【Slicing Software】Ultimaker Tree Supports: Minimum Filament, Support for All Angles!
Minimum material usage, yet able to support the most complex part structures!? Ultimaker's latest developed support type, "Tree Supports," addresses 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 Ultimaker Cura slicing software settings, and operating tips are available now:
Fused Deposition Modeling (FFF/FDM) 3D printing technology works by layering material to print objects. Due to gravity, 3D printing filament will sag when suspended in mid-air. Therefore, support structures are typically added to overhangs. After printing, the supports are removed from the main body to complete the model (Click here to compare support effects and find out which method is right for you); Ultimaker Cura's latest developed second type of support structure, called "Tree Supports," allows for easier removal from the main body with minimal material usage, resulting in a finished model with virtually no marks.
．Tree Supports
Tree supports are a new type of support structure in Ultimaker Cura. Unlike standard support generation, 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 one fine tip that contacts the part of the object needing support. The base support is as stable as a tree trunk, while the fine structures at the top precisely support the overhanging parts of the object. The appearance is just like the branches of a tree.
When enabling support functions in Cura, supports are usually generated underneath the object to support parts suspended in mid-air. The main body of the model (red area) can be made from PLA, ABS, Nylon... or industrial high-strength materials, depending on part requirements; while the support parts (blue area) usually use PVA water-soluble filament. Water-soluble supports can be directly dissolved in water, eliminating manual removal and effectively ensuring the quality of the finished product. (Click here: New support options with a six-times faster dissolution speed!)
Tree supports can encompass the model, supporting more intricate and complex structures. By contacting the object like branches, they use less material than conventional supports, which not only saves production costs but also increases overall 3D printing speed. The process is cleaner, and the finished product surface is smoother with fewer defects.
．Main Tree Support Settings
1. Support Placement
This setting can also be used for regular supports and has 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 platform and will only support areas that the system deems to require support due to overhangs.
2. Support Overhang Angle
Set the "minimum angle" for tree supports. A smaller value means a larger support area, while a larger value means a smaller support area. It is recommended to start with a value of 50 and then adjust according to the model's complexity, size, and detail.
3. Tree Support Branch Angle
Set the "maximum angle" for tree supports. This can be adjusted according to the model structure to reach more intricate areas, eliminating unnecessary support locations and avoiding large-area attachment to the main body of the model.
Did you enjoy this sharing? In the 3D printing field, businesses frequently use support structures. Mastering the techniques and usage 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 full range of Ultimaker 3D printers.