The fully leverage the benefits of metal 3D printing, parts to be printed must be especially design for this manufacturing technique.

As you design your part, consider how it can be optimized for the printing process. Below are four considerations to keep in mind when designing.

1. Identify critical dimensions

3D printers have higher precision in planes parallel to the build plate. What are your critical dimensions or features?

2. Maximize bed contact

Greater surface area on the print bed minimizes supports and improves bed adhesion. Which face of your part contacts the bed?

3. Reduce supports

Fewer supports reduce printing and processing time.

How can you design to minimize supports? Are the supports in your part accessible?

4. Consider batch processing

The more parts you can pack into a sintering run, the lower batch cost you have per part. How will your part pack among others in the furnace?

Further considerations

Remember, each temporary support must be removed, so keep those supports accessible, or remove them if possible. Post-processing is another significant factor. Component assembly and material needs to be accounted for.

Thankfully, Markforged's Metal X Design Guide (.pdf) is a comprehensive walkthrough of preparing components for Metal X manufacturing.