Slicer (3D printing)

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A slicer is a toolpath generation software used in 3D printing. It facilitates the conversion of a 3D object model to specific instructions for the printer. The slicer converts a model in STL (stereolithography) format into printer commands in G-code format. This is particularly usable in fused filament fabrication and other related 3D printing processes. [1] [2] [3]

Contents

Features

A slicer initially segments the object as a stack of flat layers. It then describes these layers through linear movements of the 3D printer's extruder, the fixation laser, or an equivalent component. [4] All these movements, together with some specific printer commands like the ones to control the extruder temperature or bed temperature, are ultimately compiled in the G-code file. This file can then be transferred to the printer for execution.

Different densities of infill (in yellow), as generated by Cura slicer, from solid to hollow. Infill density.jpg
Different densities of infill (in yellow), as generated by Cura slicer, from solid to hollow.

Additional features of slicer are listed below:

Support structure (in blue) generated by Cura software. Support structure in 3D printing.jpg
Support structure (in blue) generated by Cura software.
Comparative of base layers (in blue): a) skirt; b) brim; c) raft, generated by Cura software Skirts, Brims, Rafts.jpg
Comparative of base layers (in blue): a) skirt; b) brim; c) raft, generated by Cura software

List of slicer software

There is a diverse array of slicer applications available, including many that are free and open source. Some of the most commonly used ones include:

NameLicenseRelations
Ultimaker Cura GNU LGPL
OrcaSlicerGNU AGPL Fork of BambuStudio
BambuStudioGNU AGPLFork of PrusaSlicer
SuperSlicerGNU AGPLFork of PrusaSlicer
PrusaSlicer GNU AGPLFork of Slic3r
Slic3r GNU AGPL
Creality PrintGNU AGPLBased on Cura
Fork of OrcaSlicer
Simplify3D Proprietary
Realvision onlineProprietaryOnline slicer

References

  1. Evans, Brian (25 September 2012). Practical 3D Printers: The Science and Art of 3D Printing. apress. ISBN   978-1-4302-4393-9.
  2. Keon Aristech Boozarjomehri (28 April 2016). 3D Printing at School and Makerspaces: Project Learning with 3D Printing. Cavendish Square. ISBN   978-1-6804-5016-3.
  3. Liza Wallach Kloski, Nick Kloski (2016). Getting Started with 3D Printing: A Hands-on Guide to the Hardware, Software, and Services Behind the New Manufacturing Revolution. Maker Media, Inc. ISBN   978-1-6804-5020-0.
  4. "The Best Slicer Software For All Levels". 3dsourced. 2023-10-29. Retrieved 2023-12-21.
  5. "When should I use a raft, when should I use a brim?". 3D Printing Stack Exchange. Retrieved 2018-09-15.
  6. "Rafts, Skirts and Brims!". www.simplify3d.com. Retrieved 2018-09-15.