3D Printers

Correct Answer: Increase flow rate or extrusion multiplier

Visible gaps between layers in a 3D printed object are usually caused by underextrusion, meaning not enough plastic is being extruded during printing. The most direct way to solve this is to increase the flow rate or extrusion multiplier setting in the slicer software. This will force the printer to extrude more plastic, filling in the gaps. The other options, while they may have some effect, do not address the root cause as directly. Decreasing retraction can help reduce gaps caused by the extruder retracting too much plastic between travel moves, but is less likely the primary cause here. Increasing temperature can improve layer adhesion but is more likely to cause sagging or stringing than to fill gaps. Bed leveling ensures the first layer adheres properly but does not affect higher layers. Therefore, increasing flow rate or extrusion multiplier is the best first step to try to eliminate the visible gaps between layers in this print.

Correct Answer: Use a smaller nozzle size

To capture fine details in 3D prints, using a smaller nozzle size is the most effective solution. A smaller nozzle diameter allows for more precise extrusion of the filament, resulting in improved resolution and the ability to reproduce intricate features. While lowering the printing speed can also help with detail reproduction by allowing the material more time to adhere properly, it is not as impactful as reducing the nozzle size. Increasing the infill percentage primarily affects the internal structure and strength of the print, rather than the surface details. Similarly, increasing the printing temperature may improve layer adhesion and reduce warping, but it has limited influence on capturing fine details compared to using a smaller nozzle.

Correct Answer: Clean the nozzle after each filament change

To prevent extrusion issues after changing filaments, clean the nozzle to remove any residual material from the previous filament. Other options mentioned may affect print quality but do not address the root cause.