Raft
Difficulty: Noob
Objective: Understand what a raft is and when to properly use it.
What is a raft?
Rafts are similar to supports in the sense that they break off after printing. However supports are necessary, where as rafts simply enhance the quality of the print. A raft is extra material added to the print bed to print the object on.
Why should I use a raft?
1.) Reduce Warping
The most common reason for a raft is to absorb the warping so your object doesn't. Even though your object will still warp, it won't warp as bad. Seen below is the same object printed with and without a raft, except the job without a raft was canceled mid print. Notice the curl.
2.) Balance a Tall Object
This has to do with my Wiggle theorem, but suffice it to say it is bad if your object isn't stable. Therefore to stabilize your object you can add a raft to help it print better.
3.) Get an Object to Stick to the Bed Plate
Sometimes it can be difficult to get your print to actually start printing because it won't stick to the plate. There are solutions to this found in another post. However you can easily cheat the fix by simply adding a raft that the object will stick to.
When not to use a raft?
1.) Thin Objects
Rafts are easy to break off with a tall object, however when the object gets small you lose a lot of your leverage power, an it can be very difficult to break off the raft. In addition you may be just as likely to break your model as you are able to break the raft of.
2.) To Keep a Smooth Face
The best texture of your 3D printed object will usually always be the face of your object that lays flush with the print bed. By using a raft, that face will no longer lay on the bed, but flush with the raft.
Please leave a comment.
And as always thanks for visiting
3D Printing Ninja
3DNinjaneer@gmail.com
Category: 3D Printing Preparation, Basics, Noob, Raft, Settings, Trouble Shooting
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