DESIGN FOR 3D PRINTING

Optimization techniques for better prints. Wall thickness, overhangs, and design rules.

FUNDAMENTAL RULES

DESIGN CONSTRAINTS

MINIMUM WALL THICKNESS

1.2MM

Structural integrity. 2mm+ for functional parts.

MAXIMUM OVERHANG

55°

Self-supporting angles. Steeper requires supports.

MINIMUM FEATURE SIZE

0.4MM

Nozzle diameter limitation. Smaller may not print.

LAYER HEIGHT RANGE

0.1-0.3MM

Detail vs speed tradeoff. 0.2mm standard.

BRIDGE DISTANCE

<20MM

Unsupported spans. Longer distances may sag.

HOLE DIAMETER

>0.5MM

Minimum printable holes. Drill for precision.

OPTIMIZATION TECHNIQUES

DESIGN STRATEGIES

WALL THICKNESS OPTIMIZATION

Design walls in multiples of nozzle width for strength and print quality.

• Use 1.2mm (3 perimeters) minimum

• 2.4mm (6 perimeters) for functional parts

• Avoid odd multiples (1.0mm, 1.8mm)

• Consider infill pattern interaction

OVERHANG MANAGEMENT

Minimize supports through strategic design orientation and geometry.

• Keep overhangs under 55° when possible

• Use chamfers instead of sharp overhangs

• Design self-supporting geometries

• Consider print orientation early

STRESS CONCENTRATION

Avoid sharp corners and stress concentrators for stronger parts.

• Add fillets to internal corners

• Use chamfers on external edges

• Avoid sharp transitions

• Consider loading conditions

ASSEMBLY CONSIDERATIONS

Design for easy assembly and post-processing requirements.

• Add clearance for moving parts

• Design for print-in-place when possible

• Consider support removal access

• Plan for post-processing operations

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