Cool CAD Tips: How to Easily Thread Parts in Autodesk Fusion 360

Threaded screws [Source: SolidSmack]

If you ever wanted to create threaded fasteners for screws, nuts, bolts and the like on the fly using good old Fusion 360, Autodesk has a simple method to easily implement them using the Thread command:

Under the ‘Create’ menu, choose the ‘Thread’ command and select a cylindrical shape you want the thread to be applied on to.

Autodesk Fusion 360 Threading Parts [Source: SolidSmack]

You can then set the specifications of the thread, such as the size, type, class, and direction the thread is rotating towards. If you aren’t sure what specs to give your thread, Fusion 360 automatically finds the standard closest to your particular selection. You can also refer to McMaster-Carr or another part manufacturer to look at their specifications.

Autodesk Fusion 360 Threading Parts [Source: SolidSmack]
Autodesk Fusion 360 Threading Parts [Source: SolidSmack]

Once your threads are set, they will show up on Fusion 360 as decals rather than fully-fledged 3D models. This is simply to create a reference point and won’t add any of the extra edges and curves the new designs create.

Autodesk Fusion 360 Threading Parts [Source: SolidSmack]

Should you want all your threads to be converted to 3D models, you can simply click on ‘Threads” and switch the ‘Cosmetic’ option to ‘Modeled’.

All semi-translucent threads will now become opaque in Fusion 360 and will be fully modelled, allowing you to mess around as well as accidentally click on them while trying to model something else.

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