DESIGN CLUES FOR 3D PRINTING
DESIGN
FDM
SLS
DMLS
Supported Walls
Walls that are conected to other structures on at least two sides.
1 mm
0.7 mm
0.4 mm
Unsupported Walls
Walls that are connected to the rest of the print on only one side.
1 mm
0.7 mm
1 mm
Support & Overhangs
The maximum angle a wall can be printed out without requiring support.
45°
–
45°
Embossed & Engraved Details
Features on the model that are raised or recessed below the model surface.
0.6 mm width
2 mm height
0.5 mm width
2 mm height
0.1 mm width
2 mm height
Holes
The minimum diameter a technology can successfully print a hole.
Ø2 mm
Ø1.5 mm
Ø0.5 mm – 6 mm
Connecting & Moving Parts
The recommended clearance between 2 moving or connecting parts.
0.2 mm
0.5 mm for moving parts
0.2 mm for connections
0.5 mm for moving parts
0.2 mm for connections
Escape Holes
The minimum diameter of escape holes to allow for the removal of build material.
–
3.5 mm
2 mm
Minimum Features
The recommended minimum size of a feature to ensure it will not fail to print.
2 mm
0.5 mm
0.25 mm
Tolerance
The expected tolerance (dimensional accuracy) of a specific technology.
± 0.2 mm
± 0.2 mm
± 0.1 mm
Pin Diameter
The minimum diameter a pin can be printed at.
3 mm
1 mm
1 mm
