Cooling is a critical aspect of 3D printing that involves rapidly cooling the extruded filament to maintain its shape and prevent deformation. When filament is extruded from the hot nozzle, it needs to solidify quickly to maintain the intended geometry and prevent issues like warping, stringing, or layer shifting.
Most 3D printers are equipped with cooling fans that blow air onto the printed layers to accelerate the cooling process. These fans are typically positioned near the print head and can be controlled through the slicer software. The cooling settings can be adjusted based on the material being used and the specific requirements of the print.
Different materials require different cooling strategies. PLA, for example, benefits from high cooling rates and can be printed with the cooling fan running at full speed. ABS, on the other hand, requires minimal cooling to prevent warping and layer separation, so the cooling fan is often turned off or set to very low speeds.
Cooling settings can be fine-tuned in the slicer software, including fan speed percentages, when the fan turns on (usually after the first few layers), and cooling thresholds. Some advanced slicers also offer layer-specific cooling settings that can vary the cooling rate based on layer time or geometry.
Proper cooling is essential for achieving good print quality, especially for features like overhangs, bridges, and small details. Insufficient cooling can lead to poor surface finish, while excessive cooling can cause warping or layer adhesion issues. Finding the right balance is key to successful 3D printing.
