Steampunk Book/Manga Riser for IKEA Billy

This Steampunk Book/Manga riser was designed for the IKEA Billy Bookshelf
It's 10x10x36cm
This riser gives you the possibility to rise the second line and gives you a little space below the books.

It's modular so you can either 
- use the LC (LeftCenter ) module together with the right module (see pictures)
- use the LC (LeftCenter ) module alone and use the remaining space for bigger books
- use the Left, Center and Right module according to your needs

I printed it in ColorFabb “CopperFill” copper filament on my H2D
The ColorFabb “CopperFill” print profile is in the .3mf

nb: you can add the “do not support critical region” in the profile if you need to

ColorFabb CopperFill settings I used (in the profile)
- 0.4mm hardened steel nozzle  
- 0.2mm layer, 
- 2 walls, 
- 25% infill
- Tree support (auto, default, 30° threshold angle, on build plate only, remove small overhang

Please note - I used “Support for PLA” filament for the Support/raft interface

From the ColorFabb Blog “https://colorfabb.com/blog/post/how-to-print-with-copperfill”

How to Print with copperFill Filament

Printing with copperFill is similar to printing with standard PLA, but due to the copper content, it requires specific settings and preparation to achieve the best results. Here’s a guide to setting up your printer and optimizing your print settings.

1. Recommended Printer Setup

Hardened Steel or Ruby Nozzle

Due to the abrasiveness of copper powder in the filament, it’s essential to use a hardened steel or ruby nozzle instead of a standard brass nozzle. Copper particles can wear down a brass nozzle over time, resulting in inconsistent extrusion and lower print quality.

Nozzle Size

Using a nozzle size of 0.4 mm or larger is recommended. Smaller nozzles may struggle with copperFill’s composite material, leading to clogging or inconsistent flow. A 0.6 mm nozzle can be beneficial for better filament flow and improved reliability during longer prints.

Heated Bed

Though copperFill is PLA-based and doesn’t require extreme bed temperatures, using a heated bed can improve adhesion and reduce warping. Set the bed temperature to around 50°C to 60°C to ensure a stable first layer.

2. Optimal Temperature Settings

Extruder Temperature

The recommended extruder temperature for copperFill is between 190°C and 220°C. Start at around 200°C and adjust as needed based on your printer’s behavior. If you notice under-extrusion, try increasing the temperature slightly. Avoid going too high, as this can cause stringing and reduce the finish quality.

Bed Temperature

A bed temperature of 50°C to 60°C is ideal for copperFill. This helps the filament adhere to the bed effectively, especially for larger or more detailed prints. If you’re experiencing adhesion issues, a light layer of glue stick or painter’s tape can help.

3. Print Speed and Retraction Settings

Print Speed

For copperFill, a slower print speed is recommended to ensure consistent extrusion and a smooth surface finish. A speed of 30-40 mm/s works well for most prints. Going slower helps prevent under-extrusion and improves layer adhesion, leading to a better overall print quality.

Retraction Settings

Set a retraction distance of 1-2 mm with a retraction speed of 20-30 mm/s. Excessive retraction can lead to clogs, especially in metal-filled filaments. Adjust the retraction settings to minimize stringing without risking jams.

4. Layer Height and Extrusion Settings

Layer Height

A layer height of 0.2 mm is recommended for copperFill, offering a good balance between print detail and speed. If your design requires more detail, you can go down to 0.1 mm. For larger parts where speed is a priority, 0.3 mm can be used.

Extrusion Multiplier (Flow Rate)

An extrusion multiplier of 100% is typically effective, but depending on your printer, you may need to slightly adjust it to achieve consistent flow. Avoid over-extrusion, as it can create a rough surface that requires more sanding and polishing.

Post-Processing Techniques for a Realistic Copper Finish

One of the most appealing aspects of using copperFill is the ability to post-process prints to look like genuine copper. Here’s how to achieve a beautiful, realistic metallic finish.

Sanding and Polishing

1. Start with Coarse Sandpaper (120-240 grit): Begin sanding your print with coarse sandpaper to remove visible layer lines and create a smooth base. Be gentle to avoid distorting delicate parts.

2. Progress to Finer Grits (400-1000 grit): Move on to medium and then fine grit sandpaper to further smooth the surface. Wet sanding at this stage can help achieve a more refined finish and prevent dust.

3. Polish with Steel Wool or a Polishing Compound: For a metallic shine, use steel wool or a polishing compound. Gently buff the surface until it begins to reflect light and resemble polished copper.

4. Buff for High Gloss: For a mirror-like finish, use a microfiber cloth or a rotary tool with a buffing attachment. Polishing with a fine compound will give your print a high-gloss, authentic copper look.

Tumbling for Uniform Polishing

Using a rock tumbler with a polishing media, such as walnut shells or ceramic media, can provide a more even polish across the entire print. Place the copperFill print in the tumbler for several hours to achieve a smooth, uniform finish. Tumbling is especially effective for smaller parts like jewelry or decorative items.

Applying Patina for an Aged Look

To give your copperFill print an antique or aged appearance, you can apply a patina effect:

1. Apply a Patina Solution or Dark Paint: Patina solutions designed for copper can give your print a weathered look, while dark acrylic paint can mimic a natural aged effect. Brush it on and let it sit briefly.

2. Wipe Away Excess: After the solution or paint has set for a few minutes, wipe away the excess, leaving color in the crevices. This creates an aged appearance that highlights the print’s details.

3. Seal with a Clear Coat (Optional): For added protection, apply a clear coat. This will preserve the patina and prevent oxidation or further changes over time.