- What do I upload for an FDM quote?
- Upload your 3D CAD (STEP or STL works best). If you have a drawing, include what's critical (datums, fits, holes, sealing faces), visible faces and where marks are OK, loads, environment (temperature/chemicals), quantity, and whether you need inserts, machining or an inspection report.
- How do you manage strength in FDM parts?
- We plan orientation and perimeter/infill strategy around load paths because FDM properties are directional. For torque/clamp loads, we often recommend heat-set inserts or post-machined interfaces rather than relying on printed threads.
- How do you control warp on larger parts?
- We combine geometry review, orientation, temperature control and material choice. With plastics that tend to warp (ABS/PC) we adjust the part and the print to reduce temperature differences and curl.
- Can you hit tight fits and hole tolerances with FDM?
- Critical fits usually need an extra operation. We print with allowance and then drill/ream or lightly machine critical holes and datums when your assembly needs repeatable alignment. Use our ISO 2768 chart and tap drill calculator when you define mating features.
- Do you do inserts and secondary ops?
- Yes. We install heat-set inserts, tap, drill/ream and lightly machine critical datums, plus surface prep and the finish you ask for.
- What drives cost in FDM printing?
- The biggest factors are material, part volume, orientation and supports, print time, finishing, and whether critical features need inserts or machining.
