Print-in-place 3D printable models are objects with moveable parts that can be printed as a single piece.
There are loads of examples of excellent print-in-place 3D printables around the web.
But before we dive in, let’s double-check your printer is configured properly.
Tolerances are crucial when 3D printing print-in-place parts.
Keep this in mind no matter the punch in of printer you use.
you could learn more inour article on FDM printer parameters.
Now let’s dive into some specific tweaks.
A wider nozzle will struggle to produce the fine detail required for moving joints and other moving parts.
Its always best to 3D print print-in-place parts at the scale they are designed for.
3D Printer Temperature
Different 3D printer materials react in different ways to heat.
Some filaments will suffer under or over extrusion at the wrong temperatures, causing moving parts to fail.
Smooth moving parts will show that your temperature is just right.
Support Materials
Some slicer software places supports better than others.
Now with that out of the way, let’s get printing.
1.3D Printable Print-in-Place Gear Bearing
3D printing a standard ball bearing tends to come with bad results.
FDM 3D printers arent great at printing spheres, and adding metal balls adds to the construction time.
This 3D printable gear bearing solves this problem, replacing balls with gears that lock together.
Whats best, though, is that this part is a print-in-place part.
Unless using high-strength filament materials this bearing is best as a fidget toy and wont perform well under load.
2.Print-in-Place 3D Printable Collapsing Katana
Picture the light saber toys you saw as a child.
The ones with telescoping blades that extend with a flick of your wrist.
The blade is made from 5 segments that nestle comfortably inside the katanas handle.
The sword can be printed collapsed, making it suitable for the smallest of printers.
3.Print-in-Place Action Pliers
This next print-in-place project melds functionality with fun.
5.Spring-Loaded Print-in-Place Boxes
This next design is as smart as it is useful.
This is another piece that can be scaled up to give you different results.
Of course, though, like other print-in-place parts, you should avoid scaling this one down.
Print-in-Place Flexible Animals
Print-in-place dragons became a viral sensation in 2021.
3D printing is an ever-growing field with endless potential.
Of course, though, they also present a design challenge that will broaden your skills.
