What is overhang in 3D printing and how to improve product quality

22 Jul 15:15

2 min. read

heheprint

@heheprint

Post cover: What is overhang in 3D printing and how to improve product quality

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How to reduce overhang issues

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Overhang — these are areas of the model that extend over the air without direct support from below. In 3D printing, especially FDM (fused deposition modeling), this is a challenge: the plastic has nothing to hold onto and can sag, deform, or even collapse.

Critical overhang angle — usually 45°. If the angle is greater, the extruder does not have time to "build" a strong base for the next layer, and the quality decreases.

How to reduce overhang issues

Enable supports
This is the simplest way. The printer will add temporary supports under problematic areas that can be removed after printing.
Optimize cooling
Good cooling helps the plastic harden faster. Turn on fans or increase their speed for PLA and similar materials.
Reduce print speed
Slower printing in overhang areas gives the plastic more time to cool.
Lower the extruder temperature
But be careful — not to lose layer adhesion. Cooler plastic is less viscous and will not sag.
Change the model orientation
Rotate the model so that overhangs are minimized or positioned at a better angle.
Modify the geometry
Add a chamfer or fillet to turn overhangs into gradual transitions.

Printing overhangs is a balance between material, settings, and design. Test different options and use test overhang models for calibration. Here’s a screenshot of models from makerworld: