Threads

Create screw threads with configurable diameter, pitch, and thread profile. Threads can be used as standalone bolts/screws or subtracted from other objects to create threaded holes.

mechanical_threads

How to Use

  1. Add Threads from the Mechanical tools or Primitives panel
  2. Set the diameter, pitch, and number of rotations
  3. Optionally enable “Use as Hole” for creating threaded holes

Parameters

Usage

  • Use as Hole - When enabled, the threads are sized with extra tolerance for use as a subtracted hole (default: off)
  • Tolerance - Extra clearance for fit when used as a hole (default: 0.2mm, visible when Use as Hole is on)

Attributes

  • Diameter - The outer diameter of the threaded section (default: 10mm)
  • Pitch - Distance between each thread turn (default: 2mm). Smaller pitch = finer threads
  • Thread Scale - Width of the threads as a ratio of the pitch (default: 1.0, range: 0.1-1.0)
  • Rotations - Number of complete thread turns (default: 10)

Geometry

  • Sides - Number of segments around the perimeter (default: 40). More = smoother

Tips (Thread Ends)

  • Tip Scale - How much to taper the thread ends (default: 0, range: 0-1). Set above 0 to create tapered lead-in at the ends
  • Tip Angle - The angle over which to taper the tips (default: 90 degrees)

Tips

  • To create a threaded hole: enable “Use as Hole”, position the threads, and Subtract from your object
  • Add Tolerance when using as a hole to ensure the printed parts fit together
  • Standard metric thread pitches: M3=0.5mm, M4=0.7mm, M5=0.8mm, M6=1.0mm, M8=1.25mm, M10=1.5mm
  • Use Tip Scale to create a lead-in that makes it easier to start threading
  • Gears - Create mechanical gear shapes
  • Cylinder - A plain round column (no threads)
  • Subtract - Cut threads out of other objects to create holes