3D Printing a Pinephone Back Cover

[NormandC]

I'm thinking that the STP file was taken right off the design used to injection mode the "real" back case.

I'm pretty sure it is. It matches all the details on the production back cover. And I was pretty certain looking it up that it wouldn't print very good on an FDM printer.

Some of the advantages of FDM printing are it's cheaper, and more forgiving if you drop the printed item, where SLA printers allow for VERY detailed prints, however, they are brittle, you drop the print and you have a pretty good chance of breaking the item. If you're into D&D type miniatures, war hammer, or any type on miniatures, you'd love an SLA printer.

What we've exclusively used at work for plastic prototypes at work for the past few years is SLS (selective laser sintering). It's much stronger than SLA, about as precise, and uses ABS. It's even possible to work with metals. It's pretty expensive though, too much for personal use unless you're willing to shell out $50 for a back cover including shipping. At least that's what I remember from the online quote I made a few months ago.

I've made a few changes to the print settings and trying again.

I'll be curious to know how it turns out.