>> Build Plate Adhesion and Supports

Supports are used to create a structure underneath parts of the model that would otherwise be hanging in thin air or that don’t have enough structure from the other parts of the model.

Supports create a stable base to print overhangs and bridges over 5mm and are easily removed with pliers after the print is finished. When using a slicing software like Bambu Studio, setting the support angle to 30° is a good default. An angle of 90° provides no support unless the print angle is perpendicular to the build plate and 0° provides support everywhere. When your print requires support, you can use the easy-to-remove breakaway filaments for your support material.

( <- a green fox with orange removable supports )

 

 

The Bambu X1 Carbon printers include a cold bed with a required glue stick application to help the plastic filament stick to the build plate during the printing process. In general, any print with a regular PLA material and has a large flat bottom should stick to the build plate without too much difficulty. In some cases, such as  particular colors, materials with additives, or models that don't have many flat areas touching the build plate, it may be useful to use a different build plate adhesion method.

Build Plate Adhesion is important, as the first layer is the most likely point of failure for most prints.

There are 2 different types of Build Plate Adhesion.

 

 

Skirt Method  

This is the normally recommended method to use. The skirt method is the equivalent of scribbling a pen before you write and ensures that the filament is extruding correctly.  The Bambu X1 Carbon already does this elsewhere on the plate as part of calibration, but you can add additional skirt lines if you'd like.

(Best for large, flat prints)

 

 

Brim Method 

Using the Brim Method helps the first layer stick to the build plate better.  This method can help tall, skinny prints not tip over while printing. Remember, any additional build plate adhesion will need to be removed after the print. In the case of  the brim, you will need to either carefully peel or cut away the excess material.   The Bambu X1 Carbon defaults to auto brim and will print a brim if the software recommends including a brim.

(Best for lots of bridging)