slicer (3D printing)

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.{{Cite web |date=2023-10-29 |title=The Best Slicer Software For All Levels |url=https://www.3dsourced.com/ |access-date=2023-12-21 |website=3dsourced |language=en-US}} 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.

File:Infill density.jpgAdditional features of slicer are listed below:

• Infill: Printing solid objects requires a significant amount of material (such as filament) and time. To mitigate this, slicers can automatically convert solid volumes to hollow ones, thereby saving costs and reducing print time. These hollow objects can be reinforced with internal structures, like internal walls, to enhance robustness. The proportion of these structures, known as 'infill density', is a key parameter that can be adjusted in the slicer.

File:Support structure in 3D printing.jpg

• Supports: Since most 3D printing processes build objects layer by layer, from the bottom up, each new layer is deposited directly on top of the previous one. Consequently, every part of the object must, to some extent, rest on another part. For layers that are 'floating'—for example, the flat roof of a house or a horizontally extended arm in a figure—the slicer can automatically add supports. These supports are designed to touch the object in a manner that allows for easy detachment upon the completion of the object's production. The two main types of support are the standard lattice, in a zig-zag pattern (shown in image to right) and a tree structure where a main branch attaches to the print bed and grows arms to support overhangs. Tree supports are considered easier to remove and consume less filament.

File:Skirts, Brims, Rafts.jpg

• Rafts, skirts and brims: The printing of the first object layer, which contacts the printer bed, presents unique challenges, such as adherence issues, surface rugosity, and the smooth deposition of the initial filament.{{Cite web|url=https://3dprinting.stackexchange.com/questions/65/when-should-i-use-a-raft-when-should-i-use-a-brim|title=When should I use a raft, when should I use a brim?|website=3D Printing Stack Exchange|access-date=2018-09-15}} To mitigate these problems, the slicer can automatically add detachable structures. Common types of these base structures include: {{Cite web|url=https://www.simplify3d.com/support/articles/rafts-skirts-and-brims/|title=Rafts, Skirts and Brims!|website=www.simplify3d.com|language=en-US|access-date=2018-09-15}}
• A skirt: A single band encircling the object's base, without touching it.
• A brim: Multiple lines of filament around the base of the object, touching but not underneath it, and extending outward.
• A raft: Several layers of material forming a detachable base on which the object is printed.

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:

class="wikitable sortable"
Name ! License	class="unsortable"| Relations
Ultimaker Cura | GNU LGPL
OrcaSlicer | GNU AGPL | Fork of BambuStudio
BambuStudio | GNU AGPL | Fork of PrusaSlicer
SuperSlicer | GNU AGPL | Fork of PrusaSlicer
PrusaSlicer | GNU AGPL | Fork of Slic3r
Slic3r | GNU AGPL |
Creality Print | GNU AGPL | Based on Cura
Simplify3D | Proprietary |
Realvision online | Proprietary | Online slicer

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