Tips from an AE: Intro to Variable Width Infill
When I am processing FDM parts I like to achieve the best fill possible in order to maximize the part’s aesthetics and strength. However, thin walls, gradual tapers, and fine details can sometimes be a challenge to properly fill using Insight’s default tool paths. Usually you need to apply custom groups to each layer which requires the user to have a good understanding of FDM toolpath manipulation and can take a bit of time. Stratasys has made this process much easier now with the newly added Variable Width Infill option that allows anyone to achieve the same effect for the entire part with even greater detail and precision in a single step!
 Using Default Tool Paths |
 Using Variable Width Infill |
There are 2 ways you can apply the Variable Width Infill option:
|
1. GrabCAD Print Print Settings > “Use Variable Width Fill” |
2. Insight Toolpaths > Tool Path Parameters > “Use variable width remnant fill” |
|
|
|
A few quick tips for when you are using Variable Width Infill:
- You must be running Insight 12.6 or newer or compatible with GrabCAD Print Advanced FDM
- Variable Width Infill is a Global setting, meaning it will affect every layer of your part
- Custom Groups can still be applied on specific layers after using Variable Width Infill
If you are a big custom group user, you can thank Stratasys for adding this new time saving features that results in better aesthetics and strength for small/thin features.
– David Kadlec, Additive Manufacturing Engineer