1. What is Flow Rate in 3D Printing?

Flow rate in 3D printing refers to the volume of filament extruded per second, measured in mm³/s. It's crucial for ensuring proper extrusion and print quality, especially when using slicers like Orca Slicer.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple flow rate equation:

Where:

• \( Volume \) — Volume of extruded filament (mm³)
• \( Time \) — Time taken for extrusion (seconds)

Explanation: This calculation helps determine the optimal extrusion rate for your 3D printer's hotend and nozzle configuration.

3. Importance of Flow Rate Calculation

Details: Proper flow rate ensures consistent extrusion, prevents under/over-extrusion, and helps achieve dimensional accuracy in prints.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the volume of extruded filament in mm³ and the time taken in seconds. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical flow rate for PLA?
A: Most PLA filaments work well between 10-15 mm³/s, but this depends on your hotend's capabilities.

Q2: How do I measure volume for this calculation?
A: Measure the length of extruded filament and calculate volume using πr² × length (r = filament radius).

Q3: Why is flow rate important in Orca Slicer?
A: Orca Slicer uses flow rate to optimize extrusion parameters for different print speeds and materials.

Q4: What affects flow rate in 3D printing?
A: Nozzle diameter, filament viscosity, temperature, and printing speed all affect the maximum achievable flow rate.

Q5: How does flow rate relate to print speed?
A: Higher print speeds require higher flow rates to maintain proper extrusion, up to your hotend's limits.