What does "warping" refer to in 3D printing?

Warping in 3D printing specifically refers to the curling or deformation of printed layers as they cool down after being extruded. This phenomenon typically occurs due to uneven cooling rates of the material, which can lead to stresses that cause the edges of printed objects to lift or curl away from the build plate.

When the thermoplastic material that is used in 3D printing, such as ABS or PLA, cools too quickly, it can contract, creating tension between the layers and the surface they are printed on. This is especially common in larger prints or those with a smaller footprint in contact with the build platform. Warp can compromise the accuracy and integrity of a print, making it crucial for practitioners to implement strategies to mitigate this issue, such as using heated build plates or enclosure systems.

The other options focus on different aspects of the 3D printing process. For instance, layer adhesion is concerned with how well the layers stick together, alignment refers to the positioning of layers relative to each other, and speed pertains to the operational rate of the printer, none of which directly relate to the warping phenomenon.