3D Product Post-Processing & Quality

Question 1

What is 'support removal' in 3D printing post-processing?

Accepted Answer

Physically removing temporary support structures printed alongside the part, using tools or dissolution in solvent

Answer

Support removal involves cutting, pulling, or dissolving (in the case of soluble supports) the temporary structures printed to hold up overhanging geometry during printing.

Question 2

What is 'tolerance' in the context of manufactured parts and assemblies?

Accepted Answer

The allowable dimensional variation from a nominal dimension that still allows a part to function correctly

Answer

Tolerances define the acceptable range of a dimension — for example, a shaft diameter of 10.00mm with a +/-0.05mm tolerance means any value between 9.95 and 10.05mm is acceptable.

Question 3

What quality control method is a 'Coordinate Measuring Machine' (CMM) inspection?

Accepted Answer

A precision measurement system that uses a probe to map physical dimensions of a part against its CAD specification

Answer

CMMs use touch probes or laser scanners to precisely measure physical parts in 3D space, comparing measured dimensions to CAD tolerances to verify conformance.

Question 4

What is 'first article inspection' (FAI) in manufacturing?

Accepted Answer

A thorough dimensional and functional check of the first production parts from a new tool or process to verify conformance before full production

Answer

FAI verifies that a new manufacturing process (like a new injection mold) produces parts that meet all dimensional, functional, and cosmetic requirements before committing to full volume production.

Question 5

What does 'fit, form, and function' mean in product quality assurance?

Accepted Answer

Three fundamental product requirements: that it assembles correctly (fit), looks as designed (form), and performs its intended purpose (function)

Answer

Fit, form, and function is a quality shorthand ensuring a part: mates properly with adjacent components (fit), has correct geometry and appearance (form), and performs its intended job (function).

3D Product Practice Test

3D Product Practice Test

3D Product Post-Processing & Quality