Speed Settings

Understanding Speed Settings

Speed settings in OrcaSlicer control how fast the print head moves during different operations. Faster speeds reduce print time but may affect quality, while slower speeds improve quality but increase print time.

Speed Categories

Initial Layer Speed

Speeds for the first layer - typically slower for better adhesion.

Other Layers Speed

Speeds for walls, infill, top/bottom, and other features.

Travel Speed

Speed when moving without extruding filament.

Acceleration

Control how quickly speeds change - affects quality and print time.

Speed Overview

Feature	Quality Priority	Speed Priority	Purpose
First Layer	20-30 mm/s	40-50 mm/s	Bed adhesion
Outer Wall	30-50 mm/s	80-150 mm/s	Surface quality
Inner Wall	50-80 mm/s	150-250 mm/s	Structural
Infill	80-120 mm/s	200-300 mm/s	Internal strength
Top Surface	30-50 mm/s	80-120 mm/s	Visible surface
Support	50-80 mm/s	100-200 mm/s	Removable structure
Travel	150 mm/s	300-500 mm/s	Non-print moves

Speed Limiting Factors

Volumetric Flow Rate: Your hotend's melting capacity limits actual speed
Acceleration: Higher acceleration needed to reach higher speeds
Cooling: Fast printing needs adequate part cooling
Mechanical Limits: Printer frame and motion system capabilities
Material: Some materials (TPU) require slower speeds

Pro Tip: Start with conservative speeds and gradually increase while monitoring print quality. Use OrcaSlicer's speed painting to slow down specific areas that need better quality.