Extruder Clearance

Define the physical dimensions of your extruder for sequential printing mode.

What is Sequential Printing?

Sequential printing (also called "one at a time" printing) completes each object fully before moving to the next one. This requires OrcaSlicer to know your extruder's physical dimensions to avoid collisions with already-printed objects.

Extruder Clearance Radius

Parameter
extruder_clearance_radius
Unit
Millimeters (mm)
Default
45mm
Description
The horizontal radius around the extruder that must remain clear. This is typically the widest point of your print head assembly.
Measuring Tip: Measure from the center of your nozzle to the furthest point of your print head (fan shroud, cable management, etc.) and add a small safety margin.

Extruder Clearance Height

Parameter
extruder_clearance_height
Unit
Millimeters (mm)
Default
40mm
Description
The vertical clearance from the nozzle tip to the lowest point of the gantry or other components that could collide with printed objects.

Common Extruder Clearance Values

PrinterRadius (mm)Height (mm)
Bambu Lab X1C5540
Bambu Lab P1S5540
Prusa MK3S+4560
Prusa MK44560
Creality Ender 34055
Voron 2.45045

Sequential Printing Limitations

When using sequential printing mode, objects must be spaced apart based on clearance values:

  • Horizontal spacing: Objects must be at least 2x the clearance radius apart
  • Height limit: Objects taller than the clearance height cannot be printed sequentially
  • Print order: OrcaSlicer automatically determines the optimal print order
Warning: Incorrect clearance values can cause collisions during sequential printing, potentially damaging your printer or ruining the print.