Builders/Config/Config Extruder

Configuring your Extruder

Configuring your extruder has a massive effect on the print quality. The best results are obtained by getting a consistent flow through the nozzle, and then tweaking the finer points of the slicing process to match.

The exact temperature setting will depend on your print material and your exact setup.

Printing with ABS

ABS melts at about 220 degrees C. The nozzle will have to be about that temperature to extrude correctly - but the temperature measured by your thermistor/thermocouple might vary quite a bit, you may have to set the temp setting to higher or lower than this value.

If you have problems reaching this temperature, try insulating the nozzle with silicone/fibreglass/loft insulation. Whatever you use, make sure it can resist temperates of 250 degrees.

If the temp is too low, it will not melt properly and will not come out or extrude very slowly.

If the temp is too high, ABS goes brown and can go hard and block the nozzle. It can also start to smoke or give off fumes.

Starting your extruder

Using the extruder exerciser,