How can adding supports help in 3D printing?

Adding supports in 3D printing is essential for enabling the creation of complex geometries. When printing structures that have overhangs or intricate shapes, supports provide a temporary framework that holds up these features during the additive manufacturing process. Without these supports, the material may sag or collapse under its own weight, leading to unsuccessful prints or poor surface finishes.

Supports are particularly important for designs that incorporate features such as bridges, arches, or any parts that extend outward without adequate lower surface area to sit upon. The temporary material used for supports can be easily removed after printing, ensuring the final product maintains the intended design and functionality. This capability allows designers and engineers to push the limits of their creativity and produce parts that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with traditional subtractive manufacturing methods.

In contrast, while concerns like layer separation or material usage are relevant to the overall printing process, they do not capture the primary function of supports, which is to facilitate complex design printing.