Bowden Tube

Also known as: Bowden, Bowden Extruder, PTFE Tube

intermediate Hardware

A tube that guides filament from a remote extruder to the hotend.

A Bowden setup uses a PTFE tube to guide filament from an extruder mounted on the frame to the hotend on the print head.

Advantages

  • Lighter print head - Faster acceleration possible
  • Less ringing - Reduced inertia artifacts
  • Simpler wiring - Fewer cables to print head

Disadvantages

  • More retraction needed - Long filament path
  • Difficult with flexibles - Filament buckles in tube
  • More pressure variation - Filament compresses
  • Tube wear - PTFE tubes need replacement

Retraction Settings

Bowden needs more retraction:

  • Distance: 3-7mm
  • Speed: 40-60mm/s

PTFE Tube Quality Matters

  • Capricorn - Premium, tighter tolerance
  • Standard - Works but more variation
  • Inner diameter affects filament play

Common Printers

  • Creality Ender 3 (original)
  • Creality CR-10 series
  • Artillery Sidewinder

Tip

Keep PTFE tube cut square and fully seated. Gaps cause clogs.