Support destroys details on print
Hi.
I am fairly new to 3D printing and only recently started printing objects that require support. It turns out parts on my prints that were touching support are horribly warped compared to other parts, which is especially showing on rounded objects. If its big and lacks details I can sand it and then paint it but now I have a more complex object and I need to make it work.
I tried to print this wand, specifically the tip part. https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1069671
I slice the model using default Slic3r setting with support and 0.2 mm layer height. It came out horribly, both upper but especially the support layer. Details are lost.
Only sides are looking good.
Then I tried to lower layer height to 0.1 mm but it didn't do much.
I tried to search for the solution. Some people recommend to change "Perimeters" setting in "Vertical shells" from 2 to 3 and then lower "Travel speed" to 90 mm/s, but it also didn't help. I don't know what else I could try and I don't know if it's only the problem with Slic3r settings or maybe with my printer?
I also know that you can print it nicely using Prusa printer: Joseph Prusa himself did it. https://www.thingiverse.com/make:196232
Thank you for your time.
Re: Support destroys details on print
The reality is that the undersides of supported surfaces are going to be rough. Removable support provides something for the filament to drop down against, but the printer is essentially printing on air -- essentially bridging and printing round filament instead of squashed surfaces -- due to the gap required to make that support actually removable. I've tried a variety of slicers and settings, and while you might be able to make it look a little better, you're not going to be able to get it to look great given the limitations of current FDM printer technology. The 1st layer after support tends to look stringy and rough.
The key is to print so any visible surfaces don't require support whenever possible. You could try printing vertically, although the entire wand may not fit. Perhaps print in pieces and glue them together? Try an angle to minimize support? I noticed the Thingiverse poster suggested printing horizontally specifically:
I recommend printing completely horizontal with supports so that the print layers appear like wood grains.
and miscellaneous other tech projects
He is intelligent, but not experienced. His pattern indicates two dimensional thinking. -- Spock in Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan
Re: Support destroys details on print
I realize that support is not the best option but I thought that maybe I am doing something wrong and that's why it is looking that bad. Your explanation is enough to convince me.
I'll try to print it vertically, altough I need to resize it first so it fits in my printer. I saw remixes of this object that are sliced in half and then glued together, just as you described. I may give it a go.
Thank you very much for your help.