Skip to content

3D Printable PCB Cheatsheet

3D Printable PCB Cheatsheet

Overview

3D printable PCBs are a revolutionary way to create electronic circuits using additive manufacturing. This technology allows for rapid prototyping, complex geometries, and integrated electronic components, opening up new possibilities for hardware design.

Key Concepts

  • Additive Manufacturing: Building up objects layer by layer, as opposed to traditional subtractive methods.
  • Conductive Filament: Special 3D printing filament that can conduct electricity.
  • Dual Extrusion: Using a 3D printer with two extruders to print both conductive and non-conductive materials in the same print.
  • Integrated Electronics: Embedding electronic components directly into the 3D printed object.

Design Software

  • KiCad: Open-source PCB design software.
  • Fusion 360: Professional CAD software with PCB design and 3D modeling capabilities.
  • FreeCAD: Open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler.
  • Tinkercad: Browser-based 3D design tool for beginners.

Slicing Software

  • PrusaSlicer: Advanced open-source slicer with support for multi-material printing.
  • Cura: Popular open-source slicer with a wide range of features.

Printing Process

  1. Design the Circuit: Create your PCB layout in a design software like KiCad.
  2. Export for 3D Printing: Export your design as a 3D model (e.g., STL or STEP).
  3. Slice the Model: Use a slicer like PrusaSlicer to prepare the model for printing, assigning different materials to the conductive and non-conductive parts.
  4. Print the PCB: Print the circuit board on a dual extruder 3D printer using conductive and non-conductive filaments.
  5. Component Assembly: Solder or embed the electronic components onto the printed circuit board.

Advantages

  • Rapid Prototyping: Create functional circuit boards in hours instead of weeks.
  • Complex Geometries: Design 3D circuits that are impossible to create with traditional methods.
  • Cost-Effective: Lower cost for small batches and prototypes.
  • Customization: Easily create custom-shaped circuit boards for specific applications.

Limitations

  • Conductivity: Conductive filaments have higher resistance than copper.
  • Resolution: The resolution of the 3D printer limits the size and spacing of the traces.
  • Component Density: Not suitable for high-density circuits.
  • Durability: May not be as durable as traditional PCBs.

Additional Resources