This SAF 3D printing best practices guide aims to help engineers design quality and cost-effective parts. For production using a SAF 3D printing service and the Stratasys® H350™ 3D printer.
As with other manufacturing techniques, the 3D printing process can be challenging and demands a level of expertise and familiarization. The guide provides information for both new and experienced users.
The topics covered in this guide describe tools and methods for optimizing design features, strength, and durability of printed parts, and ensuring that the parts meet your expectations. It provides best practices and tips on designing for additive manufacturing, and examples of how to take advantage of unique SAF 3D printing features to get the most out the technology, while minimizing printing costs and post-processing issues.
SAF™ technology has advantages over other 3D printing technologies because support structures are not required. Overhangs and other features, which may require additional supports in other technologies, are supported by the underlying and surrounding unfused powder.
Included in the SAF 3D Printing Best Practices Guide
- Design for SAF Technology
- Complex Structures
- Hollow Geometries
- Holes and Negative Features
- Fine Features
- Upstands and Columns
- Interlocking Parts
- Limits and Fits
- Clearance Fits
- Cantilevers and Filleting
- Text and Labels
- Screw Threads
- Fine Feature Example
- Preprinting Considerations
- Nomenclature
- Bounding Box
- Build Density
- Nesting
- Part Orientation
- Aesthetics: surface finish and color uniformity
- Curved and Sharp Features
- Stair Stepping (Build Lines)
- Raised Edges
- Assemblies
- Joining Parts
- Potential for Warp
- Dimensional Accuracy Considerations
- Part Hollowing
- Using Honeycombs
- Using a Fusing Box
- Adjusting Bed Temperature
- General Considerations
- When to adjust surface temperature
- Finishing
- Media Blasting
- Tumbling and Vibratory Finishing
- Dyeing
- Physio-Chemical Smoothing
- Sanding
- Drilling
- Painting
- Gluing
Download the guide to learn more about SAF 3D Printing and visit our SAF Service page for features and benefits of Selective Absorption Fusion powder-based 3D printing.
