The 80% Rule: Maximum layer height should not exceed 80% of your nozzle diameter. For a 0.4mm nozzle: max = 0.32mm. For a 0.6mm nozzle: max = 0.48mm.
Layer Height
Layer height is the thickness of each printed layer in the Z direction. This is the single most important setting for print quality and speed.
Setting Details
- Parameter Name
layer_height- Default Value
- 0.2 mm
- Typical Range
- 0.04 mm - 0.32 mm (for 0.4mm nozzle)
- Unit
- Millimeters (mm)
- Location in OrcaSlicer
- Process Settings → Quality → Layer Height
Understanding Layer Height
Layer height determines how thick each horizontal layer of your print will be. Think of it like slicing a loaf of bread - thinner slices give more detail but take more time.
Effects of Layer Height
| Aspect | Smaller Layer Height | Larger Layer Height |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Quality | Smoother, less visible layers | More visible layer lines |
| Print Time | Much longer | Significantly shorter |
| Detail Resolution | Better fine details | Less detail, rounded edges |
| Vertical Strength | More layers = stronger bond | Fewer layers, potentially weaker |
| Overhang Performance | Better overhangs | May struggle with overhangs |
Recommended Layer Heights
For 0.4mm Nozzle (Most Common)
- 0.08 mm (Ultra Detail): Miniatures, jewelry, highly detailed models
- 0.12 mm (High Quality): Visible display models, detailed mechanical parts
- 0.16 mm (Quality): Good balance of quality and speed
- 0.20 mm (Standard): General purpose, functional parts
- 0.24 mm (Speed): Faster prints with acceptable quality
- 0.28-0.32 mm (Draft): Rapid prototypes, internal parts
First Layer Height
The first layer height is often set separately and is typically thicker than subsequent layers for better bed adhesion.
- Parameter Name
initial_layer_print_height- Recommended Value
- 0.2 - 0.3 mm (regardless of other layer heights)
Important: A thicker first layer helps with bed adhesion but requires proper Z-offset calibration. If your first layer is too thin, it won't stick. If too thick, it will "elephant foot" at the base.
Variable Layer Height
OrcaSlicer supports variable layer height, allowing you to use different layer heights for different parts of your model:
- Adaptive Layer Height: Automatically adjusts layer height based on model geometry
- Manual Variable Height: Paint or define regions with different layer heights
This allows fine layers for detailed areas and thicker layers for simple geometry, optimizing both quality and print time.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Very rough surface | Layer height too large | Reduce layer height |
| Print taking forever | Layer height too small | Increase layer height for less critical models |
| Weak layer adhesion | Layer height near maximum limit | Reduce layer height, increase temperature |
| Under-extrusion on first layer | First layer height too thin | Increase first layer height or adjust Z-offset |