UP Plus 2 3D Printer User Manual v 2013.10.24
10.2 Removing Support Material
Printed models are composed of two parts. One part is the model itself, and the other part is the
support material used to support any overhanging parts of the model.
The support material is the same physical material as the model material, but the support material
is printed at a lower density. It is very easy to distinguish the model from the support material so it
is easy to remove.
Have a look at the teapot in the above pictures. The left picture shows the teapot with its support
material still attached and the right picture shows the teapot with support material removed.
The support material gets removed using a combination of tools. Some material can easily be
cracked off by hand. Support material close to the model is easier to remove using tools such as
the knife and cutters.
It takes some practice to get comfortable with removing support material, but it can become quite
an enjoyable and therapeutic task!
Pulling the support off by hand will normally cause ABS fatigue white marks (were the ABS plas-
tic goes white from stress). You can easily get the original colour of the ABS back with a slight
brushing of Acetone (nail varnish remover) or a quick wave over with a heat gun.
TIP: If you find it difficult to remove the Support or Raft try printing with the extruder door
open, but watch out for warping. Open the door after the raft is complete.
11.2
CAUTION: ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WHEN REMOVING SUPPORT MATERIAL,
ESPECIALLY WITH PLA MATERIAL.
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