Water-Soluble support or Breakable support in 3D Printing, which one outperforms?
In the realm of 3D printing, support structures play a crucial role in maintaining the stability and precision of the printed objects. Yet, the task of removing these supports post-printing can prove to be laborious and challenging, especially if they are constructed from the same material as the object itself. Enter water-soluble supports—a game-changing solution. In this article, we delve into the myriad advantages of incorporating water-soluble support structures in the 3D printing process.
1 – Easy Removal 💧
One of the key advantages offered by water-soluble support structures lies in it’s effortless removal from the printed object. Upon completion of the print, submerge the object in a water container, and watch as the support structures dissolve gradually, leaving the printed item unaffected. This ingenious process eliminates the necessity for manual removal, sparing you the arduous and time-consuming task.
2 – Better Surface Finish ✍️
In addition to it’s easy removal, water-soluble support structures can significantly enhance the surface finish of 3D printed objects. Since they can be effortlessly eliminated without causing harm, the risk of surface damage or imperfections during the removal process is greatly reduced. This characteristic proves particularly advantageous for objects showcasing intricate or delicate features, ensuring a pristine and flawless outcome.
3 – More Design Flexibility ✨
Using water-soluble support structures opens up a realm of design flexibility for 3D printed objects. The ease of removing these supports empowers designers to seamlessly incorporate complex and intricate shapes into their creations, free from concerns about the removal process. With this newfound freedom, designers can explore boundless possibilities and push the boundaries of creativity, resulting in awe-inspiring and imaginative 3D printed masterpieces.
4 – Cost Effective 💰
Although water-soluble support structures may appear more costly at first compared to traditional ones, they prove to be a more cost-effective choice in the long run. The ease of the removal reduces the risk of damaging the printed object during the process, resulting in fewer failed prints and less material wastage. As a result, these support structures save both time and resources, making them a smart investment that ultimately pays off in terms of enhanced efficiency and reduced overall expenses.
5 – Widely Available 🌎
Lastly, water-soluble support structures are readily accessible for use in Stratasys 3D printers. This signifies that regardless of the printer model or type of material being employed, a water-soluble support option is likely to be available, ensuring a seamless and versatile experience for users across the board.
In conclusion, water-soluble support structures present a myriad of advantages for 3D printing, encompassing easy removal, improved surface finish, enhanced design flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and widespread availability. If you find yourself grappling with challenges related to support removal or surface quality while using traditional supports, delving into the realm of water-soluble support from Stratasys could prove to be a game-changing solution for your next project. Embrace the possibilities and unlock the full potential of your 3D printing endeavors with water-soluble support structures.
Discover the Stratasys J55 Prime and J35 Pro which support WSS150 Soluble Support Material.
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