What is Raft? Understanding the Raft Consensus Algorithm

Definition

A raft in additive manufacturing is a horizontal latticework of filament that is printed underneath the actual part. It serves as a foundation to improve adhesion to the build platform and to help prevent warping or other issues that can occur during the printing process. The raft is typically removed after the print is completed.

Explain Raft like I’m 5

Think of a raft like a pancake that you make before you start building a toy with your 3D printer. This pancake helps the toy stick to the plate so it doesn’t wobble or fall over while you’re making it. Once the toy is done, you peel off the pancake and just keep the toy.

Why does this matter?

Rafts are crucial for ensuring that the first layer of a print adheres well to the build platform, especially when dealing with materials that are prone to warping. They provide a stable base that can help prevent issues like curling edges or shifting layers, which can ruin a print. This is particularly important for large or complex parts where maintaining stability throughout the print is challenging.

Real Talk

While rafts can be a lifesaver for tricky prints, they come with their own set of challenges. Removing the raft can sometimes be difficult and may leave marks or require additional post-processing to smooth out the bottom of the part. They also use extra material and increase print time, which can be a downside if you’re looking to optimize efficiency and cost. Rafts are great for improving adhesion and stability, but they aren’t always necessary and can add extra steps to your workflow.

Raft in 3D Printing

In the realm of additive manufacturing, particularly in 3D printing, a ‘raft’ refers to a foundational layer of material that is printed first on the build platform. This layer serves as a base upon which the actual object is constructed. The primary purpose of a raft is to enhance adhesion to the build plate, thereby reducing the risk of warping or detachment during the printing process. This is especially crucial when working with materials that are prone to shrinkage or when printing objects with a small footprint that might not adhere well on their own.

Rafts are typically used in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing, where the first few layers of the print are laid down in a crisscross pattern to form a stable base. This technique is particularly beneficial when printing with ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), a material known for its tendency to warp due to its high thermal contraction. By using a raft, manufacturers can ensure that the initial layers of the print remain flat and secure, leading to higher quality and more reliable prints.

In industrial applications, rafts are crucial for producing complex geometries and intricate designs that require precise layer adhesion. They are also used in prototyping and small-scale production runs where the cost of failed prints can be significant. By providing a stable foundation, rafts help in achieving dimensional accuracy and surface finish, which are critical in engineering and manufacturing sectors. Despite the additional material and time required to print a raft, the benefits in terms of print success and quality often outweigh these costs, making rafts an important consideration in the 3D printing process.