves when handling hot parts.
6.8.2
General Application
Parts should be dried in an oven at 100F (38C) prior to infiltrating with wax for deeper surface
penetration.
If the part is bulky, you may preheat it at 150F (66C) for up to 30 minutes.
Soak part in liquid wax tank (follow all tank manufacturers instructions).
Remove infiltrated part from waxer.
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Place part in an oven at 150F (66C) until the wax has penetrated or melted off your part (usually
around 15 minutes).
Be aware that these are simple guidelines. Your specific applications may require additional steps.
6.8.3
Curing Information
Allow the part to cool after removal from the oven until it is no longer warm to the touch.
Click the following links to learn about:
Casting Methods
Electroplating
Finite Element Analysis
Functional Testing of Molded Plastic Parts
Creating High Finsh Color Parts
Painting
RTV Molding
Thermoforming
Tough Durable Parts
Water Transfer
Water Resistant High-Strength Parts
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Material Systems
Material Systems
This chapter provides material storage information, and instructions on how to use the ZCast and ZSnap materials. It describes temporary changes to the printer and the ZPrint software settings required
to build parts successfully with ZCast or Z-Snap Epoxy.
IMPORTANT - NEW MATERIALS ARE AVAILABLE!
NEW High Performance Composite materials are now available for the ZPrinter 310 Plus. These include
the zp130, zp131, and zp140 powders and their respective binders. Check the 3DP User Website for new
powder/binder releases. The User Website also has free User Guides for zp131 and zp140 available for
dowload, as well as other application and technical tips available for using all Z Corporation products.
For information and guidance or additional questions, please contact the Z Corporation Service Department at (781) 852-5050, toll-free at (877) 88-ZCORP or via email at service@zcorp.com.
7.1 Material Storage Precautions

Carefully read the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) before using any Z Corporation materials.
Material
Storage
Usage
Powder
Store powder on pallets in a cool, dry, ventilated area away from sources of heat,
moisture, and incompatible materials.
Keep containers tightly closed.
Use of powder in environments with more than

30% relative humidity will
affect powder performance.
Binder and Wash

Fluid
Store in cool, dry place, away from sun.

Keep tightly capped.
Binder is NOT recyclable.
Printhead
Store in cool, dry place, unopened, away

from sun.
Infiltrants
Store in cool, dry place, away from sun.

Keep tightly capped.
For more information,

visit the 3DP User website at:
www.3dpuser.com.
7.2 Using ZCast Powder

7.2.1
General Information
ZCast powder is a plaster-ceramic composition that allows you to print sand casting-like molds and/or
cores with your Z Corp. printer. Once printed, depowdered and baked, you have the ability to immediately
pour molten metal, yielding a cast metal part. Arguably, the ZCast process is the fastest and most direct
way to obtain a metal part from digital data. ZCast has been optimized for non-ferrous materials ranging
from zinc to brass, including aluminum and magnesium.
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Material Systems
WARNING: NEVER POUR MAGNESIUM without first contacting a Z Corporation technical representative. NEVER ATTEMPT TO POUR FERROUS METALS IN ZCAST MOLDS.
On the User Website, you will find a detailed document entitled ZCast Direct Metal Casting - Design Guide
for additional information. Please review the guide along with safety issues before using this product. Upon
review, contact the Z Corporation Applications Team for information about a free online training session
by sending an email entitled ZCast Online Training Seminar to applications@zcorp.com. Be sure to include
preferred meeting times. The session is approximately one hour.
7.3 Using ZCast With Your ZPrinter 310 Plus

7.3.1
Temporarily Remove the Scraper Blade When Using ZCast
When using ZCast powder on the printer, the scraper blade must be removed. Failure to remove the
scraper blade while using ZCast will result in excessive wear on the scraper blade and will require replacement. The entire activity should take less than ten minutes and requires two hex wrenches. Remember to
reinstall the scraper blade when printing with ZCast is complete. Follow the instructions below to remove
the scraper blade.
1. Turn off the power and unplug the

printer.
2. Slide the gantry to the middle of the
print area.
3. Remove the cable enclosure cover by

unscrewing the two screws on the top
of the enclosure.
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4. Remove the cable enclosure.
5. Disconnect the ribbon cable.
6. Disconnect the head power card.
7. Twist and disconnect fluid supply tubing.
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8. Remove the snowplow from the front of

the spreader roller. Slide the snowplow
away from the edge of the build box
until it disengages from the retaining
tab. Press on the top edge of the snowplow until it pops off the spreader roller.
9. Repeat Step 8 for the snowplow

located at the back of the spreader
roller.
10. Using the 3/16 hex wrench, remove the

mounting screw located on the right
side of the motor assembly.
11. Pivot the front of the printer module up

while lifting from the rear and remove.
Place the printer module on a flat area.
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12. Using the 3/32 hex wrench, remove the

three hex screws holding the scraper
blade retainer and scraper blade onto
the printer module.
One screw is located in the front
Two are in the back (underneath

the roller bearing).
13. Replace the printer module onto the

printer.
14. Tighten the mounting screws on both

sides of the motor assembly.
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15. Replace the snowplows to the front and

back of the roller.
16. Reconnect the fluid line, ribbon cable,

and head card power cable.
17. Replace the cable enclosure and

tighten up the both screws on top of the
enclosure.
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Material Systems
18. Using the syringe provided in the Toolkit, place the tube fitting onto the septum, and slowly draw binder through
the fluid system until no bubbles are
present in the binder tube.
USE NO OIL Label.
Detail of syringe tube fitting over septum.
7.3.2
Load ZCast Powder
1. Remove all non-ZCast powder from the feed piston, build piston, and overflow bucket.
2. Fill the piston completely with ZCast powder being sure to keep the casting powder fluffy. Use
the tamper to level off the top of the feed piston but do not pack the powder.
7.3.3
Spread Over The Build Bed and Print
DO NOT pack the casting powder. Packing the casting powder into the feed piston increases the density of the powder at the feed piston plate and increases the gripping force that ZCast powder has on
the sidewalls of the feed piston.
7.3.4
Set Up ZCast Builds
Take into consideration part orientation verses strength tradeoffs and use Fixtures to control the
reduced effects of squash. For more information, please refer to the ZCast Direct Metal Casting
Design Guide.
7.3.5
Post-Processing
Unlike other Z Corp. parts, ZCast parts require no infiltration. However, ZCast molds must be thoroughly baked in a vented oven at sufficient temperatures to burn out organic materials. Additionally,
the user may apply a core wash solution to improve the surface finish of the casting. See the ZCast
Direct Metal Casting Design Guide for bake temperatures, times and additional information.
WARNING: If using a build plate, remove the part from the build plate before placing in the oven. Failure to do so will damage the build plate.
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7.3.6
Material Systems
Recycling
Similar to plaster and starch, ZCast can be recycled. Recycle only powder that is unprinted and free of
moisture as bonded or printed material will degrade printing performance.
7.3.7
Storage
ZCast powder should be stored in a cool, dry environment. See container labels for additional information.
7.3.8
Disposal
ZCast powder is a non-toxic substance. Please consult the Material Safety Data Sheet for product
details. Dispose of ZCast powder according to local and state regulations.
7.3.9
Questions and Support
If you have any questions regarding this product, contact the Z Corporation Applications Team for
technical support at (781) 852-5050 or via email at applications@zcorp.com.
7.4 Using Z-Snap Epoxy

Z-Snap epoxy is a flexible, yet tough epoxy infiltration system specifically formulated for Z Corporation for
use with our zp250 powder. Parts made from zp250 powder and infiltrated with Z-Snap epoxy exhibit the
appearance and snap-fit characteristics of plastic. Parts are easily sanded and finished. For detailed
instructions on how to use Z-Snap epoxy with zp250 parts see Material Systems.
7.4.1
General Application
All part surfaces should be clean, dry and free of contaminants prior to applying Z-Snap epoxy.
The part should be oven dried for 2 - 4 hours at 150F - 200F (65C - 85C), depending on part
volume and wall thickness, to drive out any excess moisture that remains in the part after depowdering.
Z-Snap epoxy can be sprayed, brushed or drizzled onto parts. Multiple thin coats applied liberally
during the products working time will produce maximum infiltration depth.
7.4.2
Mixing Instructions
In a clean, plastic, non-porous, container mix Z-Snap Resin to Hardener in a 2:1 ratio by volume,
100:47 ratio by weight. Mix the two parts thoroughly for 2 minutes, stirring in a figure eight pattern.
Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the container.
The product has a working time of 85 minutes in a 450 gram mass at room temperature. Mix only
what you need. Please be aware that the mixed solution will increase to a maximum temperature
of 122F (50C) after 40 minutes.
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PLEASE NOTE: The gel time decreases when preparing quantities of Z-Snap greater than 450 grams.
7.4.3
Curing Information
Infiltrated parts should be pre-cured at ambient temperature for 30 minutes.
After the pre-cure time, cure the infiltrated part for 30 more minutes at (120F) 50C and then for 2
hours at (165F) 74C on a non-stick surface (wax paper, Teflon, polyethylene, etc.), or it will
adhere to the surface it is sitting on while curing.
PLEASE NOTE: Z-Snap epoxy should not be cured at temperatures greater than (165-F) 74C and
no longer than 3 hours because flexibility may decrease, making the parts more brittle.
7.4.4
Clean Up
Any remaining mixed infiltrant beyond the working time should be kept in a well-ventilated area to
avoid fumes. Cleaning the spraying apparatus is simple with solvents such as acetone or denatured
alcohol that are found at your local hardware store.
7.4.5
Machine Setup
Remove all powder currently in the printer (feed piston, build piston, overflow bin).
Remove all powder in the depowdering unit and install a new vacuum bag in the vacuum unit.
zb56 binder is the required binder system for zp250 powder. Check to see if the binder solution
currently being used is zb56. If not, replace the current binder with zb56 binder then flush and
purge the fluids system.
Fill the feed piston with zp250 powder.
ZPrinter 310 Plus users may want to use the removable build plate to aid in the removal of the
printed parts. Place the build plate onto the build piston and lower the build piston until the top surface of the build plate is slightly below the surface of the deck of the printer. This will ensure that
the spread roller does not hit the build plate.
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7.4.6
Material Systems
Software Setup
Due to the nature of the open powder matrix of zp250 powder, and its capacity to absorb Z-Snap epoxy
infiltrant, the use of a Fixture is recommended for parts with a wall thickness less than 0.25" (6.35mm). For
a complete explanation of how to use the Make Fixture feature, refer to the ZPrint Software Manual. Fixtures for parts made with zp250 powder should be built with the following parameters:
Clearance
Top Surface Thickness
Wall Thickness
Distance Between Wall by X
Distance Between Wall by Y
Accuracy Coefficient
0.125" 0.25" (3.175 6.35 mm)

0.1" 0.25" (2.54 6.35 mm)
0.1" 0.25" (2.54 6.35 mm)
0.5" 1.0" (12.7 25.4 mm)
0.5" 1.0" (12.7 25.4 mm)
High enough to avoid collisions between the part and the
Fixture (e.g. 8)
If you want to change the default Fixture settings in the Make Fixture dialog, select Settings > General
Preferences > Fixture tab. Enter new values, and click OK. The new defaults will appear in the Make Fixture dialog.
To generate a Fixture, first raise the part in ZPrint on the Z-Axis to at least 0.5" (12.7 mm) from the bottom
of the build plate. If the part is not raised enough, it may not be fully supported by the Fixture after depowdering.
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Select File > 3D Print Setup and choose zp250 as the powder type. Click OK.
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7.4.7
Material Systems
Part Removal and Post Processing
1. When printing parts that can be manually handled, allow the part and Fixture to dry in the build bed
for 2 hours before removing. Parts with large unsupported overhangs that are difficult to manually
handle without breaking should be left on the Fixture. Remove as much powder as possible from
the top and side surfaces while the part is on the Fixture. Lightly infiltrate the exposed top surfaces of the part with Z-Snap. DO NOT apply too much infiltrant. You want to prevent the infiltrant
from wicking through to the bottom side of the part. Cure the part for one hour at 165F (74C). Do
not place on the build plate.
For more information, please contact one of our applications engineers at applications@zcorp.com.
Parts built deeper than 2 inches (50.8 mm) into the build box may require longer drying time before
handling. If the removable build plate was used, the part can be gross depowdered and removed
prior to two hours and placed in an oven at 150F (66C) for at least 2 hours or longer depending
on the mass/volume of the part.
2. If a Fixture was used during the printing process it should also be used during the infiltration and
curing steps as well.
3. Depowder the part and the Fixture.
4. Remove the part and Fixture from the build plate and place it on a clean surface. Now separate the
part from the Fixture.
5. Apply a silicone mold release (such as IMS Paintable Neutral Oil Mold Release www.imscompany.com or Hapco GREASE-IT FDG - www.hapcoweb.com) liberally onto the top surface of the
Fixture where the part will make contact with the Fixture. Doing this prevents the infiltrated part
from adhering to the Fixture during infiltration.
6. Gently apply Z-Snap epoxy to the bottom surface of the part and carefully place the part back onto
the Fixture.
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7. Apply Z-Snap epoxy to the rest of the part. Do not apply excess epoxy as pooling will occur. Several thin coats are better than one thick coat. Use a paper towel to remove excess epoxy that may
have pooled on the surface of the part.
8. Z-Snap parts should sit for 30 minutes at room temperature to allow excess epoxy to drain or wick
into the Fixture.
9. For Z-Snap epoxy, place the part with its Fixture into an oven for 30 minutes at 120F (49C). This
step reduces the occurrence of bubbling or pooling.
10. Parts infiltrated with Z-Snap epoxy should then be cured for an additional two hours in the oven at
165F (74C). Do not place on the build plate.
11. Let the part sit for 30 minutes at room temperature to cool before handling.
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Maintenance and the Service Menu
This chapter covers routine maintenance steps and procedures that are recommended to keep the printer
operating in optimal condition. It includes procedures on changing the print head, when to oil/not oil the
Fast Axis, filling the wash fluid reservoir, and greasing the Slow Axis and Piston Screws. It also explains
the process of changing binder fluid and bleeding air from the binder line.
The ZPrint Service menu is the primary interface from the computer desktop when performing routine
maintenance functions on the printer. On the ZPrint Settings > General Preferences > General tab, be
sure to enable the Activate Maintenance Reminder option to have ZPrint prompt you to perform occasional maintenance on certain printer components.
For information and guidance on additional maintenance steps, please contact the Z Corporation Service
Department at (781) 852-5050, toll-free at (877) 88-ZCORP or via email at service@zcorp.com.
8.1 Unpark
Unpark moves the printer Carriage from its parked position in the Service Station. When the Upark command is performed, the user can manually move the gantry and carriage in order to perform routine cleaning.
8.2 Change Print Head

Signs of a worn print head are weak parts, rough surface finish, or visibly uneven printing in the build.
ZPrint will display a warning message when the print head will exceed the expected print head life during
the build. A print head should be able to print at least 1.2 liters of binder (about 30 Billion pixels, equivalent
to about 2500 cubic centimeters of parts). Print head life can depend upon the geometry of the parts
printed, so some print heads may last longer.
Technical Tip
If you fill the binder tank when you change the print head, you will not have to fill it again until the next
time you change the print head.
1. Select Service > Change Print Head in

ZPrint. Press Start to begin the process.
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2. Wait for Carriage to unpark, then open the

Carriage cover by sliding the latch back to
disengage.
3. Remove the print head by lifting the handle

and pulling directly up.
4. Take an alcohol crush tube swab and thoroughly wipe the pogo pins clean.
Pogo Pins
Alcohol Crush Tube Swab
Septum
5. Place the new print head in the Carriage

and push down to seat the print head. The
print head should seat firmly in the Carriage.
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6. Close the Carriage cover and press on it

until it clicks to ensure the cover is properly
secured.
8. Press Online on the printer control panel
or click Done in ZPrint.
9. Follow the steps in 8.3 to purge the new
print head of its black ink.
8.3 Purge Print Heads

New print heads must be purged to remove the black ink.
1. Fill up the Binder bottle.
2. Make sure the Waste bottle is empty.
3. Choose Service > Purge Print Head. When the purge cycle is completed, the printer stops beeping.
4. Press the Online button on the printer.
Tip
You can continue purging the print head even if you need to work in another ZPrint dialog box. Click
the X located on the upper right-hand corner of the dialog box to close it. DO NOT click the Done or
Cancel button.
8.4 Check Powder Level

Select Check Powder Level to check if the printer has enough powder in the feed piston to complete the
current build.
8.5 Drop Feed Piston

Select Drop Feed Piston to drop the feed piston to its lowest position. Use the Drop Feed Piston command when you need to add additional powder to the printer or when you need to gross depowder a part.
8.6 Fill Bed

Select Fill Bed to fill the build bed with powder prior to printing. This is the equivalent of selecting Fill Bed
on the printer control panel.
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8.7 Preheat Printer

Select Preheat Printer to heat the Printer to the proper temperature before printing. Preheating the printer
will add more time to your overall print time.
8.8 Maintenance
Select Maintenance to have ZPrint remind you when it is time to lubricate the Fast and Slow Axis rails, to
lubricate the piston screws, or to refill the wash fluid. See Section 8.8.2 - When to Oil/Not Oil the Fast Axis
for important information when you are prompted in ZPrint to Lube Axis Rails.
Sections 8.8.1 - 8.8.9 describes each maintenance procedure for the printer. Follow the instructions in this
section to properly perform printer maintenance.
8.8.1
Clean The Pogo Pins
In general, clean the pogo pins whenever you replace or remove the print head. Doing this will reduce
errors in communication between the print head and the printer (such as Head ROM errors).
To clean the pogo pins, follow these instructions:
1. Use an alcohol swab, which can be

ordered from Z Corporation.
2. Remove the alcohol swab from the packaging.
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3. Crush the plastic casing to release alcohol

into the swab.
4. Open the Carriage cover.
5. Remove the print head.
6. Wipe the pogo pins with the swab.

7. Reinsert the print head and close the Carriage cover.
8.8.2
When To Oil/Not Oil 310 Fast Axis Assemblies
ZPrinter 310s manufactured after September 2006 and the Fast Axis Assemblies rebuilt/manufactured after this same date, DO NOT require oiling of the Fast Axis rails or bearings. This is the result of
changing the bearings on the Fast Axis to those that do not require oil.
The carriage of these new units and assemblies carries a prominent USE NO OIL label on the Carriage
assembly. Oiling units with this label may cause them to malfunction. If oil is applied by accident, you
should wipe it off completely with a paper towel before operating the printer.
If your carriage has the USE NO OIL label, ZPrint will still prompt you to lubricate your printer axis rails.
Grease the Slow Axis in the usual way (see Section 8.8.5), but DO NOT oil the Fast Axis. To close the dialog, click Dismiss. When the prompt Did you lube Axis Rails? appears, click Yes to close the prompt to
reset the maintenance counters.
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IMPORTANT!
If your ZPrinter 310 was manufactured before September 2006, ZPrint will prompt you when it is time
to oil the Fast Axis, provided the maintenance reminder feature is enabled on the ZPrint Settings > General Preferences > General tab. Do not oil the Fast Axis unless prompted to in ZPrint.
Fast Axis lubrication is required only for ZPrinter 310 machines with the old Fast Axis assemblies like the
one shown below, (no label is covering the bearings). If your machine has an older Fast Axis assembly, follow the instructions in Section 8.8.3 when ZPrint prompts you to lubricate the Fast Axis.
8.8.3
Fast Axis Rails and Bearings Lubrication
1. Select Service > Unpark.

2. Take the printer offline by pressing the
Online button on the 310 control panel and
lift the printer top cover.
3. Manually move the gantry to the middle of

the printer.
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4. Apply a very small amount of oil on a paper

towel.
5. Locate any residue buildup on the Fast Axis

rails.
6. Wipe both of the fast axis rails with the paper

towel to remove the residue. Make sure to
move the carriage and wipe the back of the
rail.
7. To oil the bearings, place the tip of the oil

bottle into a fitting. Apply oil for 1 (one) second to the bearing. Repeat for the second
bearing. DO NOT OVER OIL! If any excess
oil flows out of either fitting, wipe up the
excess with a dry paper towel.
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8.8.4
Refill the Wash Fluid Reservoir
Refill the wash fluid reservoir with zc10 wash fluid when alerted by the software, or refill if the wick on the
service station has dried out. One bottle of wash fluid will fill up the entire reservoir. ZPrint will prompt you
when it is time to refill the wash fluid when the maintenance reminder feature is enabled on the ZPrint Settings > General Preferences > General tab. Do not refill the reservoir unless prompted to in ZPrint.

2. Take the printer Offline.
3. Lift the printer top cover and manually

move the gantry to expose the Service Station.
4. Remove the red wash fluid reservoir cap.
5. Refill the reservoir using the wash fluid

supplied in the Toolbox. One bottle will fill
up the reservoir. Remember to reorder
zc10 Wash Fluid.
7. Place the printer Online.
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8. Click OK in the ZPrint Unpark dialog to

repark the gantry.
8.8.5
Slow Axis Lubrication
The Slow Axis will need to be greased occasionally to prevent slow axis errors. When the Maintenance
Reminder feature is enabled on the ZPrint Settings > General Preferences > General tab, ZPrint will
prompt you when it is time to grease the Slow Axis. Do not grease the Slow Axis unless prompted to in
ZPrint.
1. If this is the first time greasing the Slow Axis,

assemble the grease gun included with the
printer toolbox. Follow the instructions on the
packaging.
2. Release the power cord from the cord clip at
the bottom of the printer back cover.
Remove the printer back cover by removing
the seven screws.
3. Locate the two grease fittings on the Slow

Axis.
Grease Fitting
4. Snap the grease coupler onto the fittings.

Grease Fitting
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Grease Input
Bearing
5. Add grease until it begins to come out the

side of the bearing (typically two pulls on the
trigger). Wipe any excess grease off the
bearing with a dry paper towel.
6. Clean any powder that has been deposited
on the back of the top deck.
7. Replace the printer back cover.
8. Store grease gun for future use.
8.8.6
Piston Screws Lubrication
ZPrint will prompt you when the build and feed pistons need to be greased provided the Maintenance
Reminder feature is enabled on the ZPrint Settings > General Preferences > General tab. Do not grease
the pistons unless prompted to in ZPrint.
1. Lower both the feed and build pistons all the

way down.
2. Turn Off and unplug the printer.
3. Remove the overflow bucket and locate the
two piston screws.
4. Take the grease tube supplied in the Toolkit

and apply grease to the entire length of both
feed and build piston screws.
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5. Take a paper towel and lightly wipe the feed

and build piston screws in order to distribute
grease.
6. Replace the overflow bucket.
7. Plug in the printer and then turn the printer
On. Raise and lower the feed and build pistons a couple of times to work in the grease
and then return both pistons to their proper
positions.
8.8.7
Change the Binder Tank
At times, you may choose to change the binder in your printer. You can use a second binder tank to facilitate the changeover procedure.
1. Carefully lift and move the binder bottle

towards the front of the printer.
2. Press the release latch and pull the tubing

out.
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3. Insert the tubing into the latch from the new

binder bottle and secure the binder bottle in
place on top cover.
4. Perform the Bleed Air procedure to remove
old binder and air from the binder line. See
Section 8.8.9 for instructions.
5. Purge or change the print head to flush the
remaining old binder from the printer.
8.8.8
Change the Binder Color
Add the following mixtures of color binder to the printer feed bottle (3/4 full with clear binder) to achieve
your desired color. These ratios are based on the 1.5 liters of clear binder in the feed bottle prior to adding
any color. Please review the following chart for quantities.
Qua ntity of Color Binde r Adde d to Fe e d
Bottle w ith Cle a r Binde r
Desired Color
Cyan
Magenta
Yellow
Black
Red
18 Squirts 9 Squirts
Magenta
18 Squirts
Orange
Yellow
18 Squirts
Green
3 Squirts
12 Squirts
Blue
Violet
Gray
6-12 Squirts
Hold the color binder bottle, with pump attached, up to the opening of the printer feed bottle and add the
desired amount of color binder. Each full squirt is approximately one ounce of binder.
Darker or lighter shades of colors can be achieved by adding more or less of the corresponding desired
color ratio (pink can be achieved by cutting the quantity of total color binder added by two). The final color
will be more vibrant after infiltration.
IMPORTANT: Higher concentrations of color binder than those stated above will reduce print head life
(less than 30 billion pixels). The reduction of print head life will lead to head over temp errors and color
striping on printed parts.
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8.8.9
Bleed Air from the Binder Line
If air gets into the binder line due to inadequate supply of binder, or by removing the binder bottle, then the
air must be bled out to prevent damage to the print head.

2. Lift the printer top cover.
3. Open the Carriage cover to expose the print

head.
4. Remove the print head.
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5. Insert the syringe tube fitting over the septum and remove the air and approximately
10 ccs of binder.
USE NO OIL Label.
Detail of syringe tube fitting over septum.
6. When finished, re-insert the print head, close

the Carriage cover, close the printer top
cover, and click OK on the Unpark dialog to
repark the gantry.
8.9 Service Print Head

(Shortcut Key: F3) Select to service the print head if it is not printing well.
8.10 Stripe Test

Select to print a stripe test to check the functionality of the print heads.
8.11 Toggle Roller On/Off

(Shortcut Key: F4) Select to independently access the roller for easy cleaning.
8.12 Check Status

(Shortcut Key: F1) Select to check the status of how much powder is in the Feed Piston, of how much
room is remaining in the Build Box, and to see which version of the ZPrint Firmware you are running.
8.13 Print Head Report

Select to view a report of the number of pixels printed, temperature levels, and flow rates for the current
print heads.
8.14 View Printer Log

Select to view a report of the number of pixels printed, temperature levels, and flow rates for the current
print heads.
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8.15 Upload New Firmware

Select to upgrade the Firmware for your 3D Printer. The Service Department will provide you with the
required upgrades and instructions for installing. You can also check our user Website at
www.3dpuser.com.
8.16 Upload New Printer Configuration

This feature is used during diagnosis. It should only be modified under the instruction of the Z Corporation
Service Department or an authorized Service representative.
8.17 Edit .INI File, Send File and Receive File

This feature is used during diagnosis. It should only be modified under the instruction of the Z Corporation
Service Department or an authorized Service representative.
8.18 Machine Status

If you see an error on the printer LED, press the Online button to recover. If the error is unrecoverable, the
printer will reboot.
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System Details
System Details
This chapter covers some system details and specifications. For more information, please contact the Z
Corporation Service Department at (781)852-5050 or Toll-Free at (877)88-ZCorp. Or, visit the 3DP User
Website at www.3dpuser.com.
9.1 Symbols Used

The following symbols are used on the ZPrinter 310 Plus Printer:
This is the international symbol for Standby Power. It is visible on the printer power switch. The
printer is partially powered as soon as you plug it in. The power switch is a momentary contact
and toggles the machine from idle mode to full power-on mode.
This is the international symbol for Warning or Caution. When it appears on the exterior of the
equipment, it indicates the need to consult the manual or your service provider for further information.
This is the international symbol for Hot Surface. It appears on the exterior of the equipment and
indicates that caution should be used in that area to reduce the risk of injury.
9.2 System Specifications

System Dimensions
32.0 x 29.8 x 43.2 (81 x 76 x 110 cm)
Operating Conditions
68 to 85F (20-29C), 20 to 60% Relative Humidity,

non-condensing.
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Lithium Battery
System Details
Inside the printer is a lithium coin cell type battery.

This may be any one of the following type:
CR2032, either Maxell, Panasonic, Renata,
Sanyo, or Sony.
PLEASE NOTE: This battery is not in a user
accessible area and is not user replaceable.
The expected lifetime of the battery is in
excess of five years. Replacement will be
handled by your authorized service representative.
FCC Notice
Note: This equipment has been tested and found

to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a
residential area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at their own expense.
CENELEC Class A Warning
Note: This equipment has been tested and found

to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to EN 55022. Class A devices
are for office and light industrial environments, and
are not generally suitable for home use.
WARNING
This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause radio interference in
which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
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INDEX
Drop Feed Piston, 63

Dry The Part, 40
Dry Times, Wall Thicknesses, 40
Numerics
3D Print Setup, 31
E
Edit INI File, 75
Empty The Waste Bottle, 29
External Components, 6
External Vacuum Bag Liner, 37
EZ Print Mode, Full Description, 17
Accessories Kit, Tools, 40

Accuracy, 3
B
Back Cover, Removal, 69
Back Panel, 6
Bearings, Fast Axis, 66
Binder Bottle, Removal, 71
Binder Bottle, Refill, 28
Binder Color, Creating, 72
Binder Line, Bleed Air, 73
Binder Tank, Changing, 71
Binder, Warning, 28
Bleed Air
Septum, 74
Syringe, 74
Bleed Air, Procedure, 73
Bleed Compensation, 14
Build Area, Prepare, 24
Build Plate, 24
Build Plate, Removable, 24
Build Settings, Check, 31
F
Fast Axis Bearings, Lubrication, 66
Fast Axis Rails, Lubrication, 66
Fast Axis, Oilling/Not Oilling, 65
Feed Box, Pack With Powder, 24
File, Open Or Import, 30
Fill Bed Command, 63
Fill Bed Operation, 25
Fill Bed Operation, Cancel, 25
Fill Feed Box, 22
Fixture, Clearance, 32
Fixtures, Default Values, 57
Fixtures, Settings, 57
G
Gantry, 7
Gantry, Top View, 7
Gross and Fine Depowder, Tips, 14
Carriage Cover, Close, 63

Change Print Head, Procedure, 61
Change The Binder Color, 72
Changing the Binder Tank, 71
Check Powder Level, 63
Check Status, 74
Check, Build Settings, 31
Clean, Excess Powder, 26
Clean, Parking Cap, 27
Clean, Pogo Pins, 64
Clean, Service Station, 26
Clean, Squeegees, 26
Clearance, Fixture, 32
Collision Detection, 32
Control Panel, 7
Control Panel, Description, 8
Cylindrical Features, Part Orientation, 31
Heater, Top View, 8
I
Import, File, 30
Infiltrate The Part, 42
Infiltration, Part - Quick Start Guide, 15
L
Layer Thickness, 1
Lubrication, Piston Screws, 70
Lubrication, Slow Axis, 69
M
Machine Status, 75
Maintenance, Service Menu, 61
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1
Materials Storage Information, 48
Materials Systems, Description, 48
D
Depowder Station, Labeled, 9
Depowder The Part, 36
Dimensional Tolerances, 14
www.3dpuser.com
Prepare The Build, 22

Prepare The Build Area, 24
Print A Part, Quick Start Guide, 12
Print Head Report, 74
Print Head, Changing Procedure, 61
Print Head, Removal, 62
Print Head, Signs Of Wear, 61
Printer Components, 4
Printer Preparation, Quick Start Guide, 10
Printer Subcomponents, 5
Printer, Place Online, 29
Purge, Print Head, 63
New Materials, 48
O
Online, Place The Printer, 29
Open Dialog, ZPrint, 30
Open, File, 30
Open/Hollow Areas, Part Orientation, 30
Orientation, Part, 30
Oven Dry, Parts - Quick Start Guide, 15
Oven Dry, Quick Start Guide, 15
Overflow Bin, Emptying, 23
Overhangs, Part Orientation, 31
Quick Start Guide, 10
Pack The Feed Box, 24

Parking Cap, Clean, 27
Parking Cap, Dry, 27
Part
Accuracy, 3
Removal, Set Time, 34
Strength, 3
Part Infiltration, Quick Start Guide, 15
Part Orientation, 30
Overhangs, 31
Part Placement, 3
Part Setup, Tips, 14
Part, Depowder, 36
Parts, Containing An Open Or Hollow Area, 30
Parts, Containing Overhangs, 31
Parts, Cylindrical Features, 31
Parts, Dry Times, 40
Parts, Infiltrating, 42
Parts, Post-Processing, 34
Piston Screws, Lubrication, 70
Pogo Pins, Clean, 62
Pogo Pins, How To Clean, 64
Post-Processing Tools, 40
Post-Processing, Parts, 34
Post-Processing, Quick Start Guide, 13
Powder, Recycle, 23
Powder Recycling Station, 9
Powder, Compacting, 24
Powder, Fill The Feed Box, 22
Powder, Pack The Feed Box, 24
Powder, Remove Air From, 24
Powder, Spread, 25
Powder, Tamping, 24
Powder, Vacuum Excess, 26
Power Switch, 22
Preheat Printer, 64
Prepare the 3D Printer, 22
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Rails, Fast Axis Lubrication, 66

Receive File, Service Menu, 75
Refill The Binder Bottle, 28
Refill Wash Fluid, 68
Removable Build Plate, 15, , 24
Removal, Part, Set Time, 34
Remove Air From Powder, 24
Removing A Print Head, 62
S
Scraper Blade, Removal, 49
Send File, Service Menu, 75
Septum, 74
Service Menu, Check Status, 74
Service Menu, Drop Feed Piston, 63
Service Menu, Fill Bed, 63
Service Menu, Preheat Printer, 64
Service Menu, Print Head Report, 74
Service Menu, Service Print Head, 74
Service Menu, Toggle Roller On/Off, 74
Service Menu, View Printer Log, 74
Service Print Head, 74
Service Station, 7
Service Station, Clean, 26
Servie Menu, Check Powder Level, 63
Setup The Build, ZPrint, 30
Slice Viewing, 32
Slow Axis, Lubrication, 69
Specifications, System, 76
Spread Button, 25
Spread Powder, 25
Squeegee Scraper, Clean, 27
Squeegee Scraper, Locate, 27
Squeegees, Clean, 26
Squeegees, Dry, 27
Start, Printer, 22
ii
Storage, Materials, 48
Strength, 3
Stripe Test, 74
Symbols, 76
Syringe, 74
System Components, 4
System Details, 76
System Dimensions, 76
System Specifications, 76
System Subcomponents, 5
Z
Z-Bond, Curing, 46
Z-Bond, General Application, 45
Z-Bond, Instructions For Using, 45
Z-Bond, Safety Precautions, 45
Z-Bond, Tips, 46
ZCast, Instructions For Using, 48
ZCast, Remove The Scraper Blade, 49
Z-Max, Curing, 44
Z-Max, General Application, 43
Z-Max, Mixing, 43
Z-Max, Painting, 45
Z-Max, Safety Precautions, 42
Z-Max, Spraying, 43
ZPrint, 3D Print Setup Dialog, 31
ZPrint, Collision Detection, 32
ZPrint, Setup The Build, 30
ZPrinter 310 Subcomponents
Back Panel View, 6
Gantry Top View, 7
Service Station Top View, 7
Z-Snap, Clean Up, 56
Z-Snap, Curing, 56
Z-Snap, General Application, 55
Z-Snap, Machine Setup, 56
Z-Snap, Mixing, 55
Z-Snap, Part Removal, 59
Z-Snap, Post Processing, 59
Z-Snap, Software Setup, 57
T
Tamp, Powder, 24
Tip, Purge Print Head, 63
Tips, Gross and Fine Depowder, 14
Tips, Quick Start Guide, 14
Tips, Z-Bond, 46
Toggle Roller On/Off, 74
Tolerances, Dimensional, 14
Tools, Accessories Kit, 40
Tools, Post-Processing, 40
U
Unpark, 61
Upload New Firmware, 75
Upload New Printer Configuration, 75
Useful Tips, Quick Start Guide, 14
Using the External Vacuum Bag Liner, 37
V
Vacuum, External Bag Liner, 37
Vacuuming, Warning, 34
View Printer Log, 74
W
Wall Thicknesses, Drying Times, 40
Warning, Binder, 28
Warning, Magnesium, 49
Warning, Vacuuming Operations, 34
Warning, Waste Solution, 29
Wash Bottle, 26
Wash Fluid, 68
Refill, 68
Reservoir Cover, Removal, 68
Wash Fluid, Refill, 68
Waste Bottle, Empty, 29
Waste Solution, Warning, 29
Wax, Curing, 47
Wax, General Application, 46
Wax, Instructions For Using, 46
Wax, Safety Precautions, 46
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ZPRINTER 310 PLUS

2002 - 2006 Z Corporation

All Rights Reserved

2002 - 2006 Z Corporation

All Rights Reserved

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

2 Quick Start Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5 Setup The Build In ZPrint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

6.5 Infiltrate the Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8 Maintenance and the Service Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

8.8.5 Slow Axis Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

ZPrinter 310 Plus

ZD5 Powder Recycling Station

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

ZPrinter 310 Plus Subcomponents

Binder Bottle (on top

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

Back Panel View

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

Gantry (Top View)

Gantry (Top View)

Service Station (Top View)

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

Spread. This button allows you to

ZPrinter 310 Control Panel Detail

Build Up/Build Down.

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

ZD5 Powder Recycling Station

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

Quick Start Guide

Quick Start Guide

2.1 Printer Preparation

1. Fill the feed box with powder. Recycle any

2. Spread powder over the build area and use

3. Clean and wipe the squeegees and parking

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

Quick Start Guide

4. Clean the squeegee scraper with a damp

5. Check the binder level and fill if necessary.

6. Check the waste bottle. Remove and dispose

7. Place the printer Online.

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

Quick Start Guide

2.2 Print A Part

2. Select File > 3D Print Setup or click the 3D

3. In the 3D Print Setup dialog, click Select

ZPrinter 310 Plus Hardware Manual

Quick Start Guide