What is "tolerance" in the context of 3D printing?

In the context of 3D printing, tolerance refers to the permissible limit of variation in the dimensions and geometry of printed parts. This concept is crucial because it defines how closely the printed object can match the intended design specifications. When creating parts for assemblies or fitting components together, maintaining proper tolerances ensures that all pieces will interact correctly without issues such as excessive gaps or interference.

In engineering and manufacturing, the concept of tolerance encompasses the acceptable range of dimensional variation, both in terms of size and shape. For instance, if a part's dimensions are specified to be 10 mm but can vary by ±0.5 mm, this means the part can be anywhere from 9.5 mm to 10.5 mm and still be considered acceptable.

Other options relate to different aspects of 3D printing. While durability is important for the performance of printed parts, it does not pertain to tolerance. The minimum thickness of filament is also an important specification but is not directly related to what tolerance measures. Color accuracy, while significant for aesthetic quality in prints, is not connected to dimensional accuracy or engineering specifications, which is the primary focus of tolerance.