Design for Additive Manufacturing (DFAM)
Follow these guidelines to ensure your parts print successfully, with optimal strength and surface quality.
Minimum Wall Thickness
Keep walls at least 1.2mm for FDM, 0.8mm for SLA/SLS. Thin walls are fragile and may not print reliably.
💡 Tip: For structural walls, aim for 2–3mm minimum.
Overhangs & Supports
FDM can handle overhangs up to 45° without support. Beyond that, support structures are added automatically or manually.
💡 Tip: Design overhangs at ≤45° to reduce support material and post-processing.
Bridging
FDM can bridge gaps up to ~50mm reliably. For SLA/SLS, bridging is more flexible.
💡 Tip: For spans >50mm, consider adding a slight arch or support underneath.
Tolerances & Fit
Add 0.1–0.3mm clearance for moving parts or assemblies. Shrinkage occurs during cooling, especially for ABS.
💡 Tip: Test with a calibration print before running full production parts.
Hole Sizing
Printed holes are often 0.1–0.2mm undersized due to material flow. Design holes slightly oversized or plan for post-drilling.
💡 Tip: For precision holes, design +0.2mm and post-process with a drill or reamer.
Text & Embossing
Embossed text should be at least 1.5mm tall and 0.5mm deep to print cleanly. Engraved text needs slightly larger sizing.
💡 Tip: Use sans-serif fonts for the clearest results at small sizes.
Sharp Corners
Sharp internal corners create stress concentrations. Fillet internal corners with a radius of at least 0.5mm.
💡 Tip: R≥1mm on internal corners improves part strength significantly.
Part Orientation
How your part is oriented in the print bed affects strength, surface quality, and support needs. Discuss with our team for complex parts.
💡 Tip: Orient critical surfaces facing up or forward for the best surface finish.
Need a Full Technical Spec Sheet?
Our engineering team can review your CAD files and advise on design improvements before printing. Free for all customers.