Why print shop aids?
Fixtures are one-off tools shaped around specific parts. Machining them is slow and expensive; printing them lets you model the nest directly from the part’s CAD and change it when the part changes.
Design tips
- Model the part as a cutter and offset the cavity by a small clearance (often 0.2–0.5 mm) so parts drop in and out easily.
- Add metal where it wears. Drill guides should use press-fit steel bushings; tell us if your design includes them.
- Chamfer entry edges so parts locate easily.
- Label it in CAD — embossed part numbers print cleanly.
Material choice
Nylon is tough and wear resistant for fixtures that see daily use. PETG is a solid economical option. ABS/ASA adds heat resistance near hot processes.
Questions
Are 3D printed fixtures accurate enough?+
For many assembly and holding tasks, yes. Mark which surfaces locate the part and we will plan orientation around them. Very tight tolerances may need post-machining or metal inserts.
Last updated October 27, 2026 · NanoArc3D