I created a simple script for the "Post Processing" plugin called "OuterWallFan". I wanted to share this script and my experiences using it.
I print end-use parts that must be as strong as possible, but also look nice with no visual defects. I discovered that I can create strong prints by not using the cooling fan, but this usually resulted in ugly parts. On the other hand, I can use the cooling fan to make the parts look great, but they were brittle and weak. (You are probably already aware of this 🙂.)
I created the “OuterWallFan” script to balance part strength and aesthetics. I use the script to turn the cooling fan on for outer walls, and then back off for any other line type (inner wall, infill, top/bottom, first layer, etc).
I’ve had great luck producing strong and nice-looking prints with this script. I’ve tried it with PLA, ABS, and PC/PBT. I can't set the fan at 100% with ABS or I get warping, but it seems to work great at 35% to 40% fan speed.
To use the script, unzip it and copy it to the following location:
C:\Program Files\Ultimaker Cura [X.X]\plugins\PostProcessingPlugin\scripts
Then, restart Cura and select Extensions -> Post Processing -> Modify G-code. Next, select “OuterWallFan” from the "Add a Script" drop down.
Do you do something similar? Maybe others will find this as useful I have. Let me know if there are questions or problems with the script.
OuterWallFan.zip