PreForm’s smart tools turn CAD models into print-ready parts

In the ever-evolving world of additive manufacturing, software improvements can be just as game-changing as hardware upgrades. With the latest release of PreForm 3.54, Formlabs is helping users take the guesswork and manual labor out of preparing digital models for 3D printing on SLA and SLS machines—making the entire process more efficient and reliable than before.

At the heart of this update is the new Supports V2 algorithm, which creates much smaller support contact points that are strategically placed on edges and corners instead of broad flat surfaces. This smarter support strategy yields smoother surfaces, cleaner part edges, and reduced post-processing work. According to the developer, dimensional accuracy has also improved significantly, with deviations in tricky prints cut roughly in half. 

Beyond support generation, PreForm 3.54 introduces a suite of tools that make preparing parts quicker and easier. Integrated measuring tools allow users to verify distances, wall thicknesses, and component alignment directly within the 3D model—saving time that would otherwise be spent in separate CAD tools. The software’s CAD import improvements automatically detect assemblies and offer options to load entire sets or individual elements, giving users finer control over orientation and packing.

A standout addition is Fill the Build, an automatic packing feature that intelligently distributes parts across the build platform for optimal efficiency. For users of SLS printers—where material use and build volume are critical—this can lead to lower costs per part and better material utilization. Alongside this are numerous “quality-of-life” enhancements, like improved navigation, enhanced viewing options, and color-coded part lists that make complex assemblies easier to manage.

Taken together, these upgrades help close the gap between a digital 3D model and a print-ready part. Whether you’re a beginner just starting with SLA/SLS printing or an experienced operator seeking faster and more accurate workflows, PreForm 3.54 is designed to reduce preparation time and improve output quality, making 3D printing more accessible and dependable.