3D Printing Design Guide
Here you can check if your designs meet the guidelines for our 3D printing service. We have provided information for each technology to help you produce the best parts when using our service. The aptly named Design Guide is not a rule book and in some cases parts with geometry that goes outside the limits can be printed successfully. However, for best results, please use the guide.
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Supported walls
Walls that are connected to the rest of the model on at least two sides. Minimum: 0.8mm
Unsupported walls
Walls that are connected to the rest of the model on less than two sides. Minimum: 1.6mm
Support and overhangs
The maximum angle at which a wall can be printed without requiring a supporting structure. Maximum: 45°
Relief and recessed details
Model elements that are raised or recessed below the surface of the model. Minimum: 0.6mm wide & 2mm high
Horizontal bridges
The period that the technology can print without the need for maintenance. Maximum: 10mm
Holes
The minimum diameter of a hole that the technology can successfully print. Minimum: Ø2 mm
Connecting/moving parts
Recommended tolerance between two moving or connecting parts. Minimum: 0.5mm
Minimum features
The recommended minimum size of a feature to ensure it will print successfully. Minimum: 2mm
Pin diameter
The minimum diameter of a pin that can be printed. Minimum: 3mm
Stereolithography (SLA)
Supported walls
Walls that are connected to the rest of the model on at least two sides. Minimum: 0.5mm
Unsupported walls
Walls that are connected to the rest of the model by less than two sides. Minimum: 1mm
Supports and overhangs
The maximum angle at which a wall can be printed without requiring a supporting structure. Supports are always required
Relief and recessed details
Model elements that are raised or recessed below the surface of the model. Minimum: 0.4mm wide and high
Holes
The minimum diameter of a hole that the technology can successfully print. Minimum: Ø0.5 mm
Connecting/moving parts
Recommended tolerance between two moving or connecting parts. Minimum: 0.5mm
Material holes
The minimum diameter of holes that allow the removal of the printing material. Minimum: 4mm
Minimum features
The recommended minimum size of a feature to ensure it will print successfully. Minimum: 0.2mm
Pin diameter
The minimum diameter of a pin that can be printed. Minimum: 0.5mm
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
Supported walls
Walls that are connected to the rest of the model on at least two sides. Minimum: 0.7mm
Embossed and recessed details
Model elements that are raised or recessed below the model surface. Minimum: 1mm wide & high
Holes
The minimum diameter of a hole that the technology can successfully print. Minimum: Ø1.5 mm
Connecting/moving parts
Recommended tolerance between two moving or connecting parts. Minimum: 0.3mm for moving parts & 0.1mm for connections
Material holes
The minimum diameter of holes allowing for the removal of material for printing. Minimum: 5mm
Minimum features
The recommended minimum size of a feature to ensure it will print successfully. Minimum: 0.8mm
Pin diameter
The minimum diameter of a pin that can be printed. Minimum: 0.8mm