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 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 tips per material:
Material and Technology |
Recommendation for hinge design |
Recommendation for building orientation |
|
Polyamide (SLS) Polypropylene (SLS) |
Thickness: 0,4 mm (0,3-0,5 mm as outer limits) Length: 6 mm |
Build hinge horizontally (in XY plane) |
Polyamide (MJF) |
Thickness: 0,5 mm Length: 6 mm (max 25 mm) |
Do not build hinge parallel to Z plane |
Tip for first use after print
Prior to first use, the hinge should be submerged in warm water and bent carefully, this will enable the best possible durability of the hinge.