Functional thread creation in PolyJet 3D Printer parts
Posted by Robert Kiser on Sun, Jan 11, 2009 @ 12:06 PM
Can functional threads be created in a PolyJet part? The answer is yes. If your rapid prototype design has female threads built into it and you plan to use an "off the shelf" metal, plastic, other material male insert, then the female portion in the rapid prototype design must be the same size as the "off the shelf" insert.
If you plan to have the male threaded inserts prototyped, expand the female portion in CAD .005" for very small features and .010" for large features. Then, the threads need to be shrunk .005" or .010" for the male thread portion.
If you already have a feature inside a part that will rotate, whether threaded or not, generally leave a .019" gap in between the walls in order to make the features function.
