Supports that will not come off
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Supports fuse to the part when the gap between them is too small. Increase the top Z distance to one layer height and reduce interface density — you want them to hold, not to weld.
Support settings are a balance. Too far away and they do not hold the overhang; too close and they become part of the model.
Top Z distance is the setting that matters most. Change it first.
Supports welded to the part, or removal tears the surface
Support-to-part gap too small, or interface too dense
- Set the top Z distance to exactly one layer height. Zero means fused, always.
- Reduce interface density to 40-50 percent. Dense interfaces give a smooth underside and a part you cannot separate.
- Increase XY distance to 0.8 mm so side supports do not bond to walls.
- Switch to tree supports for organic shapes. They touch in fewer places by design.
- Remove supports while the part is still warm from the plate. Warm PLA releases far more easily.
Where to buy
KATA Mini Flush Cutters, 5-Inch Micro Wire Cutters for Jewelry & Model Kits
Bivethoi 3pcs Micro Wire Cutters Flush Cut Snips, 5 Inch, Light Blue
PETG needs more gap than PLA
PETG bonds to itself aggressively. Settings that give clean support removal in PLA produce welded supports in PETG. Increase the top Z distance to 0.25-0.3 mm and drop the interface density further.
When to design them out
If a part needs heavy support, consider splitting it into two pieces that each print support-free and gluing them. The join is usually easier to finish than a scarred support face, and the print is faster.
LayerWalker
Print defect diagnosis, calibration procedures and parts that actually fit. Corrections welcome through the contact page.