Stacking and Locking Sift, Sieve Trays

I made a set of mesh trays that lock together with easy-to-print threads. (I used this template: https://www.printables.com/model/989431-custom-threads-for-3d-printing-parametric.)  You can use the pieces individually or make a tower and sort for multiple sizes at the same time.  I also modeled accessories including a funnel, spacer, and bottom cover.  

Which Size?

• Small (shown in the picture gallery)
  • 80mm diameter grid
  • 1.5 - 16mm square holes
• Large
  • 150mm diameter grid
  • 1.5 - 32mm square holes

Note that the outer diameter of these parts is larger than the grid diameter to account for wall thickness and threads.  

Which File?

Because of the large number of mesh sizes, I grouped models into zip files.  They contain every mesh and accessory.

I recommend using step files if you slicer supports them.  This file format uses accurate 3D geometry and not approximations.  If you use stl files, you may notice some triangles and facets on your prints where there should be smooth surfaces.  I include them because of their wide compatibility, but the step files are better.  

Printing

Add a brim to the funnel and spacer because of the small bottom surface area.  If your setup supports it, use arc fitting (G2, G3 commands) for all parts.  

For smooth threads, print with 0.2mm layer height and tune your seams.  If your threads do not mesh well, try making adjustments with XY Size Compensation.  Using a negative value adds more clearance between the inner and outer threads.

Expect long print times with fine meshes because of the many small extrusions and retractions.  It is worthwhile to check print time with Arachne and Classic perimeter generators.  Arachne is probably better for the threads, and Classic is probably better for the mesh grid (especially when wall thickness is an even multiple of extrusion widths).

Fuzzy Skin Grips

I recommend adding fuzzy skin to the flat, outer surface of the trays.  The smart fill option inside the Paint-on Fuzzy Skin tool makes this quick and easy.  I made a fine texture with 0.3mm thickness and 0.3mm point distance.

Custom Mesh

You can make your very own custom mesh with Template.3mf.  (Each zip file has a template.)  Note that a custom mesh printed like this uses walls that are a single extrusion wide.  This makes the bottom weaker but significantly reduces print time.  I recommend slowing down your infill printing speed to match perimeter speed.   

1. In PrusaSlicer, open Template.3mf and select Yes to load it as a single object with multiple parts.
2. Click on the Template Modifier part in the side bar, select Change type, then select Modifier.
3. Click on Template Modifier in the side bar and select Layers and Perimeters.  Change Top, Bottom, and Perimeters to 0.  
4. Click again and this time select Infill.  Change the density and pattern to suit your preference.  (Grid infill is probably a good place to start.)  

Thanks for visiting, and enjoy!