
The internal supports have a tree-like structure that start out thick at the bottom and split up to multiple branches at the top, culminating at a high density at the roof for maximum support. They can also be built anywhere, not just on the buildplate.

Lightning infill does not have any fixed or repeating structure. This may not necessarily be the case every single time, because lightning supports are automatically generated based on the geometry of the model. The name ‘lightning infill’ comes from the unique shape of the infill structure, which can be in the form of a lightning bolt. It takes a completely different approach to building infill to make it even faster and to consume less filament. Lightning infill is an infill option that was introduced in version 4.12 of Ultimaker Cura. We have written extensively in a past article about the different types of infill patterns and which one is best for strength, flexibility, and print speed. This provides a measure of mechanical support to the object while still keeping it lightweight and reducing filament use. Instead, they are printed with an infill – a structure based on a repeating pattern that reinforces the object’s outer shell. It is rare for a 3D printed object to be completely hollow, however. This speeds up the printing process, uses up less material, and allows the designer to control the weight and density of the finished project. One solution to the extended printing time is to build 3D prints that have partially hollow inner spaces. Since 3D printing builds objects layer by layer, a single 3D printing project can take several hours or even a few days. However, it is now known for being particularly quick. Some of its main benefits is that it can reproduce geometrically complex models and that it is economical even for small-volume orders. How exactly does lightning infill work? What benefits does it provide and should you be using it all the time? Why infill is essential in 3D printingģD printing is often described as a revolutionary alternative to more traditional manufacturing methods. Instead of relying on a fixed geometry, lightning infill adapts to the internal geometry of a model. Lightning infill is a fairly unconventional approach to building infill in 3D printed objects. Users often spend a lot of time tweaking infill settings to make marginal improvements in a product’s weight, filament cost, and printing time. It allows you to print objects that are significantly hollow inside while still maintain their visual appeal and a reasonable degree of strength and rigidity. Infill is one of the more essential concepts in 3D printing.

It is ideal for ornamental prints and prototypes but is not very useful for parts that should be functional or load-bearing. However, it provides only the bare minimum reinforcement and creates prints that have very non-homogenous mechanical properties. Lightning infill is an infill option in Ultimaker Cura that is focused on less filament usage and reduced printing time. 3D Insider is ad supported and earns money from clicks, commissions from sales, and other ways.
