Support can be tricky! Sometimes, you need them for your 3D prints, but not many people enjoy using them. The usual support structures can be problematic and are notorious for being tough to remove from the model. Even if you try to adjust the settings for better results, let's admit it: they don't always produce the outcome you desire.
Now, let's talk about a game-changer—tree support in Cura! These supports are gaining popularity for good reasons. Those who've tried them often prefer them over the regular ones, and it's understandable. Tree supports are quick and easy to take off, and they give your prints an impressive appearance.
In this article, we'll delve into the details of Cura tree support, exploring when to use them and providing guidance on the best tree support settings. Get ready to explore the world of tree support with us!
Why is Support Material Important in 3D Printing?
Before delving into Cura tree supports, let's grasp the concept of support material and its significance in 3D printing. Understanding this sheds light on why tree supports excel in their role.
In 3D printing, particularly using Fused Deposition Modeling, objects form layer by layer. Each layer builds upon the previous one, ultimately crafting a fully 3D-printed piece. This method is known as additive manufacturing.
When printing objects like cubes, each layer relies on the one beneath it for support, maintaining uniformity.
But what if the printer encounters a layer without anything beneath it to hold onto? Imagine a complex model with varying layers. Here, the printer needs support material to anchor itself and build upon.
Support materials, typically akin to the main material, aid in this process. When set up correctly, they detach effortlessly afterward.
In essence, supports facilitate the printing of intricate models with steep overhangs, ensuring quality without concerns about sagging or other unsupported printing issues.
What is Tree Support in 3D Printing with Cura?
Tree support in 3D printing:Image Source:printable.com
Tree supports are a special kind of support material made to help with 3D prints. They're called "tree supports" because they resemble trees: there's a thick base (the trunk) with thinner parts branching out in different directions.
These tree supports were introduced in Cura version 3.2.0 back in February 2018. At first, they were only in the experimental part of Cura, but by 2020, in version 4.7.0, they had become an official feature.
When you print something using tree supports, the trunk gives strength, while the smaller branches hold up different parts of your 3D print without sticking too hard to the model. This makes it easier to remove the support material later without messing up your print.
Because most of the tree support's parts are hollow, you use less time and material compared to regular supports. This means it costs less to print, which is great if you're trying to make money with your 3D printer.
The tree supports work best for printing things like miniatures, decorations, statues, and models with lots of overhangs. They help support the overhanging parts of your print well and don't leave many marks on the surface.
How to Turn on Tree Supports?
Tree Support Setting: Image Source: Tom’s Hardware
To activate tree support, head over to the Support menu and click on Support Type. From there, pick Tree from the options that drop down.
Once you've made your selection, go ahead and slice your design. Then, navigate to the preview section to check out how the supports look on your model. Just keep in mind that the slicing process might take longer compared to other support types. This is a drawback of these supports, so don't be surprised if the progress bar moves slowly.
Cura Tree Support Configuration
When you enable tree support, you can stick with the default settings, as they usually provide satisfactory results. However, there might be times when you need to adjust them to better suit your specific design. Here are the main settings you can tweak:
1. Support Placement:
You have two choices here – Touching Build Plate and Everywhere. If you opt for the Touching Build Plate, the supports will start from the build plate and extend upwards only on the sections they're supporting. Choosing Everywhere means the supports will touch all over.
2. Branch Diameter:
This setting controls how thick the branches of the tree supports are. A larger branch diameter results in stronger supports, but it uses more material. Cura's default setting ranges from 2-5mm, a good starting point for most models. Adjust this based on your model's complexity, using a smaller diameter for simpler designs and a larger one for more intricate structures.
3. Trunk Diameter:
This determines the diameter of the main support structure, resembling the trunk of a tree. Increasing the trunk diameter makes the design sturdier but uses more material. Consider your priorities—stability or material usage—before adjusting this setting.
4. Branch Diameter Angle:
This setting controls the angle of the branches' diameter as they thicken towards the bottom. A higher angle results in wider bases and more stability. Experiment with this based on your design structure, with an angle of 3 to 5 being suitable for standard overhangs.
5. Support Branch Angle:
This unique setting determines the maximum angle at which tree supports will be 3D printed. A lower angle creates steeper, more stable branches, while a higher angle allows branches to reach further but may be less stable.
6. Tip Diameter:
A smaller tip diameter creates thinner and more delicate supports, while a larger one produces thicker and sturdier supports. You can stick to the default value or adjust it according to your design.
Before making any adjustments, consider what's more important to you – stability or efficient material usage. Experiment with the default settings initially, then tweak them based on your specific 3D model until you find the optimal configuration.
When should you use Tree Supports?
Tree supports are handy for your designs with overhangs. Here's why they're recommended:
1. Perfect for 3D Printing Characters
Creating miniatures and characters with FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) can be tricky. While resin 3D printers handle complex structures well, FDM printers can benefit from tree supports. Unlike traditional supports that are tough to remove, especially within delicate character structures, tree supports offer easier removal. They have fewer contact points with the model, breaking away smoothly without leaving noticeable marks.
2. Material and Time Savings
Tree supports are efficient with material usage. They attach only where necessary, reducing the overall volume of support materials. Their tree-like structure features thin branches, minimizing volume compared to regular supports. Though slicing may take longer, 3D printing with tree supports is faster overall. For instance, a design with tree supports uses approximately 10m of material, whereas traditional supports under the same settings use around 11m.
3. Easy Removal and Smooth Finish
Removing supports can be a hassle, especially in hard-to-reach areas. Tree supports simplify this process with branch-like structures that snap away easily. They're less densely packed than regular supports, making them ideal for prints with challenging support removal areas.
So, tree supports offer a practical solution for 3D printing designs with overhangs. They simplify the printing process, conserve material, and ensure a smooth finish, making them a valuable tool in the world of 3D printing.
SelfCAD: Best 3D Modeling Software in 2024
SelfCAD: Best 3D Modeling Software in 2024:Image Source:selfcad.com
SelfCAD is a user-friendly 3D design software designed for both experts and beginners. It includes a built-in slicer for preparing designs for 3D printing, eliminating the need for additional software. This slicer is compatible with most FDM 3D printers. What sets SelfCAD apart is its integration of technical, artistic, and 3D printing tools into one convenient package. With features like rendering, freehand drawing, and sketching tools, it caters to various design needs.
In 2024, SelfCAD stands out as an accessible option for 3D printing enthusiasts. Users can estimate print time and material requirements easily. The slicer is available for download or online use, ensuring high-quality prints for both simple and intricate designs.
Best suited for newcomers due to its intuitive interface, SelfCAD also offers advanced features for professionals. It streamlines the design process, allowing faster creation of models, scenes, and 3D designs compared to traditional CAD software. The pricing options include yearly, monthly, and perpetual licenses, making it accessible to users with different needs and budgets.
Conclusion
Tree supports represent a newer kind of support structure for 3D printing. They're designed to use less material, speed up printing, and be easier to remove compared to regular supports. Cura's tree supports are particularly useful for models with small details and large overhangs. They improve overhang quality and leave minimal marks on the printed object's surface.
Like any slicer setting, there's a need for some adjustments to get the best results. By following the provided Cura tree support settings, you'll be up and running smoothly. Try out Cura Tree support and share your experience with us. If you encounter any difficulties or need assistance, feel free to comment below, and we'll gladly help you out.