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Small parts or details are missing from my 3D print

Small parts or details are missing from my 3D print

3D PRINTING HELP CENTRE

In the 123-3D help centre, we answer all your questions about 3D software and printer settings, problems you may experience during or after 3D printing and other 3D-related topics.

Small parts or details are missing from my 3D print

Does it seem that certain small parts of your 3D print are completely or partially missing? Then printing with a nozzle that is too large is usually the cause. Most 3D printers are equipped with a 0.4mm nozzle. With this common size you can print almost all objects without any problems, unless the details you want to print are smaller than the diameter of your nozzle.

How can you successfully print small details?

There are several ways to successfully print extremely thin and small, detailed parts. That is why we have made an overview of the most common causes and solutions.

Activate the ‘single extrusion walls’ function
Most slicer software providers - Simplif3D and Cura - have developed a special module that allows you to successfully print thin objects. For this you only need to change the settings of your 'external thin wall type' in your slicer software to ‘allow single extrusion walls’ of ‘vase mode’. You can immediately see whether the missing details can still be printed in this way.
Customise the design of your 3D print
If parts of your 3D print are still missing after this, adjust the design. Widen the narrow parts so that they have at least the diameter of your nozzle. Import the new design into your slicer software and verify whether the parts can now be printed.
Replace the nozzle
Are you unable to adjust the design? Then purchasing a new nozzle is a smart idea. Most 3D experts choose a 0.3mm and a 0.5mm nozzle for more variation during printing. When designing and printing thin parts, it is important to keep the diameter of the nozzle, or multiple thereof, in mind so that the printer can easily build up your 3D print in layers.

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