Bridging is a 3D printing technique that allows the printer to create horizontal spans between two support points without any underlying material. This occurs when the printer needs to print across gaps or voids in the model, such as when creating overhangs, holes, or open spaces.
During bridging, the printer extrudes filament that must maintain its shape while spanning the gap. This requires careful management of several parameters including print speed, cooling, and extrusion settings. The filament needs to cool quickly enough to prevent sagging, but not so quickly that it breaks or fails to adhere properly.
Successful bridging depends on several factors: the length of the bridge, the type of material being used, the print speed, and the cooling system's effectiveness. Shorter bridges are generally easier to print successfully, while longer bridges may require slower speeds and increased cooling to prevent the filament from drooping.
Most modern slicers include specific bridging settings that automatically adjust speed, cooling, and extrusion parameters when bridges are detected. These settings help ensure that bridges are printed with optimal parameters for the best results.
Poor bridging can result in sagging filament, rough surfaces, or even failed prints. Therefore, understanding how to optimize bridging settings is important for achieving high-quality prints, especially for models with overhangs or gaps.
