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sure that each layer adequately bonds to the layer below it. If the layers do not
bond together well enough, the final part may split or separate. We will examine
several typical causes for this below and provide suggestions for resolving each
one.
9.1 Layer height is too large
Most 3D printing nozzles have a diameter between 0.3-0.5mm. The plastic
squeezes through this tiny opening to create a very thin extrusion that can
produce extremely detailed parts. However, these small nozzles also create
some limitations for what layer heights can be used. When you print one layer of
plastic on top of another, you need to make sure that the new layer is being
pressed against the layer below it so that the two layers will bond together. As a
general rule of thumb, you need to make sure that the layer height you select is
20% smaller than your nozzle diameter. For example, if you have a 0.4mm nozzle,
you can’t go too far past a layer height of 0.32mm, or each layer of plastic will not
be able to properly bond to the layer beneath it. So if you notice that your prints
are separating and the layers are not sticking together, the first thing you should
check is your layer height compared to the size of your nozzle. Try reducing the
layer height to see if it helps the layers bond together better. You can do this by
clicking “Basic” and setting “Layer height” in Cura. Please read “Cura Tutorial” to
learn more.