Design for reliable 3D printing
Follow these technical guidelines to get dimensionally accurate, structurally sound parts the first time.
Minimum Wall Thickness
Walls below the recommended minimum are prone to gaps, sagging, or delamination. Use the recommended values wherever your design allows.
| Part Size | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Small parts (< 40 mm) | 0.8 mm | 1.2 mm |
| Medium parts (40–120 mm) | 1.2 mm | 1.5–2.0 mm |
| Large parts (> 120 mm) | 1.5 mm | 2.0–3.0 mm |
Dimensional Tolerances
FDM tolerances depend on geometry, material, and orientation. For tighter tolerances, request manual post-machining.
| Feature | Tolerance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General dimensions | ± 0.3 mm or ± 0.2% | Whichever is greater |
| Holes (Ø < 10 mm) | ± 0.2 mm | Ream for tighter fit |
| Flat surfaces (in-plane) | ± 0.4 mm | Warp risk on large spans |
| Vertical (Z) features | ± 0.3 mm | Layer dependent |
File Preparation
Export as STL
Binary STL keeps files small. ASCII works but is larger. We also accept STEP for manual quotes.
Set units to millimeters
Our quote engine assumes millimeters. Check your CAD export settings to avoid scaling surprises.
Orient for strength
FDM is anisotropic. Align load paths with the X-Y plane and avoid tall thin features in Z.
Check mesh integrity
A watertight, manifold mesh avoids parse errors. Repair holes or inverted normals before upload.
Ready to print? Get an instant quote from your STL.
Start a Quote