making real threads
- Thread starter srjacob
- Start date
You'll have to use the helical tools - if not confident how to go about it see the file at
for some tips.
You may or may not need to refine the form further. Or just run a tap or die through or over the print to 'clean up' the printed threads.
for some tips.
You may or may not need to refine the form further. Or just run a tap or die through or over the print to 'clean up' the printed threads.
I wonder what it would take to get Alibre to fix the thread tool to make real threads? I sometimes make threaded rods in Vectorworks (yes, they make REAL threads) and import the IGES file into Alibre to make the threaded part. I can 3D print course threads. If Vectorworks can do it, so can ALibre.
We get many requests, and only have certain amount of development resource. Choices have to be made - obviously it's frustrating if your particular suggestion isn't implemented.
There are ways to do that - for example defining the new line as the axis for symmetry constraint then touch the both older (fixed) lines (may not always be applicable), or use a reference line and midpoint constraint.
There are ways to do that - for example defining the new line as the axis for symmetry constraint then touch the both older (fixed) lines (may not always be applicable), or use a reference line and midpoint constraint.
I know how to do the midline issue. I use dimensions and formulas. A constraint would be nicer, however.
I also notice that no effort has gone into 2D sketch constraints.
The ability to create real threads has been missing even since they revamped the thread tool. When this happened, I was hoping for some real threads, but no dice. It's difficult to 3D print small, fine threads, but large, course threads are easily printable.
Times past, there was a way to propose and vote on new features. That seems to have gone away and there seem to be no user input.
I also notice that no effort has gone into 2D sketch constraints.
The ability to create real threads has been missing even since they revamped the thread tool. When this happened, I was hoping for some real threads, but no dice. It's difficult to 3D print small, fine threads, but large, course threads are easily printable.
Times past, there was a way to propose and vote on new features. That seems to have gone away and there seem to be no user input.
Ken226
Alibre Super User
Try this. Hopefully it is helpful. It's just a quick and dirty on how-to get the profile. The person modeling threads can model part to the actual major, then add a revolve cut for the relief and add chamfers and flats at the thread root and crest if they wish.
I'll do another one shortly, with a cleaner profile and including the relief and chamfer.
Here is a method that is a little cleaner, though a bit slower and more involved.
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albie0803
Alibre Super User
If you go to the Advanced tab on the Helical Cut window and change the profile orientation to Normal you will get a more correct thread. It actually turns the profile of the cut to the same angle as the helix. Try it and look at the end of the cut, you will see it is at 90° to the helix line.
Ken226
Alibre Super User
I didn't realize that was there! Thank you!
To be honest, that needs to be in the tutorial. I'll shoot another version of this tutorial tomorrow and include that info.