What does 3D printing resolution mean?
For 3D printing resolution, it is critical to check before you upload your 3D model for 3D printing. When it comes to Additive Manufacturing, the resolution depends on the layer thickness. However, this is not the only factor you have to keep in mind while designing your parts. Despite that, the layer thickness of some materials can be as little as 28 µm; it doesn’t mean such a thin layer will be solid enough on its own. Therefore, it is crucial you also check minimum details and engraving restrictions. We listed all the essential information for you below.
Layer thickness
As you know, 3D printing is based on producing your model layer by layer. While desktop printers have come a long way, getting a very smooth surface is still tricky. And so, using industrial 3D printers might be the answer. Some machines are capable of producing layers as small as 0.025 mm! In comparison, the average hair is 0.18 mm thin.
Layer thickness is explained in micrometers (µm). 100 µm is equal to 0.1 mm. Within each 3D printing technology, the materials can have different layer thicknesses as different 3D printers use them.
|
Technology |
Layer Thickness |
|
100- 150 µm |
|
|
28 µm |
|
|
100 µm |
|
|
100 µm |
|
|
150 µm |
|
|
30 - 40 µm |
|
|
100 µm |
|
|
25 µm |
Minimum detail
The amount of minimum detail is significant to keep in mind when designing for any 3D printing technology. The minimum detail depends on the technology; the smaller the layer thickness, the more accurate the detail will be. If you don’t respect this value, your 3D model will simply break, or the layers won’t be adequately solidified. Below you can find a table with each of our materials and the amount of detail achieved.
An example of a significant detail achievable with Titanium
|
Technology |
Minimum Details |
|
0.3 mm |
|
|
0.2 mm |
|
|
0.5 - 0.6 mm |
|
|
0.8 mm |
|
|
1 mm |
|
|
1 mm |
|
|
0.8 mm |
|
|
0.4 mm |
Prepare the perfect 3D model
Make sure your 3D model is well designed for 3D printing. Let’s say you want to produce a 3D-printed enclosure. Your model should be designed according to the circuit board and the ports for connecting cables. You should choose robust but still somewhat flexible material so you can include assembly solutions in your design, which eliminates tooling and saves time. After deciding on the material, check all the essentials such as layer thickness, minimum detail, and in this case, the minimum thickness of the wall. Each of our materials has a material page with all the essential information.
Don’t worry if you don’t own a 3D printer; you can simply upload your design to our website for 3D printing! Our automated tool will also check if there are weak points of your design and choose the best orientation if necessary. Don’t wait any longer, and start 3D printing today!
We recommend you check the design guidelines for the material you plan to use for 3D printing.