3D Scanning and Printing

Printer Used

For this design rule test, we used the FlashForge Creator 3 Pro, a dual-extruder industrial-grade FDM printer available in our Fab Lab. The printer is known for its enclosed build volume, reliable performance, and support for engineering-grade materials.

Objective

The goal was to evaluate the design limitations and capabilities of the FlashForge Creator 3 Pro by testing

Overhang and bridging limits
Minimum wall thickness
Tolerance between moving/fitting parts
Dimensional accuracy
Print resolution for small features

Overhang

Clearance

Angle

Surface Finish

Parameter	Value
Layer Height	0.2 mm
Nozzle Diameter	0.4 mm
Print Speed	50 mm/s
Infill	0.2
Material Used	PLA
Bed Temperature	60°C
Nozzle Temperature	200°C
Cooling Fan	On (after first 2 layers)

Feature	CAD Size	Measured Size	Deviation
Cube	20 mm	19.85 mm	-0.15 mm
Hole Diameter	5 mm	4.72 mm	-0.28 mm
Wall Thickness	1 mm	0.97 mm	-0.03 mm
Clearance (fit)	0.3 mm	Slide fit ok	—

Observations

Cooling and print speed greatly affect bridge and overhang quality.
PLA is suitable for clean test prints; for accuracy-critical parts, use test prints to determine your lab's tolerance offset.
Holes and mechanical clearances should include 0.3 mm – 0.4 mm extra to ensure proper fitting in assemblies.

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