In a video, Maker Michael from the YouTube channel Teaching Tech presents a clever compensation function for slicer software. The feature called “Small Area Flow Compensation” regulates the extrusion rates for shorter distances and thus minimizes characteristic overhangs and unevenness.
The basic idea comes from Alexander Teos and has been implemented in PrusaSlicer and the popular alternative OrcaSlicer. By specifically adjusting the material throughput for each individual extrusion length, printing artifacts can be significantly reduced.
“Especially with short lengths, the throughput often tends to be higher and creates overhangs,” the YouTuber explains the challenge. “This function compensates for this and delivers a cleaner surface.”
The compensation model defines throughput factors from 100% at 10+ mm to lower rates for distances below 2-3 mm. Users can make manual adjustments.
Michael has developed a special test print for this: A surface only 2 mm thick with different short extrusions allows weak points to be recognized immediately. By successively optimizing the model parameters, he achieved a much cleaner result. The whole thing is supplemented by an Excel spreadsheet for convenient parameter adjustment including curve display. Both can be downloaded free of charge from Printables.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
3DPresso is a weekly newsletter that links to the most exciting global stories from the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industry.
