Load direction
Prints are weakest between layers. We orient the part so the main load runs along them, not across.
Engineering parts
Working parts, checked by a mechanical engineer.
Send a model and a drawing. We check it for printability, suggest changes that make it stronger or cheaper, and reply with a quote within one working day.
What the review covers
Every engineering order gets a design-for-print review. You get a short note with anything we'd change and why, before the part is printed.
Holes and fits
Printed holes come out slightly small. We compensate in the model, or leave material for you to ream to size.
Walls and ribs
Walls are sized to a whole number of extrusion lines, so there are no weak gaps hiding inside them.
Threads
Brass heat-set inserts wherever a screw will go in more than once. Modelled threads only from M8 up.
Supports
Datum faces and cosmetic faces are kept clear of supports, so they stay flat and clean.
Material
Chosen for temperature, chemicals, stiffness and wear. Datasheets and a certificate of conformity on request.
Designing for print
Three rules that make the biggest difference to a printed part. They're simple, and they cover most of the problems we see in files.
Load along the layers
A bracket printed standing up can be five times weaker than the same bracket printed lying down. Tell us which way the load goes and we'll orient it.
Holes print small
Curves are printed as short straight lines, and the plastic squashes inwards, so holes lose one or two tenths. We allow for it on anything marked as a fit.
Walls in whole lines
A 0.4 mm nozzle lays lines about 0.45 mm wide. Size thin walls in multiples of that and the lines fuse into one solid wall.
Tolerances
Typical results for a well-oriented part in PETG, ASA or nylon. Anything tighter can often be reached by machining a printed part, and we'll tell you honestly if printing isn't the right process.
| Feature | As printed | With post-machining | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Length, width up to 100 mm | ±0.20 mm | ±0.05 mm | Measured on the X and Y axes |
| Length, width above 100 mm | ±0.2 % | – | Shrinkage matters more on large parts |
| Height | ±1 layer | ±0.05 mm | 0.10 mm with the 0.2 mm nozzle |
| Hole diameter | −0.10 / −0.20 | H7 | Compensated in the model when marked as a fit |
| Flatness, 100 mm face | 0.20 mm | 0.05 mm | Face-down on the plate gives the flattest result |
Request an engineering quote
A person reads every request. You'll have a price and any design notes within one working day.