Welcome to the Dust Fit recommendations page! Here you'll find guidelines and tips for 3D printing your custom connectors, optimizing model parameters, and ensuring a successful print every time.
Where to Print
- Locally:
- Search online: Search for “3D printing services near me” or "custom 3D print shop" on Google Maps.
- Libraries or Universities: Some public libraries and university innovation centers have 3D printers available to the public.
- Maker spaces: Many community maker spaces offer 3D printing services or allow you to use their equipment. Or check out makerspaces.make.co to search for one near you.
- Online:
- Craftcloud by All3DP: craftcloud3d.com – Compares prices across multiple 3D printing providers.
- Treatstock: treatstock.com – Marketplace for local and global 3D print vendors.
- Sculpteo: sculpteo.com – Offers a wide range of materials and finishing options.
- Others Do you have a provider that you love to use? Let us know!
- Locally:
Material Selection
- PLA: Good for quick prototypes and low-stress applications. Easy to print.
- PETG: Better chemical resistance, slightly more flexible—ideal for airflow connectors.
- ABS: High heat resistance, durable, but requires an enclosure to prevent warping.
Print Orientation & Supports
- Straight Connectors: Print standing up with a taper of 45° or less to print without supports. A flat connector type reduces the overall size but increases support requirements and has less efficient airflow.
- Elbow Fittings: Orient with the bend facing upward at 45° or less to reduce or eliminate support volume inside the elbow.
- Port Assemblies: Print ports port-side down to print without supports.
Layer Height & Infill
- Layer Height: 0.1–0.2 mm for smooth curves and accurate dimensions.
- Infill: 20–30% grid or gyroid for a balance of strength and material savings.
- Perimeters: 3–4 walls to ensure sufficient thickness for press-fit connectors.
Wall Thickness & Tolerances
- Maintain a minimum wall thickness of 2 mm (~.08") for PLA and 3 mm (~.12") for PETG/ABS.
- Include a clearance of 0.2–0.5 mm (~.01–.02") for press-fit joints depending on your printer's calibration.
- Use Dust Fit’s thickness parameter thoughtfully: avoid values below 1.5× your nozzle diameter.
Model Sizing & Units
- All dimensions are generated in mm. When you select Inches, please set your slicer to Import as Imperial Units. The units setting is there as a reminder to you to set your slicer to the correct units. When downloading, the units you choose will be part of the file name.
- Use Dust Fit’s live preview and grid to confirm overall dimensions.
Post-Processing Tips
- Deburring: Remove support marks with a deburring tool.
- Sanding: Lightly sand mating faces to improve fit.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Warping: Use a heated bed (60–70°C for PLA) and adhesive (glue stick, blue tape).
- Stringing: Increase retraction settings and lower printing temperature by 5–10°C.
- Under-Extrusion: Check filament diameter and clean your nozzle regularly.