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Will a 6mm dowel fit in this hole?

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hello, I’m designing a part with an FDM 3D printed hole to hold a 6mm wooden dowel, but I’m unsure about the actual fit due to print tolerances and material shrinkage. The hole is modeled at 6mm in CAD, but I know FDM printers often produce slightly smaller or irregular holes depending on factors like layer adhesion and filament type. For those who have tested similar setups, should I oversize the hole slightly to ensure a proper fit? If so, what diameter would you recommend to achieve either a snug slip fit or a light press fit without excessive post-processing?

    • b

      hello, I’m designing a part with an FDM 3D printed hole to hold a 6mm wooden dowel, but I’m unsure about the actual fit due to print tolerances and material shrinkage. The hole is modeled at 6mm in CAD, but I know FDM printers often produce slightly smaller or irregular holes depending on factors like layer adhesion and filament type. For those who have tested similar setups, should I oversize the hole slightly to ensure a proper fit? If so, what diameter would you recommend to achieve either a snug slip fit or a light press fit without excessive post-processing?

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    • Xometry Engineer

      Hi! Yes, knowing the tolerances of FDM your best best is to slightly oversize the hole. E.g., offset the face by 0.13 mm (which will open the hole up by 0.26 mm overall) for a tight fit, or 0.18 mm if a small air gap is OK. I also recommend using solid infill as it makes it easier in using a drill or reamer to hit a desired size post printing (this can easily be done with a hand drill or press).

      Now, looking at your file I do have to ask if you’ve considered SLS or MJF? Those little side holes are for a set screw, right? In FDM they’ll look oblong and coarse. SLS and MJF post-drill like butter so you can build the part and drill/ream to your precision needs.

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Will a 6mm dowel fit in this hole?
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