01Recommended
FDM · PETG
Reasonably tough and wear-resistant with good dimensional stability. A solid default for assembly and inspection jigs.
- Detail
- 2/5
- Strength
- 4/5
- Large parts
- 5/5
- Cost efficiency
- 5/5
Use Case · Jigs & Fixtures
FDMFor jigs and fixtures,
3D printing is the fastest route
Jigs are used every day on the line, but in small quantities with frequent design changes. Printing cuts lead time and cost compared with CNC, and complex shapes cost little extra, which makes it ideal for shop-floor improvements.
Quick answer
Assembly and inspection jigs and fixtures are a good fit for 3D printing, with much shorter lead times and lower cost than CNC machining. Use FDM PETG for general jigs, PC or ABS for repeated loads or heat, and SLA Tough resin for precise inspection jigs; give contact faces 0.1–0.3 mm clearance and verify with one or two pieces first.
By Seo Jeongju, CEO of WOW3DLast updated First published
Recommended process & material
02Strength & heat
FDM · PC / ABS
For heavy repeated loads or jigs near hot-air or drying processes, use PC or ABS.
- Detail
- 2/5
- Strength
- 4/5
- Large parts
- 5/5
- Cost efficiency
- 5/5
03Precise locating
SLA resin · Tough resin
Inspection jigs that locate small parts precisely benefit from the higher accuracy of SLA.
- Detail
- 5/5
- Strength
- 3/5
- Large parts
- 3/5
- Cost efficiency
- 3/5
General tendencies on a 5-point scale. Real results depend on geometry, size and material.
Design checklist
4 items- 1
Give contact faces 0.1–0.3mm clearance, and test-fit one or two units before ordering more.
- 2
Orient the design so loads run across rather than along the layer lines to avoid delamination.
- 3
For high-wear locating pins and bushings, design pockets for pressed-in metal pins to extend life.
- 4
Thick block-shaped jigs can be printed with infill to save weight and cost.
Sample price
Two 120×80×30mm jigs (FDM)
- Example size
- 120×80×30mm
- Recommended method
- FDM
- Quantity
- 2 pcs
- Shape
- Solid part
We have pre-filled the price calculator with 120×80×30mm. Change the size, material and quantity to compare prices.
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Real Output
Real 3D printing work by WOW3D
Parts we printed in-house on FDM, SLA and DLP machines. See more in the print gallery.
Arduino product enclosure
FDM · PLA
Architecture graduation model parts
FDM · PLA
Mac mini storage tray
FDM · PLA
Small electronic components
FDM · PETG
Frequently asked questions
QCan printed jigs replace machined metal ones?
Most assembly, inspection and storage jigs without heavy loads can be replaced. Metal is still better under direct cutting forces or high heat; tell us the use case and we will help you decide.
QI only have a drawing, not a 3D file.
We can model it from 2D drawings or measurements. Use our modeling service.
QIs the unit price lower for multiple jigs?
Yes. Setup cost is shared across units, so the unit price drops. Change the quantity in the calculator to compare.