Tool menu: Thread tool

What is the Thread tool?

You can use the Thread tool to create geometric threads on cylindrical faces, including external threads on the outside of cylindrical bodies and internal threads inside cylindrical holes.

The tool creates actual 3D thread geometry rather than a visual representation, making it useful for models intended for 3D printing and manufacturing.

How to use the Thread tool

1. Go to Tools > Thread.
   For other ways to access tools, visit Accessing tools.
2. Select the cylindrical face where you want to create threads. 
3. Select an outer cylindrical face for external threads or an inner cylindrical face for internal threads.
4. Use the thread size dropdown to select a size. You can also open the parameter card using the settings icon beside the dropdown.
5. Optional: To adjust additional settings while the tool is active, select Thread again to open the parameter card.
6. To finish, click anywhere on an empty area.

Parameter Card and History Settings

You can adjust Thread parameters while the tool is active or edit them later in History.

Parameter Card settings

While the tool is active, select Thread again to open the parameter card and access the following settings:

• Faces to Thread – Select the cylindrical faces where threads will be created.
• Extent – Control how far the threads extend along the selected cylindrical face:
  • Full Length – Create threads along the entire length of the selected face.
  • Custom Length – Specify the thread length using the Length field.
• Flip Start Side – Change which end of the cylindrical face the threads start from.
• Standard – Choose the thread standard used to generate the thread geometry.
• Size – Select a thread size from the available options.
• Pitch – Set the distance between adjacent thread crests.
• Direction – Choose Right Hand or Left Hand to control the direction of the thread.

To learn more, visit Parameter Cards.

History settings

Creating threads adds a Thread step to History. Select the step to review or edit its parameters.

When to use the Thread tool

The Thread tool is useful for:

• Creating threaded fasteners – Add external threads to bolts, screws, and other cylindrical components.
• Modeling threaded holes – Create internal threads for components that accept threaded fasteners.
• Designing threaded connections – Model mating parts that use threaded connections, such as caps and containers.
• Preparing models for manufacturing – Include geometric threads in designs intended for 3D printing or other manufacturing processes.

Best practices and troubleshooting

• Check that you selected the correct cylindrical face for internal or external threading.
• Use Custom Length when threads should cover only part of the cylindrical face.
• Check the Standard, Size, Pitch, and Direction settings when designing mating threaded components.
• Use Flip Start Side when the threads need to begin from the opposite end of the cylindrical face.