Which Layer Height Do You Print In? 3D Printing Resolutions Explained

In today’s video, we cover tuning in your layer height, another crucial part of printing parts perfectly every time.

Most 3D printers on the market utilize the standard 0.4 millimeter printing nozzle and use a default setting of 0.2 millimeter layer height. This combination follows a rule of thumb where your layer height is half the size of the nozzle you print with.

Of course, you can always experiment with flatter, wider nozzles versus skinnier and more-pointed nozzles, but Vision Miner recommends following this ratio if you are just starting out.

Moreover, you can go down from 0.2 millimeters to 0.1 or 0.05 on most machines. The trade-off with smaller nozzle diameters is between print resolution and printing time. For example, if you switch from a 0.2mm nozzle to a 0.1mm nozzle, you extrude half as much plastic and double your layer count, effectively doubling your print time, as well. However, you will end up with a part that comes out much more dimensionally accurate and aesthetically pleasing.

The balance between nozzle diameter and layer height comes down to both personal preference and project requirements. If you need a part fast and it does not matter how that part looks, then you can go with higher layer heights and a larger nozzle with little concern. But, if you need a part to fit accurate specifications as well as look detailed, you may consider going with thinner layer heights, assuming you have the time required.

With all this in mind, Vision Miner recommends sticking with a standard 0.4mm nozzle and 0.2mm layer height if you’re a beginner in 3D printing.

If you’re interesting in learning more about tuning, check back on the blog for more updates and visit our YouTube channel for more videos! At Vision Miner, we specialize in Functional 3D printing, especially high-performance plastics like PEEK, ULTEM, PPSU, PPS, CFPA, and more. We also have extensive experience with 3D scanners, and a whole array of solutions available for purchase. If you're interested in using functional 3D printing and materials in your business, feel free to reach out, and we can help you make the right choice for your application.

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[JoeBob]

I'm pretty new to 3D printing, I've just printed a few small bits and bobs so far, but this caught me out today.
I went to print a part for my car and it was coming up as about 12 hours on my 0.4mm nozzle with a 0.2mm layer height, and I had the "genius" idea to increase the layer height from 0.2mm to 0.4mm and cut the time in half, since the part didn't really have to look too nice.
On my attempt the first layer was a bit wonky in places so I assumed the bed wasn't levelled properly, and so I levelled it again, and cleaned it. Again. Still not realising that the layer height was too large.
Same thing the second time, and I still didn't realise, and so I abandoned it and let the failure simmer in my mind for a while until I remembered that the layer height was the only other variable.
It's a lesson I won't forget again!

[ungratefulpeasant]

Had I watched this earlier today it would have saved me 8 test prints to figure this out lol... Good, short, and to the point video.

[gregpruitt]

My printer lists Max and Min layer heights. Which of these numbers are you referencing in this video?

[_micha__]

what are the settings for 0.15 nozzle i cant find very much on the internet :/ can you help please?

[Popesta]

Theres 2 minutes of my life i'll never get back. All that to say stick with default. Nothing to see here

[ratandanush]

How to calculate the resolution of a 3D printer? Is there like a formula to it?

[survintunes]

when someone says they printed at "200" resolution wth does that mean????

[jeff]

is this the same guy from teaching tech without the accent ? lol

[FLYLAZYBONE]

I won't go to deep in to this? noooo go deep dude. I need to know this.

[kentharris]

I am printing a Covid-19 mask. If I printed at 0.28 MM layer height would the mask still be just as strong?