Nozzle
Also known as: Print Nozzle, Hot End Nozzle
The small metal tip through which molten filament exits to create the print.
The nozzle is the small metal component at the bottom of the hotend where molten filament exits. Its diameter determines line width and affects print quality, speed, and detail.
Nozzle Diameter
Standard nozzle diameter is 0.4mm. Other common sizes:
| Size | Use Case |
|---|---|
| 0.2mm | Fine detail, miniatures |
| 0.4mm | General purpose (default) |
| 0.6mm | Faster prints, less detail |
| 0.8mm | Very fast, draft prints |
| 1.0mm | Rapid prototyping, large prints |
Layer Height Rule
Layer height should be 25-75% of nozzle diameter:
- 0.4mm nozzle → 0.1-0.3mm layers
- 0.6mm nozzle → 0.15-0.45mm layers
Nozzle Materials
Brass
- Most common - Ships with most printers
- Good thermal conductivity
- Wears quickly with abrasive filaments
- Replace when worn (every few hundred hours)
Hardened Steel
- For abrasive filaments (carbon fiber, glow-in-dark, metal-fill)
- Lasts much longer than brass
- Lower thermal conductivity
- May need higher temps
Stainless Steel
- Food safe applications
- Lower thermal conductivity
- Moderate abrasion resistance
Ruby/Sapphire Tipped
- Extreme durability
- Excellent for abrasives
- Expensive but lasts indefinitely
Signs of a Worn Nozzle
- Inconsistent extrusion
- Larger-than-expected lines
- Under-extrusion symptoms
- Poor first layers
- Rough surface finish
Maintenance
- Cold pull to clean clogs
- Needle to clear debris
- Replace regularly with brass
- Check for wear after abrasive filaments