Precise 3D printing supports are essential for reliable results in metal dental 3D printing. That’s why 2onelab’s CAM software 2Build offers two specialized types: Lattice Supports and Rod Supports (Pin Supports). This article, along with the video, outlines their applications, advantages, and selection criteria.
Supports for 3D Printing – 2Build
Supports are temporary structures used to hold up overhangs and complex shapes during 3D printing. They ensure delicate or overhanging parts to stay in place, preventing warping and failure, which in turn improves accuracy.
Lattice Support Structure
Lattice Supports consist of interconnected bars that form a grid-like, supporting framework.
For applications such as partial dentures and orthodontic RPEs, Lattice Supports are the preferred choice. Their robust framework effectively absorbs horizontal forces, making them ideal for intricate designs that require stable, reliable support.
Key Features: Lattice Supports
- Stabilize horizontal forces
- Provide better protection against warping
- Suitable for 3D nesting (unlike Rod Supports)
- Ideal for larger parts
- Typical applications: Partial dentures, orthodontic RPEs, and wide-span frameworks
Rod Support Structure
Rod Supports (also known as Pin Supports) are slim, vertical structures used to stabilize small or compact parts during 3D printing.
Compared to Lattice Supports, Rod Supports are the ideal choice for more rigid structures such as crowns, bridges, or circular frameworks. They excel at stabilizing vertical forces and minimizing distortion during the printing process
Key Features: Rod Supports
- Stabilizing vertical force
- Enable faster printing times
- Reduction of powder consumption
- Easy to separate from the part
- Ideal for small parts and rigid structures
-
Typical applications: Crowns, bridges, and circular frameworks
Both Lattice and Rod Supports are designed to dissipate heat efficiently, helping parts remain stable throughout the printing process and up until stress-relief annealing.
3D Printing Support Generator
With the ready-to-use templates in 2Build, selecting the appropriate support parameters is straightforward. You can easily choose the most suitable support type for your application, whether it’s a small part that requires Rod Supports or a larger, more complex part that benefits from Lattice Supports.
Compared to Lattice Supports, Rod Supports are the ideal choice for more rigid structures such as crowns, bridges, or circular frameworks. They excel at stabilizing vertical forces and minimizing distortion during the printing process
Conclusion – 3D Printing Supports with 2Build
Choosing the right 3D printing supports is key to achieve reliable, high-quality results in dental applications. With 2Build, 2onelab offers an efficient and user-friendly solution to generate the optimal support structures for any requirement — from delicate crowns to complex partial dentures. Thanks to predefined templates and clear support types, users can streamline their workflow and ensure precision at every step of the printing process.
FAQ: 3D Printing Supports
What are supports in 3D printing?
Supports are temporary structures used to stabilize overhangs and complex geometries during the printing process. They ensure that overhanging or delicate parts remain in place by preventing warping and distortion, resulting in improved accuracy.
What kind of supports are used for 3D printing with 2Build?
In 2Build, you can choose between Lattice Supports and Rod Supports – each optimized for specific applications.
– Lattice Supports: Ideal for larger parts, offering strong support and preventing warping.
– Rod Supports (Pin Supports): Best suited for small parts, stabilizing vertical forces and easy to remove.
What are the differences between Rod and Lattice Supports?
Rod and Lattice Supports serve different purposes in 3D printing.
Lattice Supports stabilize horizontal forces, offer better protection against warping, and are ideal for larger, complex parts. They’re perfect for applications like partial dentures and wide-span frameworks.
Rod Supports (Pin Supports), on the other hand, stabilize vertical forces, allow for faster printing, and are easier to remove. They’re ideal for small parts and rigid structures, such as crowns and bridges.
How to remove supports from a 3D print?
Support Removal in Metal Dental 3D Printing
– Removal Tools: Supports are typically removed using tools such as pliers, saws, or rotary cutters, depending on the material and geometry of the part.
– Surface Finishing: A grinding machine is often used to smooth remaining contact points, improving surface quality.
– Step-by-Step Process: The removal may involve several steps, including cutting, grinding, and polishing, especially for complex parts.
– Cleaning: After mechanical removal, the part is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate dust and residues.
Further links:
Author: Markus Wolf
Passionate about 3D printing, while being
CTO and Co-Founder of 2onelab.
