Frequently Asked Questions

23:Poor Surface Above Supports
One of the major benefits of Simplify3D is the ability to
create innovative support structures which allow you to create
incredibly complex parts that would be hard to manufacture
otherwise. For example, if you have a steep overhang or part of
your model with nothing below it, then a support structure can
provide a foundation for these layers. The support structures
created by Simplify3D are disposable and can be easily separated
from the final part. However, depending on your settings, you may
find that some adjustments are needed to perfect the surface
quality on the underside of your parts, right above the support
structure foundation. We will explain the key settings below and
how they can affect your prints.
(1) Lower Your Layer Height
The overhang performance of your printer can be greatly
improved by lowering your layer height. For example, if you
reduced your layer height from 0.2mm to 0.1mm, your printer will
create twice as many layers, which allows your printer to take
smaller steps when creating an overhang. For this reason, your
may find that you need support structures for any overhang above
45 degrees when using a 0.2mm layer height, but your overhang