3D model design guidelines

This is a list of things to keep in mind when designing a model for 3D printing to ensure your model prints without problems.

Maximum build volume

25 x 21 x 21 cm

Minimum feature size

2mm

Details that are under our recommended minimum are prone to breaking in the cleaning process or could fail to print at all.

Overhangs

Try to avoid overhangs beyond 45°. Support structures may be required for overhangs beyond 45° resulting in longer print time and additional cost for support material removal.

Accuracy of PLA

±0.5% (lower limit ±0.5mm)

Embossed and Engraved details

0.6mm wide & 2mm high

Features on the model that are raised or recessed below the model surface.

Layer height

Standard layer height is 0.2mm but we can go as low as 0.1mm.

Print lines

Print lines can occur on the surface of your print. These can become more pronounced on curved and angled surfaces. Print lines greatly depend on the chosen layer height, lower layer height means less pronounced print lines.

Orientation

We do our best to evaluate your model and orient it to optimize either dimensional accuracy or aesthetics depending on the application. Generally, the top surface will have more visible stepping than the bottom surface. The mating surface and other important features like holes are the most accurate when placed in the horizontal plane.

Avoid “Spikes”

If your model has a spike-like geometry where the spike is longer than it is wide, it’s possible for it to break in the cleaning process.