Gridfinity Hole Cut Gauge Blocks

Model

Included

• 1 2x3 Gridginity housing for 15 1.5"x1.5"x0.5" gauge blocks.
• 6 1" hole gauge blocks with +0.00", +0.01", +0.02" tolerances in both horizontal and vertical orientations
• 6 ¾", ½", and ⅓" hole gauge blocks with +0.00", +0.01", +0.02" tolerances in both horizontal and vertical orientations

Theory

This model allows you to check if the geometry in your CAD mates well with dowels or rods. This tool should reduce the number of prototypes you must make before your 3D-printed model fits its use condition.

• In 3D printing hole cuts tend to swell slightly resulting in the actual hole being smaller than intended. This means a 1-inch hole in CAD will be less than 1 inch in the real world. Usually, the swell is half the width of the extruded material. For example, a part made on your Bambu Lab 0.4 mm nozzle printer will swell approximately 0.2 mm. Shown below is a diagram of the printer nozzle extruding filament. Do is the nozzle diameter and De is the width of the extruded material.

• This swelling can also change depending on orientation. A circular cut along the horizontal can also sag when bridging at the top resulting in a non-uniform circle.

Practical Use

To use this gauge block set, select the 1-inch gauge block and attempt to fit it over the desired object as shown. The number on the side of the block represents the ideal representation of the model in CAD, it does not represent the real-world version of the model.

If it does not fit, continue the process with the next larger block until it fits as in the image below. When you find a gauge block that fits your object, use the measurement number on the side of the gauge block in your CAD.

Included in this set are two of each gauge block. One for a horizontal print orientation and another for a vertical print orientation.

Print Settings

• 25% infill, 6 wall loops for gauge blocks
• 10% infill, 2 wall loops for Gridfinity holder
• PLA, PLA+, PETG
• 100% Print Speed
• No Brim
• Auto tree supports for 25-degree overhangs
• Multi-material optional
• There is no Prime Tower for multi-material

Let me know what you think, or if anything is confusing or wrong with my explanation. Thank you and happy printing!