[Slicer Software] Ultimaker Tree Supports: Strong Support for Any Shape, with Minimal Filament!
Can complex shapes be firmly supported with minimal material usage? Ultimaker's newly developed support type, "Tree Supports," is a new 3D printing support structure that takes gravity into account. This article explains what tree supports are, how they work in detail, and introduces how to set them up and tips for using them in Ultimaker Cura.
Fused deposition modeling (FDM/FFF) 3D printing builds models by stacking material layer by layer. However, because filament is affected by gravity, unsupported overhangs will sag. Therefore, "supports" are typically generated for overhangs and removed from the main body after printing is complete. This allows for the creation of high-quality models. (Click here for details: Compare support methods and find the one that suits you) Ultimaker Cura has added "Tree Supports" as a new support structure. Not only do they use minimal material, but they are also easy to remove from the main body and leave almost no marks on the finished product's surface.
．Tree Supports
Tree Supports are a new support structure integrated into Ultimaker Cura. Unlike traditional standard supports, they grow around the model, starting thick at the base and tapering towards the top. They also branch out at a certain angle, with each branch tip contacting only the necessary areas to support the model. The base is stable like a tree trunk, and the upper part supports the overhangs with thin branches, giving them the appearance of tree branches.
When the support function is enabled in Cura, supports are usually generated underneath the model to support overhanging parts. The main model (red part) can be printed with PLA, ABS, nylon, or high-strength industrial materials, depending on the application. On the other hand, PVA soluble filament is usually used for the support parts (blue part). Water-soluble supports can be removed by dissolving them in water, eliminating the need for manual removal and improving the quality of the finished product. (Click here for details: New support material dissolves 6 times faster!)
Tree Supports are generated to surround the entire model, allowing them to efficiently support complex and intricate shapes. Since they only contact the necessary areas like tree branches, they require less material than traditional supports, which not only reduces material costs but also shortens the overall 3D printing time. In addition, the structure remains clean during printing, improving the surface quality of the finished product and resulting in fewer defects.
．Key Tree Support Settings
1. Support Placement
This setting also applies to regular supports and offers two options: Touching buildplate / Everywhere.
Selecting "Everywhere" generates supports on top of the model as well. On the other hand, selecting "Touching buildplate" means supports only grow from the build plate, supporting only the overhangs that the slicer determines require support.
2. Support Overhang Angle
This setting determines the "minimum overhang angle" for generating tree supports. A smaller value expands the support area, while a larger value narrows it. It's recommended to start with around 50° and adjust according to the model's complexity, size, and detail.
3. Tree Support Branch Angle
This setting determines the "maximum branch angle" for tree supports. By adjusting it to match the model's shape, supports can be applied more efficiently to finer details, reducing unnecessary supports and minimizing contact area with the main model.
How was this article? In the field of 3D printing, support structures play a very important role. By mastering the correct settings and usage, you can improve print quality and success rates, enabling the production of more precise industrial parts. 3DMART offers a wide range of solutions for 3D printing. If you would like to learn more about Ultimaker series 3D printers, please feel free to contact us.