Satisfactory · Game data 1.2.4.0
Blueprint sizes and modular factory layouts
Design a useful production module, document its connections and verify every copy before scaling up.
Design around a useful production unit
A Blueprint Designer saves a group of buildings for repeated placement in the game. Its usable volume is 32 × 32 × 32 m for Mk.1, 40 × 40 × 40 m for Mk.2 and 48 × 48 × 48 m for Mk.3. Every included building must fit completely inside the boundary.
Start with a small module that does one job: a row of smelters, a constructor block or one manufacturing stage with accessible inputs. Use the planner to calculate the module’s input, output and power at the intended clock speed. Choose a module size that your available belts can actually feed.
Keep extraction and site-specific transport outside the module. A portable block is easier to reuse when it expects clearly labelled material and power connections rather than a particular terrain shape or node location.
The game’s Blueprint Auto Connect mode can join compatible belt, pipe and railway connections. With a blueprint hologram active, use R to cycle build modes and inspect the connection preview. Still check the finished connections before feeding a large production row.
Choose the feeding pattern
A manifold feeds a row through repeated splitters. Early machines fill their input buffers first, so later machines may take time to reach full operation. Check the incoming rate against the row’s total consumption and allow time for startup before diagnosing a shortfall.
A balanced distribution can be useful when equal delivery during startup matters, or when a limited supply must be shared. It takes more routing space. Whichever arrangement you choose, a splitter does not create more material and a merger cannot push more than its outgoing belt allows.
For trains, leave room for buffers around freight platforms and test actual deliveries over a complete route. A smooth factory output can conceal an undersized route until the receiving buffer runs out.
Before saving and after placing
- Give the module a name that includes its product and target rate. Mark its inputs, outputs and power connection in a consistent position.
- Set recipes and clock speeds, and verify that you can reach every connection after adjacent copies are placed.
- Run one complete module under load. Check upstream supply, internal belt marks, byproduct disposal and output clearance.
- Place a second copy and inspect every boundary connection. Do not assume an aligned belt, pipe or power connector has joined automatically.
- Multiply the module demand by the number of copies before extending the factory. Upgrade the shared trunk and power supply where needed.
- Keep a backup of your in-game blueprint files and a separate export of the planner. A production plan describes rates and recipes; it is not an in-game building blueprint.