Type 055 destroyer of the Chinese Navy

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The People's Liberation Army Navy Type 055 destroyer boasts a full-load displacement exceeding 10,000 tons, a length of 183 meters, a maximum beam of 19 meters, and a draft of 7 meters. Its speed can reach 30 knots (56 kilometers per hour), and it possesses a range of 4,500 nautical miles (8,339 kilometers). The above information is derived from publicly available online sources and its accuracy is not guaranteed.

This model is crafted at a 1:160 scale, scaled up from the original 1:100 STL file to maximize the print area of an A1 printer. Assuming the painting aid is unnecessary, the entire model can be printed on a single plate.

The model measures 291mm in length, 32mm in width, and 67.2mm at its highest point (from the bulbous bow sonar to the mast radar, excluding the base).

The model is richly detailed, faithfully reproducing features such as the hull stabilizers and anti-roll fins. The propellers are even rotatable.

Lacking a multi-color printer, I printed the entire model using light gray PLA filament and subsequently hand-painted it with acrylic paint pens. Given the simple color blocking, the painting process is relatively straightforward. A multi-color printer would, of course, be preferable.

The red paint on the lower hull may prove challenging to maintain precisely at the waterline during painting; it's easy to stray. A painting aid is provided to assist with alignment. This tool is included as the second plate in the provided print profile. If painting is not desired, omit printing this plate. The image below illustrates the tool's usage: Secure both ends to the hull using clamps, rubber bands, or simply hands to ensure a straight waterline. Then, paint the exposed portion of the hull.

Certain components proved too small for successful printing:

• The main gun barrels are represented by printed filament, approximately 27mm in length. Precision is unnecessary; adjust the length to your preference. Secure the insertion point into the gun mounts with adhesive.
• The propeller shafts are similarly represented by printed filament, approximately 46mm in length; two are required. Secure the insertion points into the hull with adhesive. Do not use adhesive where the shafts contact the propellers to ensure rotation. After assembly, soften the ends of each shaft with a soldering iron or similar tool, then flatten them to allow for free propeller rotation while preventing detachment.
• The CIWS gun barrels are represented by paper clips or pins, approximately 10mm in length. Secure the insertion points into the gun mounts with adhesive.