How to Print from Fusion 360 to Cura?

Exporting Your Design from Fusion 360

To initiate the process of preparing your design for 3D printing, start by opening your project in Autodesk Fusion 360. You must prepare the file for export to Cura, the popular slicing software used to convert your 3D models into print-ready files.

Steps to Export and Transfer to Cura

Follow these steps to successfully export your design from Fusion 360 to Cura:

1. Access the Design: Open your project within Fusion 360. Ensure that the model you wish to print is selected and visible in your workspace.
2. Select the 3D Print Option: Navigate to the “Make” menu located in the toolbar. Here, select the “3D Print” option, which prepares your design for output.
3. Configure Output Settings: A dialog box will appear offering various export settings. You can choose to include the entire body or select specific components. Make sure to adjust the settings according to your printing requirements.
4. Select Cura as the Application: Within the same dialog box, you should see an option to choose your 3D printing software. Select Ultimaker Cura or navigate to your custom print utility, if necessary.
5. Initiate Export: After configuring your export settings and specifying Cura as the destination, click the “OK” button to proceed. This will prompt the software to prepare the file for export.
6. Saving Your Model: When prompted, save your file as an STL (Standard Tessellation Language) format, which is compatible with Cura. Ensure you note the location where the file is saved for easy access.

Preparing Your File in Cura

Once your model has been exported as an STL file, it’s time to bring it into Cura for slicing and preparation for 3D printing. Follow these steps:

1. Launch Cura: Open the Ultimaker Cura application on your computer. Ensure that your 3D printer is set up and selected within Cura.
2. Import Your STL File: Click on the “Open File” icon, usually depicted as a folder or a plus sign, to import your exported STL file. Navigate to the location where you saved the file and select it.
3. Set Up Print Settings: Adjust your print settings according to the material and print quality you desire. This includes layer height, infill density, support material, and print speed.
4. Preview Your Print: Utilize the preview function to visualize how your model will appear when printed. Check for potential issues such as unsupported bridges or areas that may require additional support.
5. Slice the Model: Once you are satisfied with the settings, click the “Slice” button. Cura will convert your 3D model into a G-code file, which is the format that printers read.
6. Save or Send to Printer: Lastly, save the sliced file to your computer or directly to your printer, depending on your setup. If your printer is connected, you might have the option to send the file wirelessly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I directly print from Fusion 360 without using Cura?

Fusion 360 has an integrated option to send designs straight to certain 3D printers, but it is generally recommended to use slicing software like Cura for greater control over print settings and preparation.

What file formats does Cura support?

Cura primarily supports STL, OBJ, X3D, and 3MF file formats. If your design is in a different format, you will need to convert it before importing.

Why is STL the preferred format for 3D printing?

The STL format is widely used in 3D printing because it effectively captures the surface geometry of a model while remaining lightweight. This allows for quick processing by slicing software like Cura, making it an industry standard.