Resources

Introduction

In addition to all of the information that we put to your service, in this section we will provide additional resources to make sure all your questions and technical requests are answered. Our goal is to simplify the process of 3D printing and all its details. We will go through specs, such as hollowing details and assembly details, and we will also walk you through the procedure to export files, specifically .stl files.

Design Guidelines

DimensionsSLASLSPolyjetDMLS
Minimum wall thickness0.030 in.0.030 in.0.024 in.0.012 in.
Minimum detail size0.025 in.0.020 in.0.008 in.0.015 in.
Maximum part size*I = 19.5 in. L = 19.5 in. h = 11.5 in.I = 13 in. L = 13 in h = 11 in.I = 19.3 in. L = 15.4 in. h = 7.9 in. I = 9.8 in. L = 9.8 in. h = 7.2 in.
Minimum size of a protruding feature0.025 in. height and width0.025 in. height and width0.025 in. height and width0.025 in. height and width
Minimum size of an engraved feature0.025 in. height and width
For better results, engraved texts are preferable		0.025 in. height and width
For better results, engraved texts are preferable		0.025 in. height and width
For better results, engraved texts are preferable		0.025 in. height and width
For better results, engraved texts are preferable
Minimum hole diameter**0.030 in.0.039 in.0.010 in.0.020 in.
*Parts exceeding the platform size of our machines can be printed in sections and assembled. Our programmers can take care of parting the pieces so as to assure the best possible results.

**If your part has internal channels, please let the sales team know about it.
Download PDF

Hollowing Details

    • Initial part in 3 dimensions

    • Section view of initial part (full)

    • Hollowed Part

    • Hollowed part with Tetrashell structure

    • After printing, hollowed parts still contain un-fused, and re-useable, printing material (resine or powder). In order to remove it the part is given a discreet drainage hole which is later plugged by our finishers using resin or glue.
      NB: Not applicable to parts using Polyjet.

    • Internal supports can be removed provided there is a minimum opening of 3 inches in diameter
      NB: In order to gain access to internal supports with insufficient access (hole < 3 inch), we must print the part in sections.

Exporting Files

If individual triangle or faceting are visible in the CAD file, then they also appear in the printed part. In this case, use a .stp file or a file with high resolution.

When submitting an assembly for printing, please provide us with a file for each component (ideally in its assembled position).

We prefer you provide us with files in .stp format, although we accept a number of other formats : .stl / .igs / .sldprt / .obj / .X_T

Converting files can introduce subtle errors which can enhance the print. We advise that you use the free software MiniMagics in order to verify your files. Unfixed errors wil add delays on quoting and producing.

Minimagics Software

Designing parts ready for brass inserts

Brass inserts increase the fuctionality and usability of 3D printed parts and are often used in short run production jobs. The pdf to the right takes the guesswork out of designing parts ready for inserts. Apply the recommended metrics from the pdf to the part design and our staff will integrate the inserts post print.

Spec sheet

How to Export .STL from CAD Software

A step by step guide to exporting .stl files from various CAD software.

Step by step guide

Assembly Details

Parts printed for assembly must allow for a clearance they connect.

NB: For parts exeeding 10 inches in any direction, allow for a total clearance of 0.020 in.

Assembly