What Is Stringing? Understanding the Common 3D Printing Issue

Definition

Stringing, also known as “oozing” or “whiskers,” is a common issue in additive manufacturing, particularly in Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). It occurs when small strands of filament are left behind on a 3D printed object as the extruder moves from one point to another without retracting the filament properly. These unwanted strands can affect the surface quality and overall appearance of the printed part.

Explain Stringing like I’m 5

Imagine you’re using a glue gun to draw a picture. Sometimes, when you move the glue gun from one spot to another, little strings of glue get left behind. In 3D printing, stringing is like those glue strings, but with melted plastic.

Why does this matter?

Stringing is important to address because it can significantly impact the quality and aesthetics of 3D printed parts. Reducing or eliminating stringing leads to smoother surfaces and more accurate prints, which is crucial for both prototyping and end-use applications. Understanding and mitigating stringing can save time on post-processing and improve the overall efficiency of the printing process.

Real Talk

While stringing can be a nuisance, it’s a common issue that most 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals encounter. The good news is that it can often be minimized with proper printer settings, such as adjusting retraction speed and distance, or by tweaking the printing temperature. However, completely eliminating stringing can be challenging, especially with certain materials that are prone to oozing. It’s a manageable problem, but one that requires some trial and error to perfect.