Eiger software provides various infill patterns. These options are: Triangular fill, Hexagonal fill, Rectangular fill, Gyroid fill, Solid fill. Initially it may appear that all these choices lack a specific purpose, however this is not the case. Let’s take a look at each of these options in more detail.
By default, the triangular infilloption is selected in Eiger, & this is for good reason. This infill is the strongest type because of its shape; it is least likely to deform and provides the best support structure inside the walls of the part. This type of infill prints relatively quickly, as the print head travels mostly in straight lines across the part. The strength and speed combination ensures that triangular infill is one of the best choices in 3D printing for most common applications.
Rectangular infill has the most options in terms of density. Users can create very low-density parts, for example with 10% infill, to quickly check fit and finish; or choose 90% infill for greater rigidity. Rectangular infill also prints quickly as the printhead mostly moves in straight lines as opposed to frequently changing directions.
Hexagonal infill pattern, with its tessellating hexagons, has the highest strength to weight ratios. However, it takes the longest to print of any infill types because the printhead must keep constantly changing direction. It is great for applications where strengthto weight ratio is of importance.
The Gyroid infill pattern is an infinitely connected wavy shape that creates high strength to weight ratio, specifically when it comes to shear resistance. This is a good choice for products that require isotropic strength, meaning the part has the same bending resistance in each direction.
Finally, the solid fill pattern option (effectively rectangular infill with 100% density) produces a fully dense partand is great for parts that require good resistance to compressive loading. In addition, this pattern is ideal for further machining and post processing as this there is no risk of exposure to the infill pattern.
In conclusion, the various infill patterns provide a wide range of options for tweaking the mechanical properties of the 3D printed parts.
