In this video, titled “10 Secret 3D Printing Tricks Only Experts Know,” you will learn some amazing tips and tricks from a seven-year experienced engineer. The video covers 11 design tricks for 3D printing that everyone needs to know. It starts with a demonstration of the 3D printed thread and how it can be used to securely connect 3D printed parts. The video also showcases the use of the c-clip for attaching objects to an axle, as well as forcing the slicer to make stronger parts by adding small cylindrical holes. Other tricks include creating custom gears, saving time and material by adjusting settings, using tree supports for easier removal, and designing print-in-place live hinges and containers. It’s an informative and practical video that will enhance your 3D printing skills.

1. Design Tricks for 3D Printing

As a 3D printing enthusiast, you’re always looking for new design tricks to improve your printing projects. In this article, we’ll explore several design techniques that can take your 3D prints to the next level. From creating 3D printed threads to making parts stronger with cylindrical holes, these tricks will help you optimize your designs and achieve better results with your 3D Printer. Let’s dive in!

1.1 3D Printed Threads with Fusion 360

One of the most versatile design tricks for 3D printing is creating 3D printed threads. With Fusion 360, a free CAD program for personal use, you can easily design and incorporate threads into your models. These threads can be used to connect 3D printed parts together securely, allowing you to create modular designs like a desk organizer, as shown in the example. 3D printed threads provide a simple and effective way to join parts without the need for additional connectors or adhesives.

1.2 C-Clip Attachment

Another useful design trick is using a c-clip attachment to securely connect objects to an axle. The c-clip is a small, space-saving component that provides a strong connection between parts. You can attach the c-clip to an axle by compressing it and sliding it into place. The c-clip eliminates the need for complex fasteners and allows for easy assembly and disassembly of components.

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1.3 Making Parts Stronger with Cylindrical Holes

If you want to make your 3D printed parts stronger, you can utilize cylindrical holes strategically placed within the design. By cutting small cylindrical holes in specific areas of a part, you force your slicer to create extra walls inside the object during the printing process. These extra walls increase the structural integrity of the part, making it more robust and durable. Experiment with different hole sizes and placements to achieve the desired strength for your prints.

1.4 Ensuring Fit Between Parts

Achieving a precise fit between multiple 3D printed parts can sometimes be challenging. To improve the fit between parts, it’s recommended to leave a small amount of extra space between them. As a general rule, adding 0.4 millimeters of extra space between parts provides enough tolerance for a proper fit. However, it’s important to note that the optimal spacing may vary depending on your printer’s capabilities, so it’s recommended to experiment and adjust as needed.

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1.5 Creating Gears in Fusion 360

Gears are a fundamental component in many mechanical designs, and creating custom gears for 3D printing is easier than you might think. While the gear creation feature in Fusion 360 is somewhat hidden, you can access it by going to Utilities > Add-Ins > Spur Gear. Once you’ve found the gear add-in, you can customize the settings to suit your specific needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment and iterate on your gear designs to achieve optimal functionality and performance.

2. Optimize Printing Time and Material Usage

Apart from design techniques, optimizing printing time and material usage is equally important for efficient 3D printing. By implementing certain strategies, you can significantly reduce print times and save on filament consumption, without compromising the quality of your prints. Let’s explore some of these optimization tricks.

2.1 Switching to Lightning Infill

When printing large objects, the default infill setting can consume a significant amount of time and filament. By switching to lightning infill, you can achieve substantial time and material savings. Lightning infill patterns typically involve sparse, crisscrossing lines that provide enough support and strength without wasting unnecessary material. By changing your infill settings, you can complete prints faster and reduce filament usage.

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2.2 Using Tree Supports for Overhangs

Overhangs are features that extend horizontally beyond the vertical support of a print. Printing overhangs traditionally requires the use of bulky, hard-to-remove supports. However, tree supports offer a more efficient and user-friendly alternative. Tree supports are lightweight structures that branch out from the base, providing support only where it’s needed. By using tree supports, you can reduce post-processing time and achieve cleaner, more precise prints.

2.3 Bridging Overhangs without Supports

Conserving material and eliminating the need for supports is a desirable goal in 3D printing. Surprisingly, certain overhangs can be bridged without the use of any supports. By designing parts with perfectly horizontal overhangs, you enable the 3D printer to bridge across the gaps, saving both time and material. Experiment with different overhang angles and orientations to determine the maximum bridging capabilities of your printer.

3. Advanced Design Techniques

For experienced 3D printing enthusiasts, advanced design techniques can open up a world of creative possibilities. These techniques push the boundaries of what can be achieved with a 3D printer, allowing for intricate and functional designs. Let’s explore a few of these advanced techniques.

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3.1 Print in Place Live Hinge

The print-in-place live hinge is a fascinating design technique that enables the creation of functional hinges directly through the 3D printing process. This technique involves incorporating a conical pin that fits inside a hole, allowing for smooth pivoting motion. By carefully designing the clearance between the pin and hole, you can achieve a working hinge without any assembly required. Print-in-place live hinges are versatile and can be utilized in various applications, such as the creation of foldable objects or articulated models.

3.2 Creating Containers with 3D Printed Threads

Expanding on the earlier discussion of 3D printed threads, another creative application is using them to create custom containers. By designing a container with a thread on the base and a corresponding thread on the lid, you can securely seal the container without the need for additional fixtures or adhesives. To create such a container, start by designing a cylinder for the base, adding a smaller cylinder for the lid, and incorporating the necessary threads. With some practice and attention to detail, you can produce unique and functional containers using this technique.

3.3 Making Custom Chains with Print in Place Hinges

Print-in-place hinges can also be employed to create custom chains. By linking multiple print-in-place hinges together, you can create a chain-like structure that can flex and bend in various directions. This technique offers endless possibilities for designing complex and articulated objects, such as mechanical toys, jewelry, or even kinetic sculptures. Experiment with different hinge designs and chain arrangements to unleash your creativity and push the boundaries of what can be achieved with 3D printing.

4. Exploring Fusion 360 Features

Fusion 360 is a powerful CAD program with a wide range of features that can enhance the design process for 3D printing. From basic design tools to advanced simulation capabilities, Fusion 360 provides a comprehensive toolset for designing and optimizing 3D models. If you’re looking to further expand your skills and unlock the full potential of Fusion 360, consider joining a Fusion 360 Master Class course. These courses offer in-depth training on various aspects of Fusion 360, allowing you to become a proficient user and leverage the program’s capabilities to their fullest extent.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, these design tricks and optimization techniques are valuable tools for any 3D printing enthusiast. Whether you’re looking to improve the functionality of your designs, reduce print times, or explore advanced techniques, these tips can help you take your 3D prints to the next level. By harnessing the power of Fusion 360 and implementing efficient printing strategies, you can achieve outstanding results with your 3D printer. Happy printing!

Check out these 10 secret 3D printing tricks that only experts know. You’ll be amazed by these tips, especially if you’re just starting out. One trick that caught my attention was the chain idea, which is completely new to me. I’m glad I watched this video and learned something new.

If you’re interested in learning more about 3D printing, be sure to visit the 3D Printer Academy website. They offer unique high-quality STLs, online courses, and helpful blog posts to enhance your knowledge.

Got questions about 3D printing? Join their discord server and connect with other enthusiasts. Happy printing!

• Steven

Favorite printer: @BambuLab X1 Carbon

Favorite filament: Bambu Lab filament

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Local Elevator by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/…