What are support structures in additive manufacturing?

Support structures in additive manufacturing are essential for stabilizing complex geometries during the printing process. When creating parts with overhangs, intricate designs, or features that cannot be built up from the underlying layer alone, support structures provide temporary reinforcement. Without these supports, the material in the overhanging areas might sag, warp, or fail to print correctly, leading to defects in the final product.

These structures are typically made from a material that can be easily removed after printing, allowing the desired part to remain intact while the supports do their job during the building process. Their design and implementation are critical to achieving high-quality prints, particularly when dealing with sophisticated 3D models that require precision and stability throughout the additive manufacturing process.