3D Printing Design Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive 3D Printing Design Guide, your indispensable resource for ensuring that your designs align with the guidelines governing our cutting-edge 3D Printing Service. Whether you are a seasoned designer or new to the world of 3D printing, this guide has been meticulously crafted to empower you with the knowledge and insights needed to create exceptional parts using any of the materials and technologies we offer.

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Wall Thickness

Wall thickness influences printability and material properties: below 1.0mm may not print and risks damage; up to ~3mm has flexibility, and beyond this will be stiff. Thick walls may be hollowed out to avoid deformation during manufacturing, leaving the internal spaces full of unfused PA12 Nylon powder.

MINIMUM 1.0mm

Part Size

Parts exceeding or falling below the specified limits are incompatible with our equipment and cannot be produced effectively.

MINIMUM 8cm³

MAXIMUM 335 x 285 x 445 (mm)

Embossed Detail

Embossed details are shallow raised features on your model, such as texture, patterns and text. Details smaller than 0.8mm in thickness may not be visible on your part.

MINIMUM 0.8mm

Engraved Detail

Engraved details are imprinted or recessed features on your model. Details must be at least 0.4mm in width and depth for clarity.

MINIMUM 0.4mm

Through Holes

To prevent blockages a minimum diameter of 1.5mm is recommended, with an increase of 1mm in diameter for every 10mm depth. (e.g., a 30mm hole should be at least 4.5mm wide)

MINIMUM: ø1.5mm

+DEPTH: ø+1mm per 10mm depth

Blind Holes

Blind holes are more susceptible to blockages than through holes. A minimum diameter of 2mm is recommended, with an increase of 2mm in diameter for every 10mm depth.

MINIMUM: ø2mm

+DEPTH: ø+2mm per 10mm depth

Cavities

When designing hollow parts, be sure to use large openings and avoid non-line-of-sight cavities to prevent trapping unsintered material inside.

MINIMUM Opening Diameter: 50mm

Integrated Clearance

Pre-assembled components such as hinges or interlocking parts may fuse if too close together, especially if they have thick walls.

MINIMUM 0.5mm

Assembly Clearance

For parts intended to be assembled post-printing. A free fit offers more space for easy assembly and movement, while a close fit is tighter and may require some force or adjustments to assemble.

FREE FIT 0.2mm

CLOSE FIT 0.1mm

Text Size

It’s important to consider the distance between engraved letters as well as the line weight of embossed text. Any material thickness below 0.8mm may not be visible.

MINIMUM 0.8mm

Large Flat Parts

Avoid designing large flat components as they’re particularly susceptible to deformation or warping. Adding support ribs often exacerbates deformation, so it's best to steer clear of large flat surfaces if possible.

MAXIMUM ~A5 paper size

Wire Diameter

It's advisable to maintain a minimum thickness of 1.2mm for wires up to 7mm long, increase to 2mm for lengths up to 30mm, and use at least 3mm thickness for anything longer.

MINIMUM 1.2mm - 3mm

Edge Thickness

To prevent damage during manufacturing, avoid designs with edges that taper to zero thickness. Thin edges are prone to damage; it's recommended to blunt these tapered edges to a minimum thickness of 1mm.

MINIMUM 1.0mm

While it's worth noting that some designs with unconventional geometries may still achieve successful prints, adhering to this guide is your best pathway to consistently achieving outstanding results. Whether you're seeking precision, durability, or aesthetic perfection, this guide will serve as your trusted companion on your journey to mastering the art of 3D printing.

We understand that creativity knows no bounds, and sometimes you may have designs that fall outside these guidelines. In such cases, we may still attempt to print your project; however, please be aware that deviations from the recommended parameters may result in suboptimal outcomes, and we cannot guarantee the quality or functionality of such prints. Therefore, it's important to carefully review and follow our design guidelines to maximize the chances of success.

Additionally, please note that if your design does not adhere to these guidelines and we proceed with the printing, we will not be able to offer refunds for orders that do not meet the specified criteria. Our aim is to provide you with the best possible 3D printing experience, and we encourage you to utilize this Design Guide to make informed decisions about your projects.

3D PRINTING DESIGN GUIDE

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

+ What if my 3D file does not meet the requirements?

+ Which guidelines are the most important?

+ If my part does not meet the guidelines, will 3D People still print it?

+ Can 3D People edit my model to make it fit the guidelines?

+ What happens if my part is below the minimum wall thickness?

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