--- title: Part Defects slug: troubleshooting/part-defects docTags: createdAt: 2024-06-14T00:55:08.783Z --- # Why Defects Occur Every manufacturing process comes with its own idiosyncrasies that can manifest in defects due to **ill-suited designs**, production **process errors**, and more. - Injection molding can have flow lines, short shots, and warping. - Machining can show tool chatter, burns, and burrs. DLS printing also has its share of potential defects, but the good news is defects can be managed with - Thoughtful design - Optimized build layouts - Well-maintained equipment - Adherence to recommended processes # Resolving a Defect ::::::WorkflowBlock :::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Identify a Part Defect The first and most challenging step is to identify the defect you are dealing with so that you can address the issue properly. Review the [Part Defects Library](docId\:hZus1iJS_aM872NOaLmvm) to review all possible part defects, sorted by when the defect occurs. ::::LinkArray{contentSource="CUSTOM"} :::LinkArrayItem{headerType="IMAGE" headerImage="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/dptYqcTHPbVZhe3zuNg4v-4mgbgODEtgs7k2eJ_EcBV-20250102-002645.png"} ### [Print Defects](docId\:hZus1iJS_aM872NOaLmvm) ::: :::LinkArrayItem{headerType="IMAGE" headerImage="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/dptYqcTHPbVZhe3zuNg4v-qfIBGxdUbkOfuTplVzYiN-20250102-001623.png"} ### [Processing Defects](docId\:hZus1iJS_aM872NOaLmvm) ::: :::: Also inlcuded in the library are print artifacts, which are not defects but rather optical effects that are an artifact of DLS printing. You can, however, influence their effect with print preparation. ::::LinkArray{contentSource="CUSTOM"} :::LinkArrayItem{headerType="IMAGE" headerImage="https://api.archbee.com/api/optimize/dptYqcTHPbVZhe3zuNg4v-ixNnEXAVDMxeDxJQ0MFDK-20250221-020629.png"} ### [Print Artifacts](docId\:hZus1iJS_aM872NOaLmvm) ::: :::: ### Curated Libraries If it is easier to look at a shortened list of defects, a few categories of curated libraraies are also available to find the defect on your part. ::::LinkArray{contentSource="CUSTOM"} :::LinkArrayItem [Lines](docId\:hZus1iJS_aM872NOaLmvm) ::: :::LinkArrayItem [Feature Did Not Resolve Properly](docId\:hZus1iJS_aM872NOaLmvm) ::: :::LinkArrayItem [Lattices](docId\:hZus1iJS_aM872NOaLmvm) ::: :::: :::hint{type="info"} If you can narrow down your potential defects to a few options, open the page each option and** review the section on identifying defects**. Additional clues are provided for each defect that should help narrow your search. ::: ::::: ::::WorkflowBlockItem ## Review Troubleshooting Options - If there is a **known cause** with a **Print Preparation or Part Design solution**\*, go straight to the Print Preparation or Part Design Adjustments section of troubleshooting steps to select an action. - Examples of a defect are shown in its **How to Identify** section. Known causes and solutions are listed with each example, when available. - If your defect closely matches one of these examples, then we recommend trying one of the Print Preparation or Part Design solutions first. - If the **cause** of the defect is **inconclusive**, try the suggested troubleshooting actions in order, as available. - Process, Material, and Hardware Checks - Diagnostics - Print Preparation or Part Design Adjustments *\* Print Preparation or Part Design solutions include Orientation, Supports, Design, and Print Plan Adjustments.* :::hint{type="info"} It is recommended that you review all the possible solutions before taking action to ensure you are pursuing the best course of action. ::: :::hint{type="success"} **Design** solutions are usually the best option if you have the latitude to redesign the part. ::: :::: :::::: # Additional Resources Carbon provides other resources to help you on your path to successful production. Dive deeper to learn more about the topics below. | **Design** | **Print Preparation** | **Printer Mainteneance** | **DLS Process** | | ------------------------------------------------------ | --------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------- | | [DLS Design Guidelines](docId\:t94PR-A-C0pIhY6LJsWk7) | [Printer UI](docId\:oId4ZNZtZYeltTPVJ984a) | [M1/M2 Printer Maintenance](docId:0YWe7YMSIyDn_IMLDVTpn) | [DLS Printer Dynamics](docId\:U7XYytjyDp3BvsYy2qKcU) | | [Lattice Parameters](docId\:f-f8ROxDabcRrBEUDh6Q1) | [Orientation and Supports](docId\:DoBa4qKKoXpi-52yw3nCr) | [M3/M3 Max Printer Maintenance](docId\:sse-8NsW_jHOjBJbKTPr5) | [Process Overview](docId:0k1g5pBC2uXr8zJqrhLcR) | | | | [L1 Printer Maintenance](docId:98b0AYItf-NOlpodFyUKj) | | | | | [Cassette Care](docId\:Y_IMi7AeVLyJbsATEXxdB) | | ## DLS Printer Dynamics To fully understand why part defects occur and how to resolve them, the most helpful information is to understand the dynamics of the DLS printing process. The video below provides an overview, but reviewing the [DLS Printer Dynamics](docId\:U7XYytjyDp3BvsYy2qKcU) guide is also strongly recommended. Understanding the forces at play during printing and how resin is flowing will help you understand how to best utilize recommended troubleshooting steps for each defect. DLS printing is best understood by looking at what happens when each slice is printed. There are five core steps to print each slice. The video plays through 3 slices: one slice slowly and 2 more slices in real-time. ::embed[]{url="https://player.vimeo.com/video/786460318?dnt=1"} *This is an example print of a rigid part. The exact timing of a printing slice and the force values will vary throughout the build and for each project. Z dimensions for pump height, slice thickness, and dead zone are exaggerated for visibility.* **The following stages occur for each printed slice.** 1. Pump Up 2. Settle Up 3. Pump Down 4. Settle Down 5. Exposure