Mechanical Calculators

3D printing excels at producing functional mechanical parts, from custom brackets and enclosures to gears, pulleys, and threaded fasteners. Our Thread Calculator generates correct metric thread dimensions following ISO standards, covering common sizes from M3 up to M20. For 3D printed threads, you typically need to add 0.2-0.4 mm of clearance compared to machined parts to account for layer stepping. The Bolt Hole Calculator provides clearance and tapping hole diameters for standard metric bolts, and the Nut Trap Calculator designs hex pockets that let you embed standard nuts securely into printed parts.

Gears and power transmission components are increasingly popular in the UK maker community, used in robotics projects, CNC builds, and custom automation. The Gear Calculator generates spur gear profiles with the correct module, tooth count, and pitch circle diameter, while the Pulley Calculator designs GT2 and other timing belt pulleys with accurate tooth profiles. The Bearing Calculator works out the seat dimensions and tolerances for standard bearings like the ubiquitous 608ZZ, commonly available from UK suppliers like Bearing Boys or Simply Bearings. The Press Fit Calculator determines the correct interference for inserting bearings and bushings into printed housings.

For assemblies that need to clip together without fasteners, the Snap Fit Calculator designs cantilever snap fits with the right deflection, wall thickness, and undercut for reliable engagement. The Hinge Calculator creates print-in-place hinges with the correct pin diameter and clearance gap, typically 0.3-0.5 mm for FDM printers with a 0.4 mm nozzle. The Spring Calculator covers both helical and leaf spring designs for printed mechanisms, calculating coil dimensions and estimated spring constants. These tools are widely used by UK makers building everything from custom RC car parts to assistive devices and educational kits.