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Community

Share your experiences, thoughts and seek advice in manufacturing. Create your own topics for discussion, ask questions, and participate in conversations.

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Solidworks vs. Autodesk fusion for complex assemblies
Hi, seeking insights from the community: What are the notable differences between SolidWorks and Fusion 360 in terms of their capabilities for designing complex assemblies? Thanks
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22.4k
Mar 21
Discussing CAD add-ins: Which ones are essential for you?
Hello community, I’d like to start a discussion about the add-ins or plugins you find indispensable for working with CAD software like SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Inventor, etc. Which add-ins can’t you live without and... read more
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43.4k
May 15
Tolerances Before or After Anodizing?
Hello, I have a question about the standard practice in the industry regarding determining tolerances for surface treatments involving anodizing. Considering that anodizing has the potential to add a few to tens of microns... read more
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23.2k
Mar 29
How to design a 3D-printed snap closure that works perfectly?
Hey guys! I’m hoping I can get some technical advice in designing an enclosure for a scientific instrument — it's a portable and remote logging device. The device I'm enclosing is about 100 mm... read more
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16.7k
Jul 02
Design tips for living hinges for plastics
Hey. I'm working on an insecticide sprayer, using a living hinge battery compartment. I'd like thoughts on design and durability issues. I know material selection is a big deal – it needs to be... read more
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9.9k
Oct 07
What are the best practices for designing snap-fit features to ensure ease of assembly?
Hey everyone, I'm creating a molded ABS enclosure for an electronic product with snap-fits to close the enclosure. I'm not sure of the best direction - I've looked at some products, I see little... read more
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10.9k
Aug 29
How to ensure color uniformity in plastic injection?
Hello everyone, I am currently working on a mass production project through plastic injection. And I wonder how I can guarantee the correct color for all the pieces, knowing they will be manufactured in... read more
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11.7k
Seeking advice: best CAD file format for multi-colored 3D printed toys?
What type of CAD file should I use for 3D printing if I want to create multi-colored small sculptures (toys)? I'm unsure if STL is the best format for this purpose. So far, I've... read more
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11.8k
Apr 03
CNC machining vs 3D printing parts
Hey everyone, I am trying to decide which of my parts should be machined and which 3D printed. I am leaning towards 3D printing primarily because it will be cheaper. But there is one... read more
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14.1k
Oct 18
Maximum safe draw depth for aluminum
Hi everyone, I'm designing an automotive underbody heat shield using 0.8 mm thick aluminum alloy 5052-H32 for progressive die stamping. My main challenge is determining the optimal draw depth for complex geometries without risking... read more
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14.8k
Jan 02