May 26, 2020
The 3D printing tip series features different "hacks" you can use to get better 3D prints! Each tip showcases a common problem that comes with 3D printing and offers quick and easy solutions for you to get an edge. Today we're troubleshooting under extrusion.
So you got a printer, and you're getting perfect prints that don't warp off the plate (if they warp, check out Tip #2: Improving Build Plate Adhesion). A few months into 3D printing your objects are looking rougher and rougher; eventually becoming so under extruded you can't even use them. That's okay, this is a normal part of 3D printing and the fix is often quick and easy!
Most common symptoms of under extrusion:
When troubleshooting, make sure to change one thing at a time. Changing multiple factors at the same time will make it harder to pinpoint exactly what is causing the under extrusion issue. Here is a table with the most common culprits of under extrusion in the order that you should troubleshoot them:
Possible root cause | Action |
Filament tangle |
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Heat sink fan failure or malfunction |
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Bowden tube is not inserted correctly |
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Build chamber overheating and causing the filament to expand in the cold area of the heatsink causing a clog |
|
Incorrect slicer settings |
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Slicer settings don't match the loaded filament |
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Incorrect feeder tension |
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Old filament that has absorbed too much moisture |
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Built-up gunk on the driving gear or bearing |
|
Clogged or semi-clogged extruder |
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Worn bowden tube or collets adding resistance to the filament movement |
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