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What is the accuracy of my 3D printer?

3D Printing Help Centre

3D PRINTING HELP CENTRE

In the 123-3D help centre, we answer all your questions about 3D software and printer settings, problems you may experience during or after 3D printing and other 3D-related topics.

What is the accuracy of my 3D printer?

The accuracy of your 3D printer depends on a number of factors, including the print resolution, the settings of your printer and slicer software, and the material you use. This means that not only do the properties of the 3D printer determine the accuracy, but you can also fine-tune a number of upgrades or settings to improve it.

Which factors ensure accurate 3D prints?

Don't have a 3D printer at home yet, or are you looking into purchasing a new 3D printer? Then it is important to pay attention to the following factors during the purchase process so that your 3D prints will achieve a high degree of accuracy.

  • The resolution of the printer

The printer's resolution depends on the horizontal and vertical resolution. These two terms refer to the minimal movement the extruder can make on the XY axis and the minimum layer thickness which the 3D printer can create. As a rule, the lower these values, the higher the resolution.

Would you like to know more about the print resolution? This can be found in our specially developed article: With what resolution can I 3D print?

  • The printing technique

An SLA printer is more accurate than an FFF printer. The SLA printer works with a liquid resin that is exposed and cured by a laser beam (or projector). This laser beam has a tiny spot, which makes this technique very accurate. In addition, the 3D prints look more streamlined and less post-processing is required.

FFF printers work with plastic filament that is built up layer by layer on the print bed via a nozzle (nozzle). Accuracy is largerly dependent on the diameter of the nozzle which is available in different sizes. However, these are generally less accurate than a laser beam. Read more about the difference between SLA and FFF printers.

  • Calibration of the 3D printer

The calibration of your 3D printer mainly relates to the setting of your 3D printer and slicer software. Think of the settings for a perfect first print layer, the steps of your extruder and the filament settings. Would you like to know which factors need to be adjusted exactly for a successful calibration of your 3D printer? Read more about the calibration of your 3D printer and prevent printing problems such as over extrusion and under extrusion.
 

How can I improve the accuracy of my 3D printer?

As stated earlier, the accuracy of your 3D printer does not only depend on the settings of your 3D printer, but also the material and filament type. Below is a list of things you can do yourself to improve the accuracy of your 3D printer.

Choose the right nozzle

If you want to print a 3D object with many details, it is essential to use a nozzle with the smallest possible diameter. The standard nozzle has a diameter of 0.4mm, but nozzles of 0.2mm or nozzles of 0.15mm are also available. In addition, the right nozzle also depends on the type of filament you use. Make sure that the maximum printing temperature of the nozzle and the ideal melting temperature of the filament match each other.

  • The print bed

Are you planning to print with filament types that have a high melting temperature? Then the use of a heated bed is essential for accurate 3D prints. A heated bed ensures that your 3D prints gradually cool down to prevent warping of your print. In addition, it is important that your print bed is flat and even so that the first layer can adhere perfectly.

TIP: Then the use of a heated bed is essential for accurate 3D prints. A heated bed ensures that your 3D prints gradually cool down to prevent warping of your print. In addition, it is important that your print bed is flat and even so that the first layer can adhere perfectly. Read more about how to level the 3D printbed.

  • The print speed

For 3D objects where a high degree of accuracy is required, it is wise to reduce the print speed to a maximum of 40mm/s. In general, the lower the print speed, the more accurate the print. Keep in mind that the total printing time is considerably extended.

  • The type of filament

Especially when you just start with 3D printing, it is important to pay attention to the type of filament you choose. PLA filament is the easiest to work with and requires little to no adjustments to your default settings. Do you want to start printing with ABS, PETG of flexible filament? Then you will have to adjust various settings such as the steps and the printing temperature or even purchase a heated bed. Achieving the optimum accuracy of your 3D printer is in this case a slightly more difficult task and requires some expertise.  

Do you have another question?

Have you not been able to find the answer to your question in the overview above? At 123-3D.co.uk we are busy with 3D printing every day and we like to follow every development. We are happy to share the knowledge and experience that we have built up over the years with you in our 3D printing help centre!
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