In this quick reference guide, let's show the steps on how to calibrate E steps for a 3D printer.
The letter "E" simply means "Extruder", and Steps refers to the stepper motor.
Extruder means the number of steps a stepper motor takes to extrude 1mm of filament. Poor calibration leads to inaccurate prints due to over extrusion or under extrusion.
Tools Required
- Printer
- Filament
- Slicer software installed
- Dial caliper
- Marker
4 Steps To Calibrate
Note: A standard stepper motor needs 200 steps to complete a single rotation. Periodically the filament cable may slip or not the right amount of filament is being extruded.
Calibration Main Goal: To ensure the right amount of material to extrude, and this is what you're actually calibrating. Nothing more complex than this.
Extrude 100 mm Length of Filament
Extrude the first 100 mm of filament and measure the actual length that comes out. This will be the first starting point to know how much to calibrate E steps.
To do it correctly, please make sure the following:
- Preheat extruder nozzle
- Remove any previously used material first before extruding
Measure Actual Length
Use a dial caliper to measure the length and make necessary adjustments.
The printer should extrude out exactly 100mm.
Make Adjustments
- 20mm over means under extrusion, increase steps / mm setting
- 20mm less means over extrusion, decrease steps / mm setting
Repeat The Process For The 2nd Time
Repeat the step to check the consistency.