Split *.STL in Half?

[Falk3r]

Simple question, probably complicated answer: Can I split an existing STL along a defined plane with the intention of gluing it back together after printing?

I have a simple part that has inset details on the top and bottom surface, the bottom surface prints poorly due to bridging of unsupported filament (or support separation points). What would you suggest?

[mhackney]

Yes but you'll need an app for that. MeshMixer is a common open source one.

[KAS]

I think NetFabb is another program.

[nebbian]

I've done this before in slic3r, easy enough to do.

[nitewatchman]

Simple question, probably complicated answer: Can I split an existing STL along a defined plane with the intention of gluing it back together after printing?

I have a simple part that has inset details on the top and bottom surface, the bottom surface prints poorly due to bridging of unsupported filament (or support separation points). What would you suggest?

I use netfabb for this purpose quite often. This is especially easy if the cut is along one of the Cartesian planes. If it isn't, the part may be rotated using nefabb commands to position as required.

For example, if faced with printing a dumb bell shaped object, I split it along a centerline plane. Then the two halves are printed with flat backs and joined back together. This works exceptionally well with ABS. After the parts are printed, they may be dry fitted back together and clamped when you are satisfied with the alignment. A small brush with acetone will fusion weld the ABS back together and with care the part never evens appear to have been cut. Joint is as strong as the parent material.

gary