【Slicing Software】Ultimaker Tree Supports: Minimal Filament, Full Support!
Minimal material usage, yet capable of supporting the most complex part structures! Ultimaker's latest developed support type, "Tree Supports," tackles the effects of gravity by supporting 3D printed models in a new way. What are tree supports? A complete analysis of the principles, a tutorial on setting up Ultimaker Cura slicing software, and quick tips for operation:
Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF/FDM) 3D printing technology works by layering material to print objects. Since 3D printing filament is affected by gravity, it tends to sag when unsupported. Therefore, support structures are usually added to overhanging areas. After printing, these supports are removed from the main body, completing the model ( Click here to compare support effects and find the best method for you);Ultimaker Cura has developed a second type of support structure called "Tree Supports," which uses minimal material and is easier to remove from the main body, resulting in a nearly blemish-free finished model.
．Tree Supports
Tree support is a new support structure in Ultimaker Cura. Unlike standard support generation methods, tree supports grow around the model, with the thickest base and thinning as they rise. They grow branches at an angle, with each branch having only a thin tip that touches the parts of the object needing support. The bottom support acts like a sturdy tree trunk, while the delicate structures above precisely support the overhanging parts of the object, resembling the branches of a tree.
When the support function is activated in Cura, supports are usually generated beneath the object to support overhanging parts. The main body of the model (red area) can be made using PLA, ABS, Nylon, or industrial high-strength materials, depending on the part's requirements. The support areas (blue area) typically use PVA water-soluble filament. Water-soluble supports can be dissolved directly in water, eliminating the need for manual removal and effectively ensuring the quality of the finished product. (Click here to learn about new support combinations and six times faster dissolution!)
Tree supports can wrap around models, supporting more intricate and complex parts. By contacting the object with branches, they use less material than conventional supports, saving production costs and increasing overall 3D printing speed. The process is cleaner, and the finished surface is smoother with fewer defects.
．Main Tree Support Settings
1. Support Placement
This setting can also be used for regular supports, with two options: Touching buildplate / Everywhere.
When "Everywhere" is selected, supports can be generated on top of the object. When "Touching buildplate" is selected, supports will only grow upwards from the print bed and only support areas that the system deems to be overhanging and requiring support.
2. Support Overhang Angle
Sets the "minimum angle" for tree supports. A smaller value results in a larger support area, while a larger value results in a smaller support area. It is recommended to start with a value of 50 and then adjust based on the model's complexity, size, and detail.
3. Tree Support Branch Angle
Sets the "maximum angle" for tree supports. This can be adjusted according to the model's structure to reach more intricate areas, eliminating more unnecessary support locations without the need for large areas to attach to the main body of the model.
Did you enjoy this sharing? In the field of 3D printing, businesses frequently use support structures. Mastering the techniques and methods can improve the quality and success rate of each production, and also enable the creation of more precise industrial parts. 3DMART offers more than just 3D printing; contact us now to learn more about the Ultimaker full range of 3D printers.