Support Structures
Support structures are sacrificial pillars and scaffolding generated by slicers beneath steep overhangs (typically angles >45° from vertical) and horizontal bridges to support molten plastic until it cools and solidifies.
Types of Support Structures
Modern slicers offer two primary support styles: Tree / Organic Supports (branching tree-like structures that grip only where needed, use 40% less filament, and snap off cleanly) and Standard / Snug Supports (vertical grid pillars ideal for large flat overhangs).
Support Interface Materials & Dissolvable Supports
Using multi-material units like the AMS, print shops can print the bulk support in cheap PLA while using a single layer of PETG or water-soluble PVA at the contact interface, leaving a pristine bottom finish with zero bond.
Impact on Print Weight & Quote Estimation
Supports add consumable filament weight and post-processing labor time. Quoting calculators include support material in total consumed grams to ensure accurate job profitability.
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