What are some common layer height problems and how can you troubleshoot them in 3D printing?

2 How does layer height affect print quality?

Layer height has a direct impact on the print quality of your models, as it affects the resolution, surface finish, and accuracy of your prints. Generally speaking, the lower the layer height, the higher the print quality, as the layers are less visible and the details are more defined. However, lower layer heights also mean longer print times, more filament usage, and more risk of clogging or jamming the nozzle. On the other hand, higher layer heights mean faster print times, less filament usage, and more airflow through the nozzle, but also lower print quality, as the layers are more visible and the details are more coarse.

3 How to choose the right layer height?

When deciding on the right layer height for your 3D printing project, it’s important to consider the type of model, the purpose of the print, the nozzle size, the filament material, and your personal preference. Generally speaking, a low layer height such as 0.1 mm or lower is ideal for models that require high detail and accuracy like miniatures or jewelry. If you’re looking for moderate detail and accuracy, opt for a layer height of 0.15 mm or 0.2 mm, such as with functional parts or toys. And if you need low detail and accuracy, such as with large objects or prototypes, use a higher layer height like 0.25 mm or 0.3 mm.

4 What are some common layer height problems?

Sometimes, you may encounter some problems with your prints that are related to the layer height setting. Underextrusion is when the nozzle does not extrude enough filament to form a solid layer, resulting in gaps, holes, or weak spots in your prints. This can happen if the layer height is too low for the nozzle size or the filament diameter, or if the extrusion multiplier is too low. Overextrusion is when the nozzle extrudes too much filament to form a layer, resulting in blobs, strings, or excess material in your prints. This can happen if the layer height is too high for the nozzle size or the filament diameter, or if the extrusion multiplier is too high. Elephant foot is when the bottom layers of your prints are wider than the rest, resulting in a bulging or distorted base. This can happen if the layer height is too high for the first layer, or if the bed temperature or the bed leveling is too high. To fix these issues, try increasing or decreasing the layer height, extrusion multiplier, nozzle size, filament diameter and/or lowering bed temperature and/or bed leveling.

5 How to test and calibrate your layer height?

A calibration cube is a useful tool for testing and calibrating your layer height. This cube is 20 mm x 20 mm x 20 mm, and you can find many models online or design your own. To use the cube, print it with your desired layer height and other settings, and let it cool down. Then measure the dimensions of the cube with a caliper or ruler and compare them to the expected values. If the dimensions are off, adjust the layer height or extrusion multiplier, then print another cube and repeat until you get the desired dimensions and quality.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?