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3D printing threaded holes


3D Printing Threads and Adding Threaded Inserts to 3D Printed Parts (With Video)

There are many ways to attach screws to 3D printed parts, including inserts, tapping, and even 3D printed screw threads.

Screws are among the most popular fasteners in any material. Can you use off-the-shelf screws with your 3D printed parts? The answer is a clear yes, for both stereolithography (SLA) and selective laser sintering (SLS) parts.

In this article, we explore different methods of using metal screws with 3D printed parts, and provide some tips for incorporating screw threads directly into your 3D design.

Watch our application video about 3D printing threads and threaded inserts for 3D printed plastics.

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Let’s take a look at the various design options for 3D printed threads, which we’ve collected over the years within Formlabs and based on feedback from our customers. Our test part is designed to showcase all these methods at once:

We’ve grouped these options based on the type of fastening, with pros and cons of each option listed for different use cases.

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In this section, we look at three ways to incorporate inserts and nuts into your completed 3D prints for strong, long-lasting fastening that stands up to multiple cycles of assembly and disassembly.

Pros

  • Very good hold into 3D printed parts

  • Metal threads are strong and wear-resistant

  • Installs with a simple press fit

Screw-to-expand inserts are cylindrical, with a slight taper and knurling on the exterior surfaces. During the design stage, incorporate a boss with a depth and diameter based on the insert’s specs into your part. Print and post-process the part as normal, following the usual steps for SLA or SLS post-processing, taking care to make sure no extra material remains inside the cavity, and install the insert with a simple press fit. Adding a screw will press the knurled surface into the surrounding printed material, creating a strong friction fit.

Tip for using screw-to-expand inserts with 3D printed parts made with SLA 3D printing: Wash the part as normal, insert the screw-to-expand insert, install a screw, and post-cure the part with the screw in place. Saving this step for last reduces the chance that the insert will crack the surrounding material when expanded.

Heat-set threaded inserts are designed to be installed into thermoplastics using a soldering iron with an installation tip. They can also be used as glue-in inserts in thermoset materials, such as SLA parts. 

To install in a thermoplastic part, like one printed with SLS Powders, follow the installation instructions for your particular hardware. The typical process is to use a soldering iron, with or without a special attachment, to heat the insert, which conducts heat into the surrounding plastic. The surrounding material softens and, by pressing down with the soldering iron, you can gently press the insert into the printed part. Be sure to allow enough time for the material to cool down and regain strength before installing a screw.

To install in a thermoset part, like one printed with SLA Resins, glue can be used to hold a heat-set insert in place. Unlike with traditional installation, make sure to design your boss to match the widest diameter of the insert, and use a bead of cyanoacrylate (CA) glue or epoxy to hold it in place when installed. Be sure to allow enough time for your glue to fully cure before installing a screw.

Note: In the SLS 3D printed part photographed for this article, the boss is sized for a press-fit, as we recommend here for thermoset plastics. This also works, with a drop of glue or epoxy, for thermoplastic parts, but won’t have as strong a hold as a true heat-set installation.

Although an additional step of soldering or gluing is required, heat-set threaded inserts for both SLS and SLA parts offer improved security and strength compared to screw-to-expand inserts With either method, these are a great option to gain a little extra security and strength compared to screw-to-expand inserts, although the additional step and equipment may be inconvenient.

Cons

  • Pocket or boss needs to be designed into the part, and accessible after printing

  • Depending on geometry, may require glue and curing time

Designing a pocket or boss that securely holds a nut into the part itself is another method to get metal-on-metal contact. Hexagonal or square nuts can be used, and even locking nuts are possible to accommodate. There are many design variations for this method—just make sure your pocket or boss is easily accessible (i.e. not on an interior surface) so that the nut can be installed. For extra security, a drop of cyanoacrylate (CA) glue will hold the nut in place.

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For speed and simplicity, it might be preferable to forego inserts and nuts in favor of screwing directly into a 3D printed part. Whether tapping threads or using a self-tapping screw, off-the-shelf hardware designed for use with plastics work well with 3D printed materials like resins and thermoplastic powders.

Using a thread tap designed for plastic is a quick, economical way to add screw threads to 3D printed parts. It doesn’t require any extra design steps, and most shops that work with plastics will already have the equipment required.

Self-tapping screws, also called thread-forming screws, can be inserted into a negative feature with no preparation work done to the part. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for boss dimensions. 

It’s suggested to use these with materials that are ductile, or have high elongation. Formlabs Nylon 11 Powder or Nylon 12 Powder are both suitable for this, as are the Tough and Durable Resins in the Formlabs SLA material family. Brittle materials, or those with low elongation (such as the Rigid Resins in the Formlabs SLA material family), may crack when used with self-tapping screws, so take caution and wear eye protection when using these materials.

Including threaded geometries in your printed part can be effective if you follow certain guidelines. Stick to larger thread sizes, at least  ¼”–20 (imperial) or M6 (metric) or larger; reduce stress concentrations with fillets; and use thread profiles that are designed for plastics. For smaller screws, the threads should be customized to create a better fastener. For example, printing a semi-circular thread profile (on screw and nut) and using a 0.1 mm offset gives better thread engagement with improved wear characteristics.  

SLA and SLS 3D printing are generally preferable for this method over FDM, because they are more precise and can create parts with a smoother surface finish. Any material with particularly low surface friction, such as Durable Resin, is less likely to show wear over multiple cycles of assembly and disassembly.

When preparing your part for printing, it's important to minimize support structures on any threaded surfaces to ensure your parts will come together smoothly without additional post-processing.

There are many options for combining multiple 3D printed components using screws and threaded fasteners. From directly 3D printing threads to using off the shelf inserts, you can choose any of the methods outlined above, based on the chosen material, the number of cycles of assembly and disassembly you anticipate, the strength required, and the amount of extra steps your workflow can accommodate.

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How do you assemble 3D-printed parts? Practical tips on threads & screws for 3D printing

What are the ideal ways to assemble 3D-printed components? This article compares different methods for designing threads for 3D printing and provides step-by-step instructions on how to install screws and other fasteners.

Threaded fasteners, such as screws and inserts, are a popular method for securing 3D-printed parts together. Threaded fasteners allow quick assembly and disassembly, granted the threading has been designed and printed properly, and provide robust connectivity so parts don’t come apart easily.

This article covers the optimal threaded fastening techniques to apply when dealing with 3D-printed parts and examines the methodology behind implementing each of them.

To learn more about the different types of threads, especially if you're also interested in CNC machining custom parts, read our extensive guide to threads .

What are threaded fasteners for 3D printing?

As a rule of thumb the minimum wall thickness around a thread should match the diameter of the fastener (e.g. an M5 fastener requires a minimum of 5mm wall thickness around the threaded hole). If the wall thickness is too low, parts can bulge and distort due to the added stress and in some cases (particularly with FDM) delamination or fracturing can occur.

The table below introduces the threaded fastening methods that are best suited to 3D printing.

Process Description
Inserts Popular method used regularly that gives a strong metal-on-metal connection but requires additional components and installation
__Embedded nut __ Fast method for securing components. Accurate design and print are needed
Self-tapping screws One-off method for securing parts that is not optimal for repeated disassembly
__Cutting threads __ Provides design freedom however correct tapping procedure is important
__Printing threads __ Not suited for small threads (less than M5) and requires high printer detail/resolution to print accurately

Note: Drilling the pilot or alignment hole to the desired diameter post-printing, before implementing any of the fastening methods discussed in this article, will typically give a more accurate diameter compared to a 3D-printed hole.

What are inserts for 3D print assemblies?

The two types of inserts that are best suited for 3D printing are heat-set inserts and tap-in inserts. Inserts provide strong metal-on-metal contact and are very easy to install. An accurate pilot hole is required, so drilling is recommended before installation.

Methodology for heat-set inserts

  1. Align the insert with the pre-printed or drilled hole (for hole sizes refer to the insert manufacturer's recommendations)

  2. Insert a soldering iron into the insert, heating it and the surrounding material up (avoid overheating and melting the surrounding material)

  3. Slowly apply pressure, pushing the insert down into the hole to the desired depth.

Methodology for tap-in inserts 

  1. Align the insert with the pre-printed or drilled hole (for hole sizes refer to the insert manufacturer's recommendations)

  2. Using a hammer gently tap the insert down into the hole to the desired depth.

What is an embedded nut in 3D printing?

Another method of securing 3D printed components together is to embed a nut into the component via a nut-shaped cavity (often referred to as a nut boss). This method does not require any material removal. Often determining the optimal nut boss dimensions requires several iterations. Printing small test parts to determine the ideal dimensions can save on time and material costs.

Methodology for embedded nuts

  1. Measure your nut. If you do not have access to the nut a quick internet search will reveal standard overall dimensions for both metric and imperial nuts.

  2. Include the desired nut profile in your CAD model . An iterative process may be required to find the best nut clearance based on printer calibration. As a starting point a 0.2 mm offset around the nut (0.1 mm on each side) should give a loose fit. This also may need to be increased for nuts greater than M12.

  3. Select the appropriate cut-out depth (typically just below flush).

  4. Including a drop of superglue on the back side of the nut will help secure it in place.

What are self-tapping screws?

Self-tapping screws cut a thread into a pre-drilled hole as they are screwed down. This offers a quick assembly method but is not suited for applications where parts will regularly be assembled/disassembled. Special self-tapping screws for plastic can be used that limit the radial stress on 3D printed holes lowering the likelihood of bulging, delamination or fracturing occurring.

Methodology for self-tapping screws

  1. 3D print or drill a hole in the desired screw location. For optimal pilot hole size consult the self-tapping screw provider. A pilot hole size that provides 75% to 80% thread engagement is a good starting point if this information is difficult to come by.

  2. Assemble components to be secured ensuring to correctly align all holes where the self-tapping screws will be used.

  3. Slowly screw the self-tapping screw down into the hole, ensuring it remains perpendicular to the hole during fastening.

Closeup of a self-tapping screw on a 3D-printed part

What is thread cutting (or cutting a thread) for 3D printing?

Thread cutting (more commonly known as tapping) involves using a tap wrench to cut a thread in a pre-printed or drilled hole. Threads are regularly cut in 3D printed plastics.

Methodology

  1. 3D print or drill a hole in the required location of the thread. For pilot hole (tap drill) sizes that correspond to each thread size refer here

  2. Using the correct size tap wrench and ensuring it remains perpendicular to the hole, slowly cut the thread regularly reversing or “backing off” to remove excess material to avoid binding.

  3. Avoid forcing the tap wrench as this can lead to fractures or splitting of the 3D printed material.

  4. Continue tapping to the desired depth.

Insert your desired threaded fastener before assembly to ensure a clean fit.

Cutting a thread with a tap wrench

3D printing threads for assembly

The process of 3D printing threads eliminates the need for any extra steps post printing and allows parts to quickly be assembled together. Limitations on printer accuracy and resolution will govern the success of a printed thread. Threads smaller than M5 printed via FDM should be avoided with one of the other threaded fastener methods discussed in this article implemented instead.

After printing the threaded fastener should be screwed and removed from the hole several times to clean the printed thread before final assembly.

Practical advice for threads, screws & more assembly methods for 3D printing

  • For a more accurate fastener pilot hole consider drilling the hole after printing rather than printing it in the part.

  • The minimum wall thickness around a thread should match the diameter of the fastener (e.g. an M5 fastener requires a minimum of 5mm wall thickness around the threaded hole).

  • Heat-up or tap-in inserts and embedded nuts are the most popular methods for securing 3D printed components due to their simple installation, connection strength (metal-on-metal) and ease of repeated assembly and disassembly.

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3D printer threads and thread inserts for plastic

At Formlabs, we design various functional parts for printing on our stereolithography (SLA) 3D printers such as the Form 3. These parts include prototypes used for our own R&D, clips and fasteners to be used on our production lines, models to check the design before casting the final product in the appropriate material, such as nylon.

Regardless of the application, we often need to connect 3D printed components with screws and threaded fasteners. As the catalog of versatile and reliable engineering polymers grows, the differences between "imitation" prototypes and functional prototypes diminish.

This article is a guide to threading and threading 3D parts with a 3D printer. There are many ways to connect multiple 3D printed parts together, but if you need the ability to repeatedly connect and disconnect components and secure mechanical fastening, there is no real substitute for metal screws.

Do you like to see everything with your own eyes? Watch a video about 3D printing threaded connections and threaded inserts for 3D plastic parts.

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Let's take a look at some of the threading options for 3D parts we've put together based on years of Formlabs experience and your suggestions. We've ranked these options, starting with the one we think is the best, with the pros and cons of each option for different use cases.

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Benefits: Strongly connects 3D printed parts without the use of glue. The metal threads are durable and reusable.

Drawbacks: Inserts may loosen as temperature rises.

3D print a sleeve blank with a depth and diameter that matches the insert specifications. Rinse with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and allow to dry without final polymerization. Insert the insert into the sleeve with a screwdriver and use the screw to secure it completely into the plastic. Then finish curing the part to reduce the creep effect and fix the insert in the plastic even better. Performing this step last reduces the chance that the insert will break the sleeve when screwed in.

Benefits: Connects 3D printed parts very securely. The metal threads are durable and reusable.

Cons: Adhesive required (don't try to use a soldering iron!).

Threaded inserts with heat setting are designed for installation in thermoplastics using a soldering iron with a soldering tip. They can be used in acrylic models and Fused Deposition Models (FDM), but cannot be installed in SLA photopolymer parts, which bend but do not melt when heated.

Check out our detailed guide comparing FDM vs. SLA 3D printers to see how they differ in terms of print quality, materials, application, workflow, speed, cost, and more.

However, the notches and ridges on the heat set inserts make them a very effective thread fastener if you bond them with a two part epoxy or cyanoacrylate adhesive. Determine the bushing size by the largest diameter of the insert and apply some adhesive before installation. For best results, the part must be completely dry and cured.

Benefits: Nuts are easy to match to any required screw size.

Drawbacks: Side nut slots can eliminate the need for glue, but can make it harder to support the model during printing.

The addition of a hexagon socket on the nut press-fit end creates a reusable strong metal-to-metal connection. To increase the twisting force, you can choose a square nut. This nut can also be plastic or have blocking elements. If necessary, a drop of cyanoacrylate glue will help hold the nut in place, but if the design includes a side socket, the need for glue is eliminated. Use a 0.1 mm offset around the press-in nut and clearance around the screw itself.

Benefits: Prototyping uses the same metal products as mass-produced injection molded parts. Sleeve blanks made from Tough (and Durable) polymer are unlikely to crack if you follow the screw manufacturer's sleeve design guidelines.

Disadvantages: The screws will hold tight, but the threads will not be as resistant to repeated use as metal threads. Standard resins can be used, but the bushing is more likely to crack.

Follow manufacturer's recommendations for core sizes and print with high impact engineering resins (such as our Tough Resin and Durable Resin). Before using the screws, complete the final curing. If you are prototyping an injection molded part that will use tapping or tapping screws in its final assembly, this is a good option for testing.

Benefits: No need to buy special plastic screws.

Disadvantages: The screws will hold tight, but the threads will not be as resistant to repeated use as metal threads.

We have tested screws in our Tough Resin product and found that their use is identical to that of threading screws designed for plastics. The size of the hole diameter of the threaded bushing must be in the range between the main (threaded) diameter of the screw and the inner diameter. The screw shown is a #8 screw in a 0.16" diameter hole.

Benefits: Can be used for prototyping large and custom threaded designs.

Disadvantages: Not a durable or reusable fastening solution, especially for smaller thread sizes.

3D printed threads from standard resins are better than Tough Resins because they are much harder. 3D printed threads remain relatively brittle, depending on the size of the thread, and are not recommended if the fastening system is to be used continuously and repeatedly.

Thread sizes ¼-20 or larger are generally functional without the need for post-processing. For smaller screws, the threads must be modified to provide better fastening. For example, printing a round thread profile (on a screw and a nut) and using a 0. 1mm offset results in a better thread fit and improved wear characteristics. For all screw sizes, it is best to orient the parts so that the supporting structures do not touch the threads.

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We hope this guide has provided you with useful information about the mechanical mounting options that can be used for 3D printed components! If you are interested in seeing the model we use for testing, please download the STL file.

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Parts mentioned in this manual can be ordered from McMaster using the links below:

  • M3 insert with heat setting for plastic
  • Brass M3 screw-in insert for plastic
  • Galvanized steel hex nut M3
  • Galvanized steel hex nut M4
  • Threading screw 4-20 for plastic

Want to try Tough Resin, Durable Resin or any other Formlabs 3D printing material in action? Request a free sample!

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Threaded connections in 3D models

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Often when printing one or another complex model, for example, a case or a mounting bracket, the task arises to use a threaded connection, so that it would be convenient to repeatedly assemble / disassemble the final product in the future.

Of course, the first and perhaps the simplest solution is to cut the thread with a tap in plastic. But such connections usually withstand a small number of assembly / disassembly cycles. This is especially true when a prototype is being developed, where in the process of its creation a large number of assembly and disassembly cycles occur with constant fine-tuning of certain nodes.

Surely many people already know about insert nuts and use them in their practice. But I'm sure many novice printers didn't even look in that direction. I can only add that in some cases, the use of such nuts is very simple and convenient, and installing them in the model is not difficult. To do this, you need a regular soldering iron, with which such nuts can easily fit into pre-prepared holes.

In my work, in most cases, I use such fasteners, it allows you to repeatedly assemble or disassemble the prototype, while the connection remains strong. It does not have to be repaired by pouring dissolved plastic if ABS is used.

Following the link to the video, an example of using nuts-inserts, this is a prototype of a table for photographing objects at 360 degrees https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hnw2Jbkh3c0 (see from the second minute), you can also see the process there installing these nuts. The table during the development process had to be disassembled and reassembled so many times that it was impossible to count, and of course there was no damage to the layout.

And these are just a few photos with application examples:

(top cooling for MKS-Base, the model can be viewed here: link )

where the direction of the teeth is in different directions. The second type is better, but also more expensive, sometimes significantly. I settled on straight lines, the simplest. They are pretty solid in the plastic. These nuts are also divided into 2 types: with a through threaded hole and a deaf one. They can also be used to create handle nuts (see below)...

It is also often necessary to use nylon or brass posts. In our market, their price for 1 piece is like in China for a dozen, or even a hundred. Therefore, I recommend looking in this direction.

These are just some examples, I am sure those who wish will find fasteners of any shape for every taste and size.

Insert nut (brass) - https://goo.gl/CmzUnT

steel - https://goo.gl/n89Ity

Hex socket head screws in stainless steel round head steel - https://goo.gl/Xz1MDe

Nylon racks (set) - https://goo.gl/icVivB

Buying through the CashBack system will be cheaper! More details here - https://cashback.epn.bz/ru/

Of course, one cannot fail to note the frequently used method of threading with a regular hex nut, as in the following example:

(part of a vice for mini CNC, the model can be viewed here: link)

But such a connection requires additional space/thickness and an undesirable structural weakening of the wall of the object in order to place its nut inside.

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