Support Settings

[matrex91 0]

Hey guys,

I'm trying to print a tall mostly cylindrical object. It has a slightly uneven bottom so I want to have PVA support structure for the first 10 layers or so, but after that I don't need them. Is there a way to have the support print for a finite number of layers and then stop?

[gr5 2,167]

I hope someone else answers this but an alternative is to "sink" the object below the glass such that cura cuts off the bottom 1mm or so. Would that be a problem for your part? Cutting the bottom flat? Or do you need it angled like that?

[zerspaner_gerd 382]

look here:

Automate custom model supports

[kmanstudios 1,120]

If it is a simple enough structure or depending on the software you are using, to slice it into two parts, keeping the same pivot point for both parts. Then use 'per model settings' to assign the part that needs support to have it and the part that does not need support to not have support. Then go to edit and merge the two models. It will still print as a continuous piece but without the supports going all the way up.

If you have an uneven bottom as I see in the capture, I have actually put a small box just below the model to raise the model off the bed plate.

Cura will not let you 'raise' the model in positive Z. But it will, as gr5 states, allow you to move below the plate to create a flat bottom.

[tomnagel 126]

Cura allows a positive Z-offset when the option "drop model to build plate" is turned off.

I think zerspaner_gerd has given the right answer, though it is not easy. Ask for help if you can't get it done. Some day, this will be more user friendly!

[kmanstudios 1,120]

Huh.....I would have figured that typing in a value would just override that functionality.

Oh well, live and learn. Thanks!!

[kmanstudios 1,120]

Cura allows a positive Z-offset when the option "drop model to build plate" is turned off.

I think zerspaner_gerd has given the right answer, though it is not easy. Ask for help if you can't get it done. Some day, this will be more user friendly!

Ok, I went and took a look. It does work as you say. But is it possible for the typed in heights override the autoplacement rather than the other way around?

It is nice to have the models placed right on the buildplate, but one errant vertex can keep it from making contact.

You can move it, in a difficult way, but the autoplacement does not want to play nice with the truly subtle variances even when moving negative Z.

I have to grab the Z arrow and move it and it is much more crude than being able to type in a specific value and have it stick.