It is crucial to follow strict design specifications in order to achieve high-quality and high-performance 3D printed parts. The part design specification is the cornerstone of ensuring the quality of 3D printed parts. It guarantees the mechanical performance and structural rationality of 3D printed parts, reduces uncertainty and errors in the 3D printing process, and also helps optimize 3D printed parts and material selection. So, what are the design specifications for 3D printed parts?
The main content of the 3D printing part design specification is:
1. Functional priority
Firstly, when designing 3D printed parts, we must ensure that the design of the parts can meet their expected functional and performance requirements, which is the primary specification of the design. For example, bearing specific loads, transmitting power, achieving precise motion, etc. Only in this way can we ensure that the 3D printed parts meet the production requirements and are usable.
2. Structural rationality
Secondly, when designing parts, it is necessary to have a reasonable structure and optimize the geometric shape of the parts to reduce material usage and printing time, while ensuring structural strength. Reducing weight and lowering costs without affecting performance, quality, strength, etc. is also an advantage of 3D printing technology over traditional manufacturing techniques. Optimizing the rationality of part design structure can be achieved through the following aspects:
① Set reasonable precision and tolerances
Because different 3D printing methods have different accuracy levels, when designing parts, we need to consider the functional requirements of the parts and the accuracy level limitations of 3D printing technology, and determine a reasonable dimensional accuracy after comprehensive consideration. Generally speaking, the accuracy of 3D printing can reach ± 0.1mm to ± 0.2mm.
Then, set and control the tolerance according to the accuracy level that the selected 3D printing technology can achieve. Tight tolerances may lead to printing failures or increased costs, while loose tolerances may affect the performance of parts. Therefore, when designing 3D printed parts, it is necessary to clarify the tolerance requirements for each part of the part and consider them in the design.
②Material selection
Based on factors such as the usage environment, mechanical performance requirements, and cost of the parts, determine the required thermal, mechanical, and chemical properties of the materials, and then select suitable 3D printing materials to ensure the reliability of the parts under working conditions.
③ Optimize structural design
Avoid overly complex or unreasonable structures, such as thin walls, sharp corners, and small protrusions, to prevent deformation or cracking during the printing process. Reasonably design reinforcement ribs and support structures, try to avoid the need for additional support structures during the printing process, and improve the strength and stability of the parts.
3. Printability
Finally, all 3D printed part designs must be classified as printable. If they cannot be printed, then even the best and most reasonable designs are useless. Therefore, in the design process, the process limitations and characteristics of the selected 3D printing technology should also be considered. For example, for FDM printing, attention should be paid to the limitations of minimum wall thickness and hanging angle. In addition, it is also necessary to choose the appropriate printing direction in the design based on the function and force situation of the parts to achieve the best performance and accuracy.
Fully mastering the design specifications for 3D printed parts is the only way to create high-quality 3D printed part designs and accurately shape innovative parts. Only under standardized guidance can we fully leverage the advantages of 3D printing technology and provide better solutions for various fields. In the future, with the continuous advancement of 3D printing technology, design specifications will also be constantly updated and improved. Designers need to continuously learn and adapt to new regulatory requirements in order to fully unleash the potential of 3D printing technology. Meanwhile, closer interdisciplinary collaboration will enable materials scientists, engineers, and designers to jointly promote the development of 3D printed part design towards higher quality and more complex directions.