Skip to content

Country

Language

Close (esc)

Join our mailing list

Stay up to date with the latest products, developments and thought leadership in advanced manufacturing.

3D Printing Tolerances & Fits - 3DChimera

3D Printing Tolerances & Fits

If you are reading this, then there is a greater than 90% chance you are an engineer or designer interested in 3D printing functional parts. 


Like any manufacturing process, in 3D printing it is important to understand the tolerances of the process so that you can properly design parts to fit together and function.

While each printer and technology has specific tolerances that can be achieved, we find that the following designed-in clearances will allow your parts to fit together and function as intended:

Desired Fit Clearance Gap (in) Clearance Gap (mm)
Press Fit Line to Line Line to Line
Tight Fit 0.005 0.127
Normal Fit 0.010 0.254
Loose Fit 0.020 0.508

 

And don't forget...holes in 3D printed parts are ALWAYS undersized.  This is because of the STL file format that is used for 3D printing...we are building a circle from the straight edges of triangles...think circumscribed circle. 

 

Good news is that holes can easily be reamed out by a handy-dandy drill bit

Older Post
Newer Post

Want to learn how advanced manufacturing can support your business?

More You Might Like

Why 3D Scan Data is Typically STL Instead of STEP

When working with 3D scanning, one of the first things you'll encounter is that the output is almost always an STL file rather than a STEP file. This distinction might seem trivial at first, but it’s rooted in the fundamental differences between these two file formats and the nature of 3D scanning technology.

How to Upgrade Your SOLIDWORKS Desktop License While on Active Maintenance

Upgrading to the latest version of SOLIDWORKS is essential for maintaining productivity and taking advantage of new features and improvements. 

The Benefits of Switching from SOLIDWORKS Network Licensing to 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS

In the ever-evolving landscape of engineering and design software, staying ahead means embracing the tools that enhan...

Shopping Cart

Announce discount codes, free shipping etc