The influence of support base on FDM accuracy in Z

Purpose - The aim of this work is to study the influence of the quality (surface profile) of the support base on dimensional accuracy in the Z-axis in fused deposition modeling (FDM). Design/methodology/approach -The surface profile of a support base produced using a standard (default) FDM configuration is analyzed experimentally, and two new deposition configurations are proposed. Some parts are built using these approaches, and the influence of the profile on Z accuracy is investigated. The parts are examined using a contact method and measured using a caliper. Findings -The surface profile of the support base has a direct influence on FDM part accuracy in Z. The results show that the accuracy in the Z dimension of an FDM prototype can be increased by improving the surface quality of the support base. In cases where accuracy is paramount, this can be achieved by better planning (tuning) of the support strategy. Originality/value -A significant component of the Z error in FDM has been identified and studied.