Normal support expansion
How far a normal support sticks out around the part in the air that it holds up. Positive values widen it (the edges are better supported); negative values narrow it (so it doesn't bump into anything).
How it works
By default, a normal support covers exactly the shadow of the overhang (the part of the model that hangs in the air). With a positive expansion, that margin grows on every side: the edge of the overhang rests on support instead of air, and the column is wider and more stable.
With a negative expansion, the support ends up narrower than the overhang: the edges are left unsupported, but the support doesn't touch nearby walls or parts.
When to change it
- For almost anything: 0, the default.
- The edge of a printed cap's visor curls up because it's hanging in the air: 1–2 mm.
- The support under a model's balcony bumps into the wall next to it: −0.5 to −1 mm.
Typical values
| Value | What for |
|---|---|
| 0 | Defaultdefault |
| 1–2 mm | Better-supported edges |
| −0.5 to −1 mm | Avoids collisions |
Watch out for
- It only works on normal supports; tree supports have their own branch settings.
- The “Grid” “Style” already widens the support a bit on its own.
Goes well with
What Bambu Studio saysits help card, quoted
What Bambu Studio says
Expand (+) or shrink (-) the horizontal span of normal support
Bambu Studio tooltip for this setting · AGPL-3.0
Read more at the official source
In your profile0.20mm Standard @BBL A1 · 0 mm
In Bambu Studio, the profile 0.20mm Standard @BBL A1 sets it to0 mm
In other slicers
- Orca Slicer
- Normal Support expansionSupport › Advanced
- PrusaSlicer
- No clear equivalent.
- Cura
- Support Horizontal ExpansionSupport
Names taken from each program's code (Orca Slicer 2.4.2, PrusaSlicer 2.9.6, Cura 5.13.0). Credits