1. What should I know before designing a 3D CAD file for 3D printing?
Before designing a 3D CAD file for 3D printing, it's important to consider the technology and material you'll be printing with. Each process — FDM, SLA, Industrial SLA, MJF, FGF, or — has its own design rules around wall thickness, overhangs, support needs, tolerances, and orientation.
2. Key Design Considerations
Wall thickness: Don't go too thin — each material has a minimum requirement (e.g., 0.8mm+ for most plastics)
Tolerance planning: If your part involves mating features or assemblies, build in clearance based on the material's accuracy
Overhangs and supports: Avoid extreme angles or unsupported geometry, especially for FDM and SLA
Orientation: Design knowing how the part will be printed — flat surfaces, fine details, and structural load all benefit from correct orientation
Export correctly: Always export a watertight STL or STEP file, at actual size and in millimeters
If you're unsure, we're happy to review your file and give guidance — just reach out!