3D Printing: How important is the minimum layer height on a 3d printer? (3 solutions!)
Channel: Roel Van de Paar
Date: 2019-06-24

3D Printing: How important is the minimum layer height on a 3d printer?


The Question: I know the minimum layer height will effect how detailed of an item you can
print and the amount of time it takes to print something, but is it necessary
to have an extremely low minimum layer height if you plan to print only larger
objects?

Solutions Sample (Please watch the whole video to see all solutions, in order of how many people found them helpful)

== This solution helped 7 people ==
As with any manufacturing process, you'll need to learn to "use the right tool
for the job". It depends on the requirements of the part. To answer your
question, I would suggest using a larger layer height for the sheer fact of
reducing print time on larger objects.
However, it depends on the part and how small the details are on the part. If
your part has sharp edges that are required for the proper functionality of the
part, then you'll want to use a smaller layer height. Or if your part fits into
another part, you'll probably want to use a smaller layer height.
Another variable might be whether or not post-processing is necessary. Is this
part going to be purposefully printed larger/rougher with the idea to use a
Dremel later to smooth everything out? If yes, then use a larger layer height.

== This solution helped 9 people ==
I believe the http://manual.slic3r.org/first-print/first-layer summarizes this
quite nicely:
 A thicker layer height will provide more flow, and consequently more
 heat, making the extrusion adhere to the bed more. It also gives the
 benefit of giving more tolerance for the levelness of the bed. It is
 recommended to raise the first layer height to match the diameter of
 the nozzle, e.g. a first layer height of 0.35mm for a 0.35mm nozzle.
In other words, larger layer heights for the first layer typically gives better
adhesion, and makes inaccurate bed leveling (and auto leveling) still work.

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