How Do I Check the Size of My 3D Printed Object?

You can determine the size of your 3D printed object by directly measuring the finished print or by using a reference object within your design software before printing.

Knowing the precise dimensions of your 3D prints is crucial for verifying accuracy, ensuring parts fit together correctly, or confirming the object fits within a specific space. Here are straightforward methods to help you ascertain your print's dimensions.

Methods for Checking 3D Print Size

There are primary ways to check the size of your 3D printed object, depending on whether the object has already been printed or if you are estimating its footprint before printing.

1. Measuring the Physical Print

Once your object is printed, the most direct method is to use a measuring tool.

• Using a Measuring Tool: This involves using a measuring tool on each part to check if the object is of the correct size. Tools like digital calipers are ideal for this as they provide precise measurements of external and internal dimensions, as well as depth.

  • Steps:
    1. Allow the print to cool completely to avoid warping.
    2. Use calipers or a ruler to measure key dimensions (length, width, height, hole diameters, wall thickness).
    3. Compare these measurements to the intended dimensions from your 3D model file.
  • Practical Insight: Small discrepancies are common due to material properties and printer calibration. Significant differences may indicate scaling issues, slicer settings problems, or printer calibration errors.

2. Estimating Size Using a Reference Object (Before Printing)

To get an idea of the object's approximate size and how much space it will occupy on the build plate before printing, you can use a digital method.

• Using a Reference Cube: Another technique is to create a cube you know the dimensions of outside of your model. When your object is inside the cube, you obtain the approximate area occupied by your object in the machine's tray. This method is typically done in your 3D modeling software or slicing software.

  • Steps:
    1. Create or import a simple cube object with known, easy-to-reference dimensions (e.g., 100mm x 100mm x 100mm).
    2. Import your 3D object into the same digital workspace.
    3. Place your object next to or inside the reference cube.
    4. Visually compare the size of your object relative to the cube to get an estimate of its overall dimensions and footprint.
  • Practical Insight: This technique doesn't give exact measurements but is useful for a quick visual check, especially for confirming if a large object will fit within your printer's build volume. Most slicing software also displays the object's bounding box dimensions, offering a more precise pre-print size check.

By employing these methods, you can effectively check the dimensions of your 3D prints, whether you're verifying post-print accuracy or estimating print size beforehand.