Why are rounded corners difficult to produce in 3D prints using Fused Deposition Modeling?

The challenge of producing rounded corners in 3D prints using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) primarily stems from the geometric limitations and behavior of the printer's nozzle, which is typically cylindrical in shape. This cylindrical design affects how the molten filament is deposited on the print bed. When printing sharp corners, the nozzle can struggle to create the smooth transitions that rounded corners require, leading to a more angular appearance instead.

In addition, the nature of FDM printing involves the layering of material, where the filament is extruded in lines. The filament's flow and the nozzle's ability to create curves are limited by the diameter of the nozzle and the movement of the print head. Consequently, producing a smooth, rounded corner demands a more refined movement and deposition that a standard cylindrical nozzle might not effectively achieve without introducing visible artifacts or imperfections.

The other options, while they address certain aspects of printing, do not pinpoint the primary issue faced with rounded corners. The melting and warping of filament, the time consumption for prints, and the need for specialized software might have varying degrees of impact on the printing process but are not the key factors in why rounding corners poses a specific challenge in FDM. The inherent design of the printer's nozzle is the critical limitation