A living hinge is a flexible feature of a plastic part which allows movement of two segments of the part. It can be used for example to enable the closing of a connected lid.
In 3D printing the most important factors for achieving a good result for living hinges are:
- choice of technology and material
- design of the hinge and
- the printing orientation.
Design and orientation recommendations per material
Technology and material |
Dimensions |
Design and building orientation |
|
SLS PA12
|
Thickness: 0.4 - 1 mm
Length: 6 mm
|
- Design the hinge of the 3D part in a flat, uncurved position to minimize stretching forces during use.
- Orient the hinge parallel to the XY plane for building.
- Order the part with checking the box: 'Keep model orientation'.
|
| SLS PP |
Thickness: 0.4* - 1 mm
Length: 6 mm |
- Design the hinge of the 3D part in a flat, uncurved position to minimize stretching forces during use.
- Orient the hinge parallel to the XY plane for building
- Order the part with checking the box: 'Keep model orientation'.
*In PP all structures with thicknesses under 0.8 mm will physically only be built correctly when they are designed uncurved and oriented parallel to the XY plane for building. Therefore the first 2 tips are mandatory for hinges in PP with wall thicknesses between 0.4-0.8 mm.
|
MJF PA12 |
Thickness: 0.5 mm
Length: 6 mm (max. 25 mm)
|
- Design the hinge of the 3D part in a flat, uncurved position to minimize stretching forces during use.
-
Do not orient the hinge parallel to a Z plane for building.
|
Example for hinge design in PA12
Tip for first use after print
Prior to first use, the hinge should be submerged in warm water and bent carefully, this will enable best possible durability of the hinge.