Overhang

Also known as: Overhang Angle

beginner Techniques

A portion of a print that extends outward without direct support from the layer below.

An overhang is any part of a print that extends beyond the layer below it. How well your printer handles overhangs depends on angle, cooling, and material.

The 45° Rule

Most printers handle overhangs up to 45° from vertical without support. Beyond that, quality degrades or supports are needed.

  • 0-30° - Usually perfect
  • 30-45° - Good with proper cooling
  • 45-60° - Possible, may have rough underside
  • 60-90° - Likely needs supports

Improving Overhang Performance

Cooling

  • More cooling = better overhangs
  • Solidify plastic faster before it droops
  • Part cooling fan at 100%

Speed

  • Slower speed helps
  • More time for cooling

Temperature

  • Lower temp = faster solidification
  • Don’t go too low (adhesion issues)

Layer Height

  • Lower layers = better overhangs
  • More gradual transitions

Material Differences

  • PLA - Best overhangs, cools fast
  • PETG - Moderate, needs more cooling
  • ABS - Poor, minimal cooling allowed
  • TPU - Poor, flexible sags easily

Tips

  • Orient model to minimize overhangs
  • Use supports only where needed
  • Consider splitting model into parts