Protocol 09.S // Support Analysis

Supports Volume
Estimator

Calculate support filament usage, cost, and print time impact. Compare Normal vs Tree supports to find the most efficient strategy for your geometry.

Model Parameters

Total Model Volume (cm³)

Tip: your slicer reports this value in the print summary.

Overhang Coverage

Estimated Overhang Area30%

5% — minimal80% — extensive

Support Type

Support Density

Infill Density15%

5% — sparse40% — dense

Material & Cost

Filament Material

▾

Filament Price (€/kg)

Support Analysis Results

Volume

5.4

cm³ of support

Weight

6.7

grams added

Cost

€0.13

support material

+Time

+12.0%

print duration

Type Comparison

Current (Normal)

5.4 cm³/ €0.13

Alternative (Tree)

3.5 cm³/ €0.09

Switch to Tree → Save

−1.9 cm³

−€0.05

Recommendation

For most FDM prints, 10–20% support density with Z-distance 0.2 mm gives the best balance of support strength and surface quality.

Formula Reference

vol = model_vol × (overhang/100) × (density/100) × type_factor

type_factor: Normal=1.0 · Tree=0.65

weight = vol × material_density

cost = (weight / 1000) × price_per_kg

Supports VolumeEstimator