3D Printer FYI

Print symptom

Under-extrusion

Gaps and thin walls from too little plastic. Check the extruder, first-layer height, and hotend cooling.

Under-extrusion
Editorial diagram of gapped walls from under-extrusion. Not a photograph of a specific printer.

  1. Inspect gear engagement and filament path for slipping/grinding.

    Extruder gears are not feeding filament correctly

    Clean/check extruder gears and restore proper filament grip/path.

    Next · Medium risk

  2. Check whether under-extrusion is strongest at the first layer.

    First layer/nozzle is too close to the bed

    Correct first-layer/nozzle distance before tuning flow.

    Try this first · Low risk

  3. Verify hotend fan operation and whether the issue worsens on long/hot prints.

    Insufficient hotend cooling contributes to poor extrusion

    Restore proper hotend cooling and remove any resulting clog.

    Next · Medium risk

Completing a check records what you tried. It does not eliminate a cause. Continue in the worksheet