Here is my design for straightforward replacements for wooden dowels. I created them specifically for the FFF process to be printed using PLA or PETG materials. If printed with the correct settings and orientation, these dowels serve as a suitable replacement.
Dimensions
The part number and file name have the following format:LR2240-T<tolerance>-D<diameter>-L<length>.3mf
Tolerance
The tolerance is a value between 0 and 100, where 50 is the midpoint, meaning zero tolerance, which is standard for a press-fit.
| Tolerance Index | Diameter Adjustment |
|---|---|
| T40 | +0.1mm |
| T50 | 0.0mm |
| T60 | -0.1mm |
| T70 | -0.2mm |
I provide models with these tolerances to accommodate low-quality prints.
Diameter
The diameter represents the nominal diameter of the dowel in millimeters.
Length
Length corresponds to the length of the dowel in millimeters.
About the Design
The design is nothing out of the ordinary; it’s a simple cylinder with a flat side optimized for the best printability. There is a waved groove in the dowel, which allows minimal deformation without affecting its integrity.
As PLA can permanently deform under pressure, this wave design helps in maintaining enough force to prevent the dowel from slipping out of its position after a few weeks. The shearing resistance is comparable to wood, although wood is superior to PLA when it comes to withstanding hard hits. For dowels that need to endure impacts, consider using PETG or ASA.
