How do cooling rates influence FDM prints?

Cooling rates play a crucial role in the FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printing process, particularly in terms of the physical properties and performance of the final print. When a filament is extruded and deposited layer by layer, it begins to cool rapidly. The rate at which this cooling occurs can greatly impact layer adhesion, which is how well each layer bonds to the one below it.

If the cooling rate is too fast, the material may not have enough time to properly adhere to the previously deposited layer before solidifying, leading to weak spots and potential delamination. This weakness can manifest as warping, where the edges of the print lift or bend away from the build platform. Warping often occurs because of uneven cooling, which can create internal stresses that pull on the material. An optimal cooling rate allows for adequate adhesion between layers, minimizing warping and resulting in a more accurate and structurally sound print. Thus, understanding and controlling cooling rates is essential to achieving high-quality FDM prints.