Overhangs: Fighting Gravity
[!INFO]
FDM printing works by laying down molten plastic layer by layer. Each layer must have something to stick to - it can't print in mid-air!
The 45° Rule
| Angle from Vertical | Result |
|---|---|
| 0-45° | ✅ Self-supporting |
| 45-60° | ⚠️ May droop |
| 60-90° | ❌ Needs support! |
[!TIP]
Imagine each layer as a row of bricks - each brick needs at least half of it resting on the layer below to stay up.
Self-Supporting Shapes
- Domes and arches (gradual curves)
- Chamfers instead of sharp overhangs
- Cones with tip pointing up
[!IMPORTANT]
Best Practice: Design to minimize overhangs! It saves time, material, and produces cleaner results.