What is necessary for parts to fit correctly after printing, regarding clearance in CAD models?

For parts to fit correctly after printing, clearance must be designed into the CAD model. Proper clearance ensures that when two parts are supposed to move relative to each other or interface closely, they will do so without any binding or friction. This design consideration is vital in additive manufacturing, where dimensional accuracy may be influenced by various factors such as the printing material, print settings, and environmental conditions.

While slicing software can make adjustments to some extent, the foundational understanding is that if the CAD model does not incorporate the necessary clearance, the final printed parts may still not fit as intended regardless of slicing adjustments. Thus, designing clearance into the CAD model is crucial for achieving the desired fit and function of the printed parts.