All You Need to Know About TurboCAD for 3D Printing

The world-class TurboCAD software is based on computer-aided design (CAD). The CAD system was developed by San Francisco-based IMSI/Design and features a powerful design palette with a wide range of functions that allow users to create 2D and 3D drawings. The software is mainly used by architects, draftsmen, carpenters and product designers in the construction and mechanical engineering sectors. In addition, TurboCAD supports additive manufacturing and its application areas.

TurboCAD was developed by Hendrik Vermooten and Hein Oosthuizen in 1985, before the first version of the software was released on the South African market in 1986 under the name “InterCAD.” At that time, the software sold for the equivalent of about 90 euros. The manufacturer’s aim was to offer a more affordable alternative to AutoCAD. As a result, TurboCAD sales also expanded internationally, with the software first appearing on the British market. To date, the program sold around two million copies.

TurboCAD as a CAD software for 3D printing.

TurboCAD Software Features

TurboCAD software is compatible with Microsoft Windows (11, 10, 8 and 7) and Mac OS (10.11 to 11.01 or higher) operating systems. This program is suitable for loading, processing and rendering even very large CAD files. In addition, realistic visualizations can be created with the help of the rendering tools.

TurboCAD also supports many different file formats for 3D models, which can be opened directly in the software, imported or integrated via XREF. TurboCAD’s file compatibility also ensures that data exchange with other platforms runs smoothly. The software is equipped with a user-friendly interface, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals.

As mentioned, TurboCAD has 2D and 3D drawing tools for creating accurate models. These include paper space and printing options as well as markup and assembly list tools, multiple selection, dimensioning, symbology and guidelines.

Uses for 3D Printing

TurboCAD is ideal for rapid prototyping or on-demand production of spare parts. Since TurboCAD supports additive manufacturing and can generate STL files, the software can generate 3D drawings for 3D printing.

The main features of TurboCAD Platinum software also include the easily customizable user interface. Newcomers will find it very easy to get started thanks to the AutoCAD®-like design interface. The software also makes it possible to make corrections to an object at high speed and to create a new STL file, the need for which often only becomes apparent after 3D printing. The STL file can be integrated into the printer’s host software and manufactured. The data is transferred via WLAN, SD cards or Ethernet.

The Pro Plainum version also features a powerful CAD system that allows you to create 3D designs with the help of a geometric modeler, such as parametric rounding of edges and shapes. This makes the program suitable for both part and assembly designs. Pro can also be used to open, insert or link 35 file formats and import 28 file formats. These include IGES, STEP, OBJ and STL for 3D printing. This ensures that files can be shared across different platforms. TurboCAD Pro Platinum also supports exporting 3D models to PDF files, which are viewed with Acrobat Reader.

Photorealistic rendering and visualization with TurboCAD Pro Platinum

TurboCAD Pro Platinum can be used in many different areas, such as complex design development, prototyping with 3D printers, mechanical design, furniture design, carpentry and joinery, and product and packaging design. Some interesting features included in TurboCAD Pro Platinum include photorealistic rendering and visualization using Turbolux™, a state-of-the-art rendering technology based on PBR (Physically Based Rendering) techniques.

In addition, in the 3D modeling and design area, the section curve tool has been extended to include the new so-called associative intersection option. This makes it possible to connect the created intersection curves with 3D objects. Finally, the speed, user interface and ease of use have been improved, so that the user is shown all the above steps and it is possible to switch between them.

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*All Photo Credits: TurboCAD