Flow-rate calibration corrects the relationship between commanded and actual extrusion. It should follow extruder steps, filament diameter and temperature checks, not replace them. Change one variable at a time and verify with walls and dimensions.
Prepare the machine
- Confirm esteps and filament diameter.
- Remove nozzle wear or partial clog as a cause.
- Dry the filament and stabilise temperature.
Measure the flow
- Print a single-wall or calibrated test shape.
- Measure wall thickness at several positions.
- Adjust flow in small steps and repeat.
Verify the part
Check top surfaces, gaps, hole dimensions and feature strength. Flow that looks correct on a coupon can still be wrong at different speeds.
| Symptom | Likely check | Calibration response |
|---|---|---|
| Thin walls | Diameter or esteps | Confirm before flow change |
| Gaps between lines | Under-extrusion | Increase slightly and retest |
| Bulging corners | Over-extrusion or pressure | Reduce flow or tune pressure advance |
| Changing results | Temperature or moisture | Stabilise process first |
Common engineering mistakes
- Using flow to hide a clogged nozzle.
- Changing flow and esteps at the same time.
- Measuring one wall with callipers.
- Ignoring speed-dependent extrusion.
- Leaving slicer profiles undocumented.
Buyer checklist
- Are esteps verified?
- Is filament diameter measured?
- Are walls measured repeatedly?
- Is the test speed relevant?
- Is the final profile recorded?
Describe the printer, material and defect to our support team for a structured calibration path.