Design for the process, not just the CAD screen.
Wall thickness, orientation, support access, holes, threads, mating fits and post-processing can change whether a part prints reliably. Use this guide to prepare a better RFQ; final limits are confirmed against the selected process and material.
What CG reviews before release
Exact minimums depend on process, material, printer, orientation and geometry; the website therefore avoids pretending one universal number fits every print.
Wall thickness & small features
Thin walls can warp, crack or fail to resolve depending on process and orientation.
- Identify load-bearing walls and cosmetic walls separately.
- Call out intentionally thin flexible features.
- Do not rely on screen visibility alone as proof of printability.
Layer direction & support access
Orientation affects strength, surface quality, support marks and machine time.
- State the primary load direction.
- Identify visible / cosmetic faces.
- Keep support removal and trapped-volume access in mind.
Holes, shafts & assemblies
Printed holes and mating features can need process-specific allowance or secondary finishing.
- Call out mating dimensions and functional clearances.
- State if a hole will be drilled or reamed after printing.
- Provide the mating component when fit is critical.
Threads & brass inserts
Small printed threads are not always the best manufacturing choice.
- Consider heat-set inserts for repeat assembly in thermoplastic parts.
- Specify insert type / thread / quantity / location.
- Leave sufficient surrounding material for installation load.
Drainage, powder escape & enclosed cavities
Process-specific trapped material must be considered in hollow or enclosed geometry.
- Explain whether cavities are functional or weight-saving.
- Allow access for cleaning or powder removal where needed.
- Confirm with engineering review before freezing the design.
Critical dimensions & FAI
A print can look good and still fail an assembly requirement.
- Mark critical dimensions explicitly.
- State inspection method where important.
- Use first-article approval before a repeat batch when risk justifies it.