Shenzhen Alu Rapid Prototype Precision Co., Ltd.

In 3D printing (especially FDM/FFF printers), supports are temporary structures that the printer builds alongside your actual model to hold up overhanging parts during printing. Once the print is finished, you remove (break away or dissolve) these supports.

Why are supports needed?

Most 3D printers print layer by layer from the bottom up. Plastic coming out of the nozzle needs something underneath it to stick to. If a part of the model overhangs too much (usually more than 45–50° from vertical), the plastic would just droop or fall into mid-air → spaghetti mess.Supports act as scaffolding that gives those overhanging areas something to print on top of.

Common types of supports

How to minimize the need for supports

1.Orient the model smarter – rotate it so fewer or no overhangs exceed ~45°.

2.Split the model into parts and glue/screw them after printing.

3.Add your own custom supports in CAD (tiny cylinders or cones) that are easier to remove.

4.Design 45° chamfers or self-supporting angles (YHT rule: “Horizontal overhangs = Your Headache Time”).